How Come My Furnace Has a Smell?

Don't freak out if you smell something strange coming from your furnace! This issue isn't usually accompanied by a serious issue. Many times, it can be explained by some regular events. Nevertheless, it is always better to be safe than sorry. It's important to identify any probable causes if your furnace emits a strange smell.

Before you take a look, make sure your heater is off. Here are a few potential causes of the burning odor in your home.

1. Dust Transmission

Dust burn-off can cause the scent of a furnace that is too hot. The dust has probably accumulated inside your furnace if you haven't used it in a while. After your furnace has operated for a few minutes, this smell should go away.

Try a different approach if the odor doesn't disappear. Apply a brush to the areas that are within your reach. This strategy will remove any dust.

2. Blocked Filter

Your furnace blower may occasionally emit a burning smell if your filter is old. The filter in your furnace can eventually clog up if you don't replace it. Your blower must work harder to push air out due to this buildup. It may consequently become too hot. During this process, the accumulation may also give off a burning stench.

When that happens, it's time to change the furnace's filter. Prior to use, compare the filter's capabilities for efficiency. If you keep smelling a certain scent, you need to get help from a professional.

3. Gas Leak

It is preferable to turn off your furnace right away if you smell sulfurous odors like rotten eggs. This smell frequently denotes a gas leak, which may occur as a result of a malfunctioning ignitor. Your furnace may also contain broken components.

In any situation, you must turn off your furnace and contact a professional HVAC technician. It's crucial to contact them if you have any suspicions of a problem, and you should never overlook a gas leak.

Unknown Objects

Do you detect the smell of burning plastic? Your furnace might have been invaded by a strange object. It might be any tiny plastic object. In either case, you must immediately shut off your furnace when you detect this odor. A foreign object may interfere with the operation of your furnace. Also, because many plastic items are made with harsh chemicals, it's best not to breathe in plastic fumes.

Overheated Circuits

There can be a metallic smell. This smell frequently indicates an electrical issue, such as an overheated circuit board. When your furnace becomes too hot, it should turn off on its own. If it doesn't, one of its safety features aren't working properly. When you suspect a major mechanical problem, you should consult a professional. A furnace that doesn't shut off when it gets too hot is dangerous.

Refrain from using your furnace until a professional can identify the problem for you.

Utilize Our HVAC Repair Guide to Getting Rid of Burning Furnace Smells

Your furnace's issues can be found and fixed by our specialists. Contact HVAC Repair Guide if you live in Northern Virginia for high-caliber, dependable services. We can resolve the situation so that you and your family can live in a secure and wholesome atmosphere.