Why My Heater Smell?

As a homeowner, you’re bound to experience abnormal indoor smells every now and then.

But if you notice an odd scent coming from your heater, you’ll want to investigate it as soon as possible.

Otherwise, you may find yourself dealing with some costly damages!

The professionals at Abel Air Services strive to keep your HVAC system in excellent condition.

Smelly air may seem like a far-fetched problem, but it’s one that should be taken seriously!

Our team has compiled a guide to different heater smells and when to call for a heater repair in Virginia.

Why Does My Heater Smell?… And The Meanings

Your furnace can produce a variety of odors, some of which are worse than others.

Identifying the cause of the smell can be an overwhelming task, both for you and your nose! Certain aromas indicate different issues.

A few typical smells to look out for are:

Burning May Indicate A Buildup Of Dust

You don’t use your heater often during the warmer seasons. As a result, the lack of operation can cause dust to accumulate on your system.

If you smell burning after a long period of inactivity, don’t stress! When you power your system on for the first time in the winter, the debris will burn off, creating the smell.

Musty Odors Are A Sign Of Mold Growth

Mold thrives in areas that are warm and moist. Unfortunately, this makes your HVAC system an ideal breeding ground for the fungus.

Long-term mold exposure can cause numerous health issues if not corrected, a few of which are:

  • Asthma triggers
  • Respiratory issues
  • Chronic headaches
  • Irritation of eyes, skin and nose
  • Fatigue

You may want to inspect your heating system and ductwork if you smell a mildew-like odor.

Mold spores can contaminate your heating and cooling system while harming your household’s indoor air quality.

A professional can remove the mold growth and ensure it does not infiltrate your HVAC system.

A Rotten Egg Scent Is A Gas Issue

When it comes to your furnace, a rotten egg smell is one of the most dangerous aromas. This situation signals an issue with the gas and can potentially mean a gas leak is present.

Natural gas is odorless, but manufacturers insert the scented chemical to warn homeowners if there’s an issue.

If you smell rotten eggs, you should leave your home immediately and call emergency services.

Mechanical Smells Signal An Electrical Malfunction

A mechanical aroma is usually a sign something is wrong with your heater. There may be an issue with your wiring, motor or other components.

Regardless of the problem, wear and tear may gradually increase the need for repairs. A professional can repair or replace broken parts, keeping your unit in good condition.

Contact Us For High-Quality Virginia Furnace Maintenance

Is there an abnormal scent coming from your furnace?

You can count on Abel Air Services to find the source of the problem!

Our team of professionals is prepared to help with any of your HVAC needs. Call us today to speak with a customer service representative and schedule your repair service!