Common Furnace Smells and Sounds You Shouldn’t Ignore

Your furnace will often give off some key signs if it’s having issues, and these are often found in the realm of furnace smells and sounds. Which sorts of noises and odors from a furnace might signal problems, and how can you interpret and react to them?

At Thompson’s Comfort Connection, we’re here to help with furnace maintenance and repairs for clients around Salt Lake City, Draper, Cottonwood Heights, Midvale, Sandy, Riverton, and nearby parts of Utah. Our team will assist with every part of this process, including identifying issues in your furnace. Here are some examples of furnace smells and sounds that often serve as indicators of problems in this component, plus what they might be telling you and how to manage them.

Burning Dust Smell

One of the only examples of a notable, unusual smell coming from the furnace that typically is not a sign of a problem is a burning dust smell. This can be common at the start of the heating season when your furnace has been dormant for several months and accumulates dust buildup. As it starts running again, this dust burns off and creates a smell that is similar to burning plastic or rubber. In most cases, this smell will dissipate on its own after a short period of use and does not require any action.

However, if this smell persists or gets worse over time, it could indicate that there is an issue with your furnace’s air filter. A clogged or dirty air filter can restrict airflow and cause the furnace to overheat, leading to a stronger burning dust smell. In this case, it’s important to replace the air filter and get your furnace serviced by a professional to prevent potential damage.

Another possible cause of a burning dust smell could be an electrical issue. If you notice a burning smell that resembles burnt wires or plastic, it’s important to immediately shut off your furnace and call a professional for help. Electrical issues can pose serious fire hazards and should be addressed promptly by a trained technician.

Rotten Egg Smell

A smell you should definitely be concerned about from your furnace is a rotten egg or sulfur smell. This type of smell usually indicates a gas leak, which can be extremely dangerous. If you suspect a gas leak in your home, it’s important to evacuate immediately and call your local gas company for assistance. Avoid using any electrical devices or open flames until the source of the leak has been resolved.

Gas leaks from furnaces can be caused by a variety of issues, such as faulty connections, damaged valves, or even clogged vents. It’s important to have regular maintenance checks on your furnace to ensure that all components are functioning properly and there are no potential hazards.

Furthermore, it’s important to be aware of the signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, which can occur if there is a gas leak from your furnace. Symptoms include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. If you experience any of these symptoms while using your furnace, it’s important to evacuate the area immediately and seek medical attention.

Musty Smells

In other cases, musty smells from your furnace can indicate the presence of mold or mildew. This can occur if there is excess moisture in your furnace, which can lead to the growth of these harmful substances. It’s important to address this issue as soon as possible, as mold and mildew can cause respiratory issues and other health concerns.

To prevent musty smells from your furnace, make sure to regularly change your air filters to keep them clean. You should also have your furnace inspected and cleaned by a professional on a regular basis to ensure that there is no excess moisture buildup.

Rattling Sounds

If you hear rattling sounds coming from your furnace, it could be a sign of loose or damaged parts. This can lead to malfunctions and potentially dangerous situations, such as gas leaks. It’s important to have a professional inspect and repair any rattling noises coming from your furnace.

For instance, a loose blower fan or motor can cause rattling sounds and may require tightening or replacement. Ignoring these noises can result in further damage and costly repairs.

Banging Sounds

Down related lines, banging sounds coming from your furnace can also indicate a problem. This could be caused by a dirty or clogged burner, which can lead to delayed ignition and cause small explosions within the furnace. It’s important to have this issue addressed immediately, as it can not only damage your furnace but also pose a fire hazard.

Another possible cause of banging sounds is a cracked heat exchanger. The heat exchanger is responsible for transferring heat from the furnace to the air in your home. If it becomes damaged, it may release carbon monoxide into your home, which can be extremely dangerous for you and your family. If you suspect this is the cause of the banging noises, turn off your furnace and contact a professional right away.

At Thompson’s Comfort Connection, we’re here to help with all your furnace maintenance needs around SLC, Sandy, Midvale, Cottonwood Heights, Draper, Riverton, and nearby areas, including help with identifying problems via furnace smells and sounds. Contact us today for a thorough inspection and any necessary repairs or maintenance to keep your furnace running smoothly and safely!