Decoding Furnace Smells in Your Aiken, SC, Home

When you turn your furnace on and smell something unusual in your Aiken, South Carolina, home, decoding what that smell means is important. Some smells are harmless and can easily be eliminated by the homeowner. You can remedy burning dust and musty smells, for example, by cleaning the filters and the area around the furnace cabinet. However, if you smell any of the following, turn your system off immediately and call our expert heating repair service technicians right away.

Chemicals

A chemical smell similar to formaldehyde is an indication that there is a problem with the heat exchanger. A broken heat exchanger is a serious issue and a potential fire hazard. In addition, a leaking heat exchanger can emit the carbon monoxide.

Rotten Eggs

Since natural gas is odorless, gas suppliers add a sulfur-like smell to it to make detection of leaks easier. If you smell sulfur or a rotten egg smell, there may be a gas leak in the system. If you smell this, turn off your system and call our experts right away.

Electrical Burning

Metallic or burning wire smells indicate that components of your furnace are overheating. Never ignore this type of burning smell. Overheated wires or parts can cause a fire and irreparable damage to the furnace. Turn the it off and wait for professional repair.

Smoke

A clogged flue will burn and send smoke into your home. Burning electrical wires will also send smoke inside. If you smell smoke from your furnace, turn it off immediately. If the smoke is excessive, get out of the house and call the fire department.

As soon as it is safe, we will be there to fix the issue that caused the fire. Investing in a preventive maintenance plan will ensure that issues with your system are fixed before they become a dangerous and expensive problem.

Call our professionals at Plunkett Heating & Air to fix any furnace problems. We’re ensure your heating system operates as it should at peak efficiency.

Image provided by Bigstock

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