As you prepare your home for the colder months, turning on your heating system for the first time can sometimes release unexpected and unpleasant odors. At Howell Chase, we want to help you understand what these unusual smells mean and how to address them, ensuring your HVAC system is ready to keep you comfortable all winter long.
1. Burning Dust Smell
A burning smell when first turning on your furnace is quite common and usually nothing to worry about. During the warmer months, dust can accumulate on the heat exchanger and other components of your heating system. When the furnace is activated, the dust burns off, creating that distinct odor.
What to Do: If the smell disappears within a few hours, it’s likely just dust burning off. If it persists, you may need a professional cleaning of your system.
2. Musty or Moldy Smell
A musty or moldy odor can indicate mold or mildew growth in your ductwork or HVAC system. High humidity levels during the summer months can encourage mold growth, which can spread when you turn on the heat.
What to Do: Contact Howell Chase to schedule an HVAC inspection to remove mold and prevent poor indoor air quality.
3. Electrical or Burning Plastic Smell
If you smell burning plastic or an electrical odor, it could indicate overheating components, worn-out wiring, or an electrical malfunction in your HVAC system. These smells are serious and should not be ignored.
What to Do: Turn off your system immediately and contact Howell Chase for an inspection. Electrical issues can be dangerous and may require urgent attention.
4. Rotten Egg Smell
A rotten egg or sulfur smell is a warning sign of a natural gas leak. This smell is added to natural gas to alert homeowners to leaks, as gas itself is odorless. Gas leaks are a serious safety hazard.
What to Do: Evacuate your home immediately and call your gas company or emergency services. Do not attempt to turn on or off any electrical devices, as this could ignite the gas.
5. Chemical or Oily Smell
If you notice a chemical or oily smell when turning on the heat, it may be a sign of an oil furnace malfunction or a gas leak. This odor should not be ignored and requires professional attention.
What to Do: Turn off your system and contact a professional HVAC technician for an inspection.
Preventing Unusual Odors with Regular Maintenance
Regular maintenance is key to preventing odors and ensuring your HVAC system operates safely and efficiently. Schedule a fall tune-up with Howell Chase to have your system thoroughly inspected and cleaned before the cold weather hits. This will help remove any dust, prevent mold buildup, and catch potential issues before they become major problems.
Trust Howell Chase to Keep Your Home Safe and Warm
If you experience any unusual smells when turning on your heat, don’t hesitate to contact Howell Chase Heating and Air Conditioning. Our team of certified technicians will inspect your system, address any issues, and ensure your HVAC system is ready to keep you comfortable and safe all winter long.
About Howell Chase
Howell Chase provides reliable HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair services with a focus on safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. Whether you need a fall tune-up or emergency repairs, our experienced technicians are here to help. Contact us today to schedule your HVAC service and enjoy a warm, worry-free winter!
