Categories
- AC Filters
- AC Repair
- Air Conditioner Maintenance
- Air Conditioner Repair
- Air Conditioners
- Air Conditioning Services
- Air Quality
- Cleaning Tips
- Cooling
- Duct System
- Ducted Air Conditioner
- Ductless Air Conditioner
- Emergency Repairs
- Energy Costs
- Expert Help
- Fans
- FAQ
- Filters
- Fireplaces
- Fun
- Furnace Installations
- Furnace Repairs
- Furnaces
- Gas Fireplaces
- Gas Line
- Gas Line Installations
- Heat Pumps
- Heating
- Heating and Cooling
- Heating Contractors
- heating system
- Heating Technicians
- Humidity
- HVAC
- HVAC Contractors
- HVAC experts
- HVAC Noises
- HVAC professionals
- HVAC Repairs
- HVAC Service
- Insulation
- Maintenance
- Natural Gas
- Pestibulum molestieenean
- Saving Money
- Water
- Water Heaters
- Work
[BACK]
Why Does My Furnace Smell?
Posted On: October 31, 2024
If your furnace has an unusual smell, it could be caused by a variety of issues. Here’s a breakdown of common furnace smells and what they might mean:
1. Burning Dust Smell
- Cause: If the furnace hasn’t been used for a while (like at the start of winter), dust will often accumulate on the heating components. When the furnace is turned on, the dust burns off, producing a distinctive smell.
- Solution: This is usually normal and should go away within a few hours. If it persists, replace or clean the air filter and vacuum around the furnace.
2. Musty or Mildew Smell
- Cause: Moisture can build up in the ductwork, leading to mold or mildew growth, especially if the furnace hasn’t been used in a while or if there is a humidity problem.
- Solution: Have a professional inspect and clean your ductwork. Consider using a dehumidifier in your home to control moisture levels.
3. Electrical or Metallic Burning Smell
- Cause: An electrical or metallic smell can indicate overheating of furnace components, often caused by worn-out parts, faulty wiring, or even a blower motor that is burning out.
- Solution: Shut off the furnace and call a technician, as electrical issues can be hazardous.
4. Rotten Egg or Sulfur Smell
- Cause: This smell typically indicates a natural gas leak, as utility companies add a sulfur-like odor to natural gas to make leaks easier to detect.
- Solution: Turn off the furnace immediately, leave your home, and contact your gas company or emergency services.
5. Oil or Smoky Smell
- Cause: If you have an oil furnace, a smoky smell could indicate incomplete combustion or an oil leak. It may also happen if the air filter or burner is dirty.
- Solution: Shut down the furnace and have it inspected, as burning oil or smoke can cause health issues.
6. Chemical Smell
- Cause: A chemical odor could indicate a cracked heat exchanger, which might allow carbon monoxide to leak into the air.
- Solution: This is a serious issue. Turn off your furnace, open windows, and have a professional inspect it right away.
Preventive Tips
- Change air filters regularly (every 1 to 3 months).
- Schedule an annual furnace tune-up to ensure safe and efficient operation.
- Check for any obvious blockages or leaks around the unit.
If you’re unsure about the smell or if it persists, calling a professional HVAC technician is the safest option.
[BACK]
See What Our Customers Are Saying:
Jan 9, 2016
I was referred to Twintech by a neighbour and was not disappointed. Not only was the customer service excellent their workmanship was second to none. Greg and Grant work extremely clean covering the pathway to the furnace room, labeling the essential parts, left the area spotless and were efficient. They cleaned up the mess left by the previous installers (wiring, improperly installed AC coil, and gaps in venting etc). They also ran through the operation of the new furnace and gave me some maintenance tips. Greg and Grant are professional and all around good guys. I will definitely recommend their service to anyone without hesitation.
Dec 18, 2015
Very satisfied with service from Twintech , beginning with all the information provided by Dave , which helped make the decision much easier . Installation was very smooth & done on time as promised & cleanup was well done . Would definitely recommend this company & use them again for any future needs . Well done.
