Why Does Your Furnace Smell When You Turn It On?

November 01, 2016

The temperatures are decreasing here in Des Moines and that means soon we’ll be relying on the comfort of our furnaces. This is typically the time we receive several furnace repair calls from our clients concerned about a unusual smell escaping from their furnace. If it’s been a few months since you’ve run your furnace and you smell something strange, stay calm. There’s most likely nothing to worry about and there are several reasons your furnace might smell strange.

Last winter was maybe the last time you’ve had to run your furnace. For most of the year, dust may have accumulated inside of your furnace. Starting up your furnace for the first time will burn that off, leaving a smell. This smell will move through your home throughout your duct work. This generally isn’t a harmful circumstance and the odor will not last long. Although, if the smell doesn’t go away after a brief time, you’ll want to call in an expert to inspect your system.

Another possible cause of strange smells coming from your furnace is a congested air filter. A clogged filter will cause your blower motor to run harder which could cause the motor and/or your furnace to overheat.

You’re better safe than sorry and if there are any odors coming from your furnace the team at Kohles & Bach Heating & Cooling in Des Moines are ready to check things out and set your mind and nose at ease.

You’re going to be relying on your furnace more and more these upcoming months, if you haven’t yet, it is the perfect time to get your regular furnace repair scheduled. Our certified technicians will get all those internal components cleaned and checked out to ensure your system will run efficiently and without troubling smells this Des Moines winter. Get an appointment scheduled by calling us at 515-207-6569.