A couple of months ago, the HVAC unit in my home started malfunctioning. The temperature inside my home soared to over eighty degrees Fahrenheit, even though my air conditioning system ran nonstop. After inspecting my air conditioning unit, my knowledgeable HVAC contractor recommended I purchase a new system. He discussed the pros and cons of installing different sizes of HVAC units with me. After considering my HVAC contractor’s advice, I decided to purchase a three and a half ton HVAC unit. Shortly after my HVAC contractor installed my new air conditioning unit, my house started feeling more comfortable. On this blog, I hope you will discover how an HVAC contractor can help you select the right air conditioning unit for your home. Enjoy!
When your HVAC is running, you should not notice any odd smells coming from the system. If you do notice a scent when the HVAC is on, you need to identify the source of the smell and have it repaired. Not all smells mean something is wrong, but some scents can be dangerous. Here is what you need to know if your HVAC system is smelly:
What Are Some Common Smells That Come From an HVAC Unit?
There are some common smells that can occur within an HVAC system. Most of these smells are easy to identify and can be fixed with little issue. A mildew smell, for example, is a common smell that can come from an HVAC. This happens when there is a lot of water buildup in the system because of poor drainage. This problem can often be resolved with a professional cleaning. A rotting or garbage scent can occur in an HVAC system if a rodent, bird, or small animal got trapped in the system and died. You will need to call your HVAC technician to have it removed and cleaned.
Some HVAC systems can smell smokey if the previous homeowners smoked in the home. Smoke fumes can get trapped in the evaporator coil and need to be cleaned to get rid of the smell.
What Smells Need Immediate Attention?
You may notice some additional smells coming from the HVAC that can be concerning and need to be dealt with immediately. If you smell oil, there may be a loose fitting on the tank oil line. It could also be coming from a malfunctioning oil burner. A burning smell should also be checked right away. It may indicate a mechanical problem in the system. If you notice a burning smell around the components of the HVAC and can see where the problem may be, then you need to call your HVAC technician to see what is wrong. Not only can this damage your equipment, but it could result in a potential house fire.
You may also notice a smell that resembles sewage. This can happen if your sewer line is near your ductwork. This smell is a result of methane. You need to call both a plumber and an HVAC technician to determine where the issue lies. The methane can leak into your home and cause major medical problems.
If you notice any type of smell when you turn your HVAC system on, the best thing you can do is have it professionally checked. You never want to risk damage to your HVAC system or health problems stemming from an HVAC.
Contact a local AC service to learn more.
Share