Having an issue with strange smells coming from your furnace? It’s important not to ignore those funky furnace odors. Unusual smells emanating from your furnace often mean there’s a bigger underlying issue. Identifying the specific odor and understanding what it signifies can help you determine if there’s a problem with your unit that may need Beaverton furnace repair.
That Burning Smell Means Trouble
Ever catch a whiff of something burning coming from the furnace? Stop what you’re doing and call an HVAC pro right away. A burning odor usually means there is dust, lint and other debris burning inside the furnace. If the smell is very strong, it likely signifies electrical wiring damage or a cracked heat exchanger. Both are extremely hazardous. The burning could quickly escalate to a fire, resulting in extensive home damage or even injury to your family. Shut the furnace off immediately when noticing a burning smell until a technician inspects it.
Foul Odors Signal Gas Leaks
Does it smell like rotten eggs or sulfur around the furnace? Or do you notice an especially foul, almost sewage-like stench? These nausea-inducing smells typically mean there’s a gas leak from the furnace. Gas leaks allow dangerous carbon monoxide to seep into your home, causing poisoning, severe sickness and even death in some cases. If anyone in the household starts feeling ill when the furnace runs, suspect a gas leak. Ventilate the home and get everyone to safety. Then, call an HVAC pro to detect and seal any leaks before running the furnace again.
Mildew Odors Mean Dirty Air Filters
Catching a strong musty, mildew scent from the vents? That may mean mold and mildew are growing on the furnace air filter. Dirty filters provide the perfect damp, dark place for mold to flourish. Breathing in mold spores can cause allergic reactions, asthma attacks, and other respiratory issues. While your first instinct may be to simply replace the filter yourself, have an HVAC technician inspect the furnace first. Mold buildup often means condensation is dripping somewhere inside the unit, signaling potential problems needing repair.
Oil Smells Signify an Internal Leak
Notice an odor akin to an auto garage coming from the furnace? This oil or diesel fuel smell likely means there is an oil leak inside the unit. The oil burner nozzle or an internal seal might have cracks allowing oil to drip over hot surfaces. Combustion gases then carry the smell throughout house vents. An internal oil leak negatively impacts furnace performance and efficiency. Left unaddressed, leaks could result in potential carbon monoxide poisoning or furnace failure. Call your local HVAC company to diagnose the leak source and repair it before running your furnace again.
Strange Smells Warrant Professional Assessment
If you notice an indescribable or strange smell coming from the furnace, don’t try pinpointing it yourself. Unfamiliar odors suggest complex mechanical issues best assessed by professionals. There could be a refrigerant leak if you have air conditioning or heat pump system. Burning circuit boards or electrical faults can also emit peculiar smells. Don’t take chances trying to decipher unfamiliar furnace odors on your own. Contact certified HVAC technicians to fully evaluate the issue and properly service your system. Safety should be the top priority when dealing with unusual furnace smells.
Always err on the side of caution if your furnace starts emitting odd smells. Hire reputable specialists with proper diagnostic tools and expertise. They can accurately assess situations, identify root causes and take appropriate corrective actions. Protect your home investment and family safety by relying on qualified HVAC professionals for furnace smells and other heating issues this winter.