Hello World! Welcome Friends! As the weather turns colder, you head to your thermostat to turn on your heater for the first time this season. But as soon as it kicks on, an unpleasant odor emanates from the vents. What is that smell coming from your heating system, and is it something to worry about? Here’s more about the various scents you may smell coming from your heater from an Olympia heating and cooling company.
Dust or Dirt Buildup Can Cause Odors
When a heating system hasn’t been used for months, dust and dirt can accumulate inside the ductwork or components. As air starts circulating again, particles get pushed through the system and a musty or dusty smell emerges. If the odor isn’t overpoweringly strong, try running the system for a few hours to clear out the debris buildup causing the smell. Replace air filters as well if they’re overly dirty.
Burnt Dust or Belt Smell
Sometimes a more unpleasant burning odor will occur when you first fire up your furnace or heat pump. This often results from dust burning off a component like the blower motor belt or electric heating coils when the system initially switches on after sitting idle. Let the system run to burn off any accumulated particles, which should resolve the smell after some time.
Gas Odor Indicates a Safety Concern
If you have a gas furnace and detect a rotten egg or sulfur smell when your heat turns on, that suggests a gas leak somewhere in the system. Gas leaks are extremely dangerous, so you need to take action right away. Open windows to ventilate, turn off the gas valve that supplies your furnace, exit the home, and call your gas company or the fire department immediately. Do not use any electrical switches or your phone inside, as these could cause a spark and ignite leaking gas.
Burning Plastic Scent Means Electrical Issue
Sometimes, when a blower fan motor or other electrical component starts wearing out, you’ll notice a smell reminiscent of burning plastic when the system first activates. This likely means an internal part is overloaded and getting too hot. Shut down your heating system and set up a service call, so technicians can identify and replace the failing part before more serious and expensive damage is done or a fire hazard occurs.
Strange Organic Scent Could Mean Mold
If firing up your heater results in an earthy, musty aroma, mold growth inside the ductwork might be the culprit. Duct systems can become damp and accumulate mold spores when not circulating air for an extended time. The mold then gets transmitted through the home when the heating system activates. This is concerning since mold exposure can cause respiratory issues and allergic symptoms. Have a technician inspect the ducts for cleaning or antimicrobial treatments to get rid of the contamination.
Animal Nest or Vermin Infestation
Critters can sometimes find their way into ductwork, air handlers, vents, or other parts of a heating system. So, if an animal-like smell arises when you turn on the heat, it likely means a squirrel, bird, mouse, or other unwelcome guest has gotten trapped or built a nest. Check vents and openings for any signs of intruders. You may need duct cleaning or repairs to remove nesting material and debris if that’s the cause of the odor.
When Professional Assistance is Needed
While some smells related to dust buildup, unusual activity, or minor electrical issues may resolve on their own or require basic maintenance, unusual or very strong odors warrant a service call. Gas leaks, burning smells, mold growth, or critter infiltration all mean your system needs inspection by a qualified technician to identify any required repairs, replacements, or cleanings. Don’t hesitate to pick up the phone and call a trusted Olympia heating and cooling company for urgent assistance.
Click the links below for any posts you have missed:
Your Trusted Heating & AC Contractor in Scottsdale, AZ: Comprehensive Home Maintenance Guide
The Hidden Dangers of Ignoring Stucco Damage: Why Remediation is Crucial
Why Choose a GAF-Certified Roofing Company for Your House
Saucing It Up: 4 Effortless Healthy Sauce Recipes for Every Dish
Exploring the Endless Possibilities of Embroidery Services
I’d love for you to join my email list! You’ll receive a notification straight to your inbox which will include links to my latest home project posts! Simply enter your address below.
Thanks for stopping by! Have a wonderful day/night depending on where you are in the world! Go with God and remember to be kind to one another!
Toodles,
[…] What Is That Smell? Learn Why Your Heater May Smell and When to Call in a Heating and Cooling Profes… […]