4 Common Furnace Smells & What To Do About Them

If you’re trying to keep warm during the winter and notice an abnormal odor from your furnace, you shouldn’t ignore it. If you want to ensure your furnace is always in the condition to meet your heating needs, any off-putting smells should be addressed immediately.

To determine the source of the smell, it’s best to familiarize yourself with common furnace odors; doing so will give you a better idea of what route to take for repair. Below, we discuss some typical furnace smells, what they can mean for your system, and what to do about them.

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Typical Smells From Your Furnace: Explained

When it comes to your furnace, no smell is a good smell. If you happen to smell an odor that concerns you, it’s essential to have it inspected and fixed as soon as possible, as this likely indicates an issue with your system. Below are some of the most common smells your furnace can produce and what they typically mean:

Burning Smell

It’s normal to smell a burning odor when you kick on your furnace for the winter. When you ignite your system, your unit will burn the dust and dirt away that built up over the spring and summer. This scent should not persist, however. If it does, it can indicate the furnace or blower motor is overheating, and interior parts such as wiring may fray or melt.

Sulfur or Rotten Eggs

An odor that’s sulfurous or reminiscent of rotten eggs can be very unpleasant and can lead to disaster if not addressed immediately. This smell indicates a natural gas leak that can stem from various things, so shutting off your unit and contacting a professional is essential. Some symptoms you may experience from a gas leak include dizziness, headaches, eye irritation, nausea, and vomiting.

Musty Odor

If you smell a musty odor from your unit, it’s good to address it ASAP. Musty smells often indicate mold and mildew resulting from a leaky unit, which can significantly impact your home and your health, especially if circulated through your home’s ventilation system. 

Car Exhaust

Improper ventilation can lead to smells like car exhaust. Your furnace requires proper ventilation to remove the gases formed during combustion. Without an efficient vent pipe, the gases will flow back into your home and can be dangerous to your health.

What To Do if You Notice Unusual Smells

No matter the smell, you should immediately shut your system off and contact a professional for help. The Grapids Home Services team is here to help with prompt, professional furnace repair services. When you have an issue with your unit, our solutions are designed to get it back up and running to restore comfort, convenience, and safety to your home.

Schedule Furnace Repairs With Grapids Home Services Today

Grapids Home Services has delivered exceptional furnace services to our West Michigan community since 1999. Our licensed, insured, and background-checked technicians service all HVAC makes and models. We also provide upfront pricing and free estimates on installations.

We offer same-day repair services for issues that can’t wait, and we’ll never charge you overtime. Additionally, we offer financing options and a range of specials and promotions for added assistance.

Let our team guarantee that your furnace is running efficiently so that you can return to your daily life. Schedule furnace services with our team today!