Understanding The Smell Coming From Your Furnace
Winters in Winder are cozy and uplifting, from the crisp chill in the air to the city’s seasonal festivals. Your heating system is vital for maintaining and enhancing this comfort, especially when temperatures nearly reach freezing. However, there may be an instance when you notice an odd or unpleasant odor when it runs.
While some smells are harmless, others could indicate an issue that needs immediate attention. Absolute Comfort Air specializes in Winder heater repairs to address unusual smells from their HVAC systems.
Common Causes Of A Weird Smell Coming From Your Furnace
If you’ve noticed an unusual scent coming from your heating system, several factors could be responsible. We address common smells below and the reasons why your system is producing them.
1. Burning Odors
A burning smell often isn’t a cause for concern unless it lasts more than an hour. Long-term burning odors can indicate wiring problems within the system. Clogged air filters can also restrict the flow of air, causing the blower motor and other components to overheat. Regular furnace maintenance can identify these issues before they occur, preventing the aroma.
2. A Musty, Moldy Smell
If your unit smells damp or musty, there may be mold growth in the system or ductwork. This often occurs due to excess humidity and poor ventilation. Routine HVAC maintenance and professional duct services can help prevent this issue from recurring.
3. Electrical, Plastic Burning Odor
Picture this: You’re spending a cool day indoors, wrapped in a cozy blanket, when the smell suddenly hits you. The odor leaves you questioning, “Why does my furnace smell like burning plastic?” It may be due to overheating components, a failing blower motor or foreign objects inside the system. Turn off your unit immediately and call our team if you notice this smell.
4. Rotten Egg Or Sulfur Smell
An intense sulfur or rotten egg-like smell is a sign of a potential gas leak. Natural gas is odorless, but utility companies add a chemical that serves as an odorant to help detect leaks. If you notice this aroma, turn off your heater, leave your home and contact your gas company right away.
5. Chemical Or Formaldehyde-Like Smell
A chemical-like aroma can have various causes. The odor can indicate a cracked heat exchanger, refrigerant leak and more. These issues require prompt repair services from experts like Absolute Comfort Air. If you suspect a problem with your unit, reach out to our team for prompt assistance from experts who care!
Why Your Heater Smells Like It’s Burning When First Turned On
When you turn on your heater for the first time in the cooler season, it may produce a burning smell. This issue happens when dust accumulates on the internal components during periods of inactivity. As the system heats up, the dust burns off, causing a temporary odor that should go away within a few hours.
However, if the odor persists or worsens, there could be a more serious problem. Monitor the smell and call our team for professional repairs if it lasts for more than an hour or so.
When To Call For Professional Heater Repair
While some HVAC odors are harmless and temporary, others require immediate action. If your furnace smells like burning plastic, rotten eggs or chemicals, it’s best to shut off the system and contact a Winder HVAC technician from Absolute Comfort Air.
Routine maintenance and filter replacements can help prevent many odor-related issues from developing in the first place. We’re proud to serve residents in Barrow County and the surrounding areas.
Absolute Comfort Air: Providing Heater Repairs In Winder, GA
If you’re experiencing a strange smell coming from your heating system, the team at Absolute Comfort Air is here to help. Our experienced technicians provide expert assessments, maintenance and repairs to keep your home safe and comfortable. Contact us today to schedule a service and ensure your unit is in top shape!
