Winter has now arrived, and you likely feel thoroughly prepared. You have had extensive maintenance and service on your HVAC system to ensure your comfort and safety during the cold season. Unfortunately, like all machines, your HVAC system can malfunction regardless of how much maintenance you have given it. One of the issues that indicates a problem with your HVAC system is an unusual odor.
If you are noticing an odd smell coming from your vents and this is bothering you, you may need to have your heating system evaluated again.
Hillsborough HVAC: Understanding Strange Odors In Your Home
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Unusual odors are always a cause for concern, as they typically indicate that something is wrong with the system. The following are a few of the problems that may cause such odors and the best way to address each issue:
Is There A Sewage Odor Coming From The Air Vents?
A raw sewage stench coming from your vents can be very unpleasant. This odor is typically always a sign that something is wrong with the unit. You may have a backed up sewer line or a crack in your plumbing system.
A forced-air system will spread this odor throughout your home. If you close the ducts in an attempt to stop the smell, it will likely still spread. Furthermore, closing vents in your home will cause your heater to strain, resulting in higher than average energy costs.
If you are experiencing this problem, it is essential to understand that repairing it is not a good DIY project. Instead, you should contact a professional to remedy the issue.
HVAC System: Mildew Or Mold Odors
A moldy smell coming from ductwork is something that many people do not take seriously. However, because mold and mildew can cause serious health problems, such odors should never be ignored. Your best course of action is to contact a professional HVAC contractor as soon as you notice a mold odor. Experts have the skills and experience to pinpoint the source of the smell and immediately deal with the problem.
Burning Odor From Your Heating System
If your vents are putting out a burning smell, it may indicate a mechanical problem in your heating system. Finding out the cause of the smell is the first thing you should. After verifying that nothing is burning or on fire, the heating system should be checked. If the smell seems to be coming from your heater, it may be an overheating or faulty fan. It is not a good idea to take a chance and attempt to make the repairs on your own. Instead, contact a professional HVAC contractor.
Animal Odors Coming From The Vents
Unfortunately, sometimes a rat or small rodent dies in a building cavity or somewhere in the ductwork, which can result in a foul stench coming from the direction of your vents. The smell can be carried to different parts of your home if you do not address this issue as soon as possible. Because this situation is inconvenient and unpleasant, immediate action is imperative. You can replace the filter, but this may not work to eliminate the smell. If you still are experiencing this odor, call an expert to pinpoint where the animal may have died, dispose of it, and clean the area.
Do You Detect A Rotten-Egg Smell?
If you have a gas-powered heating and cooling system, a stench of rotten eggs is a significant sign of danger. Gas leaks typically smell like rotten eggs. You should open all windows and immediately exit your dwelling. Call your gas company at once and asked them to come without delay to identify the precise leak location.
Causes Of Sulfur Odors From Your Heater
If you smell the odor of a freshly struck match or a sulfur-like odor, it is typically an electrical mechanical failure within your heating system. It may be a circuit board shorting out or a similar problem. Although this may not be as serious as a gas leak, you should not take any chances. Small electrical or mechanical issues typically lead to bigger ones if they are not immediately addressed. Therefore, contact an HVAC specialist to save time and money.
Final Considerations
Unusual smells from your HVAC system are typically a sign that something has gone wrong. Contact an expert immediately if you notice any of the odors outlined above. Doing this is the most effective way to make sure your heating and cooling system continue to work efficiently.
Skylands Energy is a trustworthy HVAC company that offers a full line of heating and cooling services. Our technicians are NATE-certified and can efficiently complete any repairs that you need.
At Skylands Energy, we offer top-notch HVAC system repairs, replacements, installations, and tune-ups. Our qualified contractors have the expertise to provide you with the most affordable services available. Call us today, and we will not hesitate to offer a free, in-home estimate and help you with all your HVAC needs.
Some of the areas that we service include Bridgewater, Hillsborough, Raritan, Somerville and these zip codes 08807, 08844, 08869, 08876 as well as all surrounding areas in Somerset County, New Jersey.
Contact us now at (908) 707-1776 to find out more!