What Do These 4 Furnace Odors in Calhoun, KY Mean?

When you first turn on your furnace in Calhoun, KY for the season, it’s likely to smell a little different. It’s important to be able to determine what’s a normal odor and what’s a potential warning sign. Here are four common furnace odors and what they mean.

1. Musty Odor

If you kick on your furnace and notice a musty smell, there’s probably mold growing somewhere in your HVAC system. The most common places for mold are in your ductwork and air conditioner coil. It’s best to call for HVAC maintenance as soon as possible before the problem worsens.

2. Rotten Eggs

A rotten egg or sewage smell is a serious cause for concern. This often means that natural gas is leaking from somewhere in your furnace. The heat exchanger may be compromised, or the gas valve may not be working properly.

Immediately turn off your furnace and call for emergency repairs. A furnace gas issue can leak dangerous amounts of carbon monoxide into your home.

3. Electrical Burning

An overheating furnace can create an electric or metallic burning odor. Over the years, your system’s worn-out bearings can seize up and cause additional electricity to build up in the motor. It can get so hot that wires and various parts begin to melt, creating a fire hazard.

4. Dusty Smell

This is one of the most common and normal smells you’ll likely experience. Dust will accumulate on and around your furnace over the summer months. When your turn your furnace on, this dust creates a mild and temporary odor as it’s burned away.

Monitoring your furnace for any odd noises or sounds is vital to protect your household. For help with any concerns about your heating system’s efficiency or safety, contact our team at E&M Heating, Plumbing & Air Conditioning for quality heating services in Calhoun, KY.

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