Weird HVAC Smells and What They Mean

If you’ve been experiencing strange smells emitting from your home’s heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system. And are wondering what that could mean, don’t worry; you aren’t alone! A lot is happening behind the scenes at your home, which you probably don’t think about too often. However, it is crucial to understand what these smells mean, so you know when to call a professional for AC repairs in Roswell, GA

Here are some of the most ordinary smells your AC should not be making.

When Your HVAC Smells Like Dirty Socks

You might notice a musty odor from your HVAC system when it’s turned on. This smell is caused by high humidity levels in the air in your home. When moisture mixes with dust and dirt in your ductwork. It leads to mold growth and creates a musty smell that can be unpleasant.

To avoid this problem, ensure that your filters are clean. And that there are no leaks or cracks in them or anywhere else in the system. In addition, it’s essential to have your ductwork regularly inspected for signs of mold or mildew growth and to have it cleaned if anything is found. The same goes for your HVAC unit itself. If there is any visible mold or grime on the unit, call a professional for AC service in Roswell as soon as possible.

When Your HVAC Smells Like Burning Dust

If it only gives off a burning smell temporarily, then it’s likely just burning off dust built up in the unit. However, this smell can also indicate something more serious, including a wiring issue, an issue with an electrical component, or even a mechanical problem with the compressor.

Don’t ignore the problem if you notice this smell when you turn on your HVAC system. Instead, call an expert to inspect and clean these areas, ensuring there’s no damage to your system over time.

When Your HVAC Smells Like Rotten Eggs

If you smell rotten eggs in your house, it could signify a gas leak or another dangerous leak in the system. Propane and natural gas have no distinctive odor on their own; rather, they are tainted with a smell comparable to rotten eggs, making highly combustible leaks easier to detect. If you smell gas in your home after turning on your air conditioner, that’s not normal—there’s a problem with your HVAC system.

Leave the house immediately and call an HVAC professional for emergency air conditioner repair in Roswell and surrounding areas. Do not try to fix it yourself. Our mechanics will diagnose the issue and repair it for you.

 

When Your HVAC Smells Like Chemicals

If you detect a chemical-like scent from your heating system, the heat exchanger may have cracked, requiring immediate repair. Turn your HVAC system off right away. A cracked heat exchanger is a major threat that might result in a poisonous carbon monoxide leak in your home. Call JE Mechanical HVAC, Corp for AC repairs in Roswell, GA, immediately if you notice this type of smell coming from your HVAC system.

When Your HVAC Smells Like Fish

If your AC smells like fish, it could mean an oil leak in one of the components of your system. This issue should be addressed immediately as it could further damage your system if not repaired. In addition, an oil