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Why Does My Furnace Smell?

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Why Does My Furnace Smell?

Posted On: October 31, 2024

Why Does My Furnace Smell?

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.



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by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very pleased with the installation of our new furnace and A/C unit. From quotation stage to the completion of the job Twintech was very professional.
Thank you for a job well done.

by Darren, Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

My old water heater quit on me. I called TwinTech. In less than 4 days, I had my new water heater installed and the old one taken away. The whole process was quick, easy, pleasant, and well done. This is the third time I've dealt with TwinTech and I've been satisfied each time.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I had them replace my furnace last year. When it came time for the air conditioner this year, I did not hesitate to call Twintech again. I will also have them perform regular maintenance on them.

by Robert, Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We required a new HVAC replacement after running the old
system for 18 years.
Dave understood our requirements and gave us a quote that
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Installation was fast and very tidy. Everything works as
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by John Armstrong, Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I needed a new furnace and A/C to replace my 21 yr. old units, and went to the internet to view potential companies in May, I received 3 quotes,
and chose Twintech based on their salesman Dave who was very detailed and covered off everything on what Twintech was all about,
an extremely dedicated company with so many years of experience, and after reading the on line reviews I was sold on Twintech, who did not disappoint as the installation team were top notch with Greg leading,
I would highly recommend this company without any doubts, in my books they are first class all the way. Our new Amana furnace and A/C are working perfectly !

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Flawless transaction. They did exactly what they promised, showed-up on time, cleaned-up, and were highly professional. Highly recommended.

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Salesperson and 2 man installation team were all professional and
knew their stuff. All three were friendly and helpful, answering all
my questions. The quality of their work demonstrated their experience
and expertise in their field.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

A dear late cousin of mine recommended this company and I have been happy with the service.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We are very pleased with the work done by Twintech. They were very professional from start to finish. Dave came to our home and gave us a very competitive quote for new high efficiency furnace and air conditioner. The installers were very courteous and professional. We would highly recommend them.

by W1n5t0n1987! on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Great experience getting an old furnace replaced.
Sales Guy (Dave) was great - honest, responsive, and friendly.
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by Aaron on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We are very happy to recommend this company to everyone. Our furnace broke down on Sunday morning. We phoned them and before noon Grant the owner showed up. He worked on the furnace for about a hour not wanting to give up to fix the problem. The furnace was 17 years old. I was the one talking about replacing it. End result was the next day it was all done. On the Sunday Bob came over with heaters to warm up the house. We decided to replace the water heater at the same time. Thanks Grant for the excellent work. Thumbs up.

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Right on time. Explained how to work the HRV in a different way so the house would not be so dry. Changed my whole house water filter for me as well. Friendly, helpful, caring service!

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Very pleased with the professional service that TwinTech Heating and Cooling provided in replacing my furnace. I got several quotes from different service providers. Their price was excellent and they explained the features very well. We are very glad we went with TwinTech and highly recommend their services.

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We were new homeowners in need of a second opinion. TwinTech Heating & Cooling were Amazing and professional. Very knowledgeable and great service all around. Recommend to anyone looking for honest and reliable services. Treated with respect and care. Thank you Greg, Mitch and Bob!

by Ruth on Twintech Heating and Cooling

TwinTech is an excellent and honest company! I called them for a second opinion after being told by another company that I needed to replace my furnace. Turns out this was not the case at all! I did not need a new furnace. TwinTech did not push to make an unnecessary sale and saved me from a huge expense. Bob and Mitch were extremely professional and above all honest! I definitely recommend TwinTech!

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