What Furnace Odors Mean

If the heater uses natural gas and emits a rotten egg smell, open all the windows and immediately evacuate the home.

Though heating systems are essential for most households, they're also one of the leading causes of house fires. When heating systems are used frequently during the cold months, it's essential to identify odors that the heating unit may emit to know if they cause worry. Consider the following common heating system odors to know what to do should they arise.

Burning Odor

A burning smell could be caused by dust in the furnace or a clogged air filter. This usually occurs when the furnace hasn't been used in a while and dust has gathered in the combustion chamber. The air filter may also need to be replaced if it is dust-filled. Another cause could be melting debris in the ductwork. A slight burning smell on the first day of using the furnace for the winter is normal, but call a professional as soon as possible if the smell persists.

Sulfuric Odor

If the heater uses natural gas and emits a rotten egg smell, open all the windows and immediately evacuate the home. This means there is a gas leak, and an explosion could occur. Once evacuated, call the fire department right away.

Musty Odor

A musty or damp smell could mean mold in the furnace or its ductwork. This smell might mean the condenser pump needs a good cleaning. Collecting water and dust in the condenser pump can cause mold to grow. If the home still smells musty, mold could grow elsewhere, so it's best to call a professional.

Electrical Odor

A furnace that smells like hot metal or a burning iron can mean various things. This could mean there is a loose electrical connection or that there's a mechanical malfunction. A dirty air filter can also be the root of the smell by restricting the airflow and causing the heater to overheat.

Oil Odor

This smell usually means an oil leak or the oil burner is malfunctioning. Luckily, leaks are easy to spot; look on the floor around the oil burner for oil drips.

Unusual odors coming from the furnace should never be ignored. While these odors often indicate an overall harmless problem, sometimes the issue could be deadly. When in doubt, always call a professional HVAC technician to help assess the issue, as it's never worth the health and safety of the family or the home to leave these problems up to chance.

Just in Case Mechanical offers residential and commercial plumbing, sewer, water softener, electrical, lighting, and HVAC services Lancaster County. Call us today at (717) 696-1511.