Sep 18, 2015
Twintech Heating & Cooling Inc. came in and replaced my 39 year old furnace with a beautiful Napoleon variable high efficiency furnace! Their work was efficient and professional and they were a pleasure to deal with, from sales to installation! I would highly recommend them.
May 6, 2015
After receiving numerous quotes to replace my old furnace and AC unit (which was 20 years old) I went with Twintech. Dave, in sales, answered questions professionally and promptly and worked diligently in order to secure my business. Installation was scheduled the week after and Greg and Peter showed up, as scheduled, and did a fine job installing both units. The site was left tidy and neat. I would highly recommend Twintech for your furnace and AC work.
Dec 17, 2014
I chose TwinTech because they installed my new furnace a few years ago and did a great job. When they installed my new A/C, they replaced all parts -- the copper pipes, the housing on top of the furnace and the wiring. (Apparently, the wiring for my old A/C was insufficient.) Their pricing was competitive. The sales representative came to see me within a few hours of my call. My new A/C was installed a few days later and I couldn't be happier with Twintech's professionalism and work. I would recommend TwinTech to any homeowner.
Feb 3, 2014
Had a great experience with this company. Great price and great customer service. You wont be disappointed with twintech. Discussed the job with Greg while he was installing who was extremely informative and obviously enjoys the work he does.
Mar 31, 2014
I needed my AC unit relocated due to upcoming landscape work. I reached out to the Twintech team through Homestars. Dave connected with me immediately to discuss the project and various options. We decided the best option was to mount the unit on the wall. Greg was in touch with me the same day as well and we scheduled the work for later that same week. This was a small job so I did not think I would get immediate attention. The Twintech team exceeded my expectations in every respect. They were very knowledgeable and friendly. The team arrived exactly on time on the scheduled day and worked efficiently to get the job done quickly. I would definitely use Twintech again for any Heating and AC projects.
Jan 1, 2015
I have used Greg Dainty for over 15 years in 3 different homes, for heating, cooling, pool heaters, appliances and bbq lines. Greg has always been so professional, friendly and the workmanship nothing short of fantastic. Greg has always discussed my options and fixing versus replacing, giving his honest opinion and what works best for me cost effective wise and long term. I have valued his opinion so much and have not trusted my gas needs with anyone since using him. I have also referred him to many of my friends and family and have always been so thankful with how well and quickly he looks after us all. I hold Greg in the highest regard and would recommend him to anyone with complete confidence!
Jan 1, 2015
Really nice honest guys. It was a pleasure to do business with a company that does exactly what they say theyre going to do! My basement was cleaner after they installed my new furnace and AC. Thanks again Greg and Grant and for doing such a great job.
Jan 1, 2015
5 star service!! I had twin tech install a high efficiency furnace and hot water tank at my home. I am taking time to write this review as a thanks for what I viewed as next level service that went above and beyond. Prior to installation they explained my specific options without pushy sales tactics and up front costs. Greg and Grant replaced a large portion of the duct work (built in their own shop) that had rusted over the years which resulted in a great looking job. It was a pleasure to work with people are passionate and take pride in their work. Following the installation they explained all aspects and maintenance of the new equipment. Products have worked flawlessly. Thanks again Greg and Grant! Highly recommend!!
Related Links:
oshawa gas furnace problems, ajax furnace inspection, whitby furnace replacement, furnace repairs pickering, oshawa hvac furnaces, pickering gas furnace problems, whitby furnaces, residential furnace, pickering hvac furnace, pickering furnace service, pickering furnaces, oshawa furnace inspection, oshawa furnaces, gas furnace problems, furnace services oshawa, furnace maintenance near me, furnace repair ajax, furnace repair pickering, furnace repair oshawa, furnace replacement, furnace repairs, furnace repair, furnace installations ajax, furnace installations pickering, furnace installations oshawa, furnace inspection,