Why Your Furnace in Stafford, VA, Stinks

The warm air that comes from your furnace during the cold months in Stafford, VA, gives you a pleasant feeling. However, if it brings along unpleasant odors, it can be quite annoying. Understanding the reason behind why your furnace stinks is important to address so that you can eliminate the problem.

Smoky Odors

The first odor you should act fast on is smoke. Smoke coming from your furnace can be due to a blocked chimney or an electrical problem.

If the smoke is due to a blocked chimney, it means there’s an obstruction — debris, animals or nests — preventing the exhaust gases from escaping properly. An electrical problem such as a short circuit or damaged wires can also cause smoke to come out of your furnace.

Rotten Egg Stink

Next up is the rotten egg smell, which is often a sign of a gas leak. Natural gas has no odor, but gas companies add mercaptan to give it a distinct smell for safety purposes. If you detect this odor, promptly switch off your furnace and contact a professional for immediate assistance.

Musty Smell

Lastly, the growth of microorganisms in your furnace’s ductwork can cause a musty smell. This can happen due to moisture buildup from a leak or high humidity levels, creating the perfect breeding ground for pathogens.

Harmless Odors

Certain smells are harmless but still need prompt attention. One of these is a dusty or burning smell, especially if it occurs when you first turn on your furnace after a long period of non-use. The accumulation of dust in the heating system is often the culprit. You can also replace the filter to ensure the furnace has access to clean air.

The sole purpose of a furnace is to enhance comfort and safety in your home. It shouldn’t have smells that are out of the ordinary. If your furnace stinks, call Brennan’s Heating & Air Conditioning for a heating repair or tuneup.

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