Furnace Smells You Shouldn’t Ignore

A strange smell coming from your furnace is enough to make anyone uneasy. From burning dust and wires to something more sinister, furnace smells can indicate a serious problem. If you notice an odd odor coming from the furnace, don’t just ignore it. Keep reading to learn more about the different smells and what they could indicate.

Metallic Smell

metallic smell in house that seems to be coming from the furnace is a cause for concern and should not be ignored. A metallic smell coming from your furnace could indicate that certain components, made from rubber or metal, are getting too hot and beginning to melt. In some instances, the wires inside the heating system may even be melting. If the wiring in the furnace is getting too hot or not functioning properly, it could cause a short circuit, which could lead to a fire. If you notice this kind of smell, turn off your furnace immediately to prevent further damage to your system. Once you do so, call an HVAC company for repairs.

Burning Smell

A burning smell coming from a furnace can be very concerning, as it can indicate a serious problem with the system. In some cases, the smell may be harmless and not require any action, but in other cases, it could be a sign of a more serious issue that requires immediate attention. If the smell is accompanied by smoke or visible flames, it is important to contact a professional immediately. If the smell is not accompanied by any visible signs, it is still important to be aware of potential causes and take action if necessary.

One common cause of a burning smell coming from a furnace is a dirty air filter. When the filter is clogged with dirt, dust, and other debris, the airflow is restricted and can cause the furnace to overheat. This can lead to an overheated blower motor, which can give off a burning smell. It is important to regularly check and replace air filters to prevent this from occurring.

Another possible cause of a burning smell is an electrical issue. Electrical problems can occur in a variety of ways and can cause the furnace to overheat. If a burning plastic smell accompanies a burning smell, it is important to turn off the furnace and contact a professional as soon as possible.

Finally, a burning smell can also indicate that something has become lodged in the furnace. Small objects such as paper, toys, or fabrics can become wedged in the furnace and cause the motor to overheat. If this is the case, it is important to turn off the furnace immediately and contact a professional to remove the object safely.

Chemical Smell

Chemical Smell

When you smell a chemical odor coming from your furnace, it is important to address the issue immediately. Chemical smells coming from a furnace are usually a warning sign that something is wrong and should be investigated. In some cases, the smell may be a result of a minor issue, such as a dirty filter, but in more serious cases, it may signify a malfunction in the furnace itself.

Furnaces can also produce chemical smells when they are not well-ventilated. If the furnace is in a small, enclosed area, the chemicals produced by the furnace can get trapped, creating a strong odor. To prevent this, ensure your furnace is well-ventilated and that the area around the furnace is kept clean.

Additionally, if you smell something like formaldehyde coming from your furnace, it could be a sign that you have a cracked heat exchanger. This is a dangerous issue that could result in the release of harmful carbon monoxide into your home. If you notice a chemical smell coming from your HVAC system, you should have it checked by a professional to determine the cause and to make sure it is safe to continue using.

Overall, furnace smells should not be ignored as they can signify a range of potentially hazardous issues, including electrical problems and malfunctioning components. Ignoring these smells can lead to further damage and costly repairs, so it is important to take prompt action if any strange smells are present.