Why Does My Furnace Smell? Four Odors that Your Furnace Can Produce

It’s true some people neglect their furnaces all summer and expect them to heat our homes without a problem and run flawlessly throughout winter. However, this unacknowledged hero of heat that many of us rely on each year in Michigan can emit some unsettling odors. These uncanny smells, ranging from burnt to gassy to musty, could signify a minor or severe problem. Understanding the nature of these odors is crucial to ensure the safety and comfort of your home this winter.

Here is a list of smells your furnace could potentially make, ranked on a scale from one to four. One being the least serious and four being the most serious.

1. Burning Dust Smell (Slight Issue):

If you don’t have routine maintenance performed on your furnace and you’ve just started your furnace after a long hiatus, a common and typically harmless smell is that of burning dust. This happens due to the dust accumulating on your furnace burners or heat exchanger throughout the year. This smell typically dissipates after a few hours and usually doesn’t warrant concern. However, it’s best to always check your furnace to be safe.

Solution:

Avoid the burning dust smell by getting your furnace cleaned and have regular maintenance on your furnace performed. Regular cleaning will ensure the components are clean and functioning and that dust accumulation is avoided, alleviating the potential risk of something burning in your home.

2. Mildewed or Musty Odor (Minor Issue):

A consistent and musty or mildewed odor can signal the existence of mold or mildew in your furnace or ductwork. While it’s typically less harmful, prolonged exposure can impact indoor air quality and pose health risks. These health risks can range from shortness of breath to coughing and, in severe cases, respiratory tract infections.

Solution:

Luckily, there are a few solutions to combat this musty odor. First, Investigate if your filter is clogged and dingy. If so, you should think about replacing it. Second, If you notice that the smell is still persistent when you turn on your furnace, you should consider having your furnace and ducts professionally cleaned—that will usually solve the issue. In extreme cases, you may need to purchase a dehumidifier.

3. Electrical Or Metallic Smell (Moderately Issue):

If you detect a sharp, metallic, or electrical odor, it could mean parts of your furnace, like the rubber belt or insulation, are overheating or burning. While not an immediate threat, it could lead to significant damage if left unaddressed.

Solution:

Turn off the furnace and give your local, professional HVAC company a call to diagnose and repair the issue promptly.

4. Rotten Egg Smell (Sever Issue):

The unquestionable and pungent odor of rotten eggs is a clear sign of a gas leak. Natural gas is odorless, but suppliers add a chemical called mercaptan to give it a detectable smell for safety reasons.

Solution:

Evacuate the premises immediately and contact your gas company or emergency services. Avoid igniting any flames or using electrical appliances until the leak is resolved. If you have the ability and from a safe location, turn off your furnace via your mobile app.

Know Your Smells:

Furnaces, essential for comfort during the colder months, can sometimes emit concerning odors. It’s crucial to be able to identify whether these smells, be they burning, musty, metallic, or gassy, are characteristics of minor inconveniences or severe hazards. Regular maintenance and timely intervention can prevent potential mishaps and ensure a comfortably warm, odor-free home throughout the winter.

In all of the cases mentioned above, if you have doubts about the smells your furnace emits, you should seek professional advice. A well-maintained and functioning furnace is not just about comfort; it’s about safety, ensuring that you and your loved ones can stay warm and secure throughout the winter months.

Are you experiencing funny smells from your furnace? Don’t ignore them! Call us at (517) 225-4556 or book online today, and let our team of experienced professionals help you restore comfort and safety to your home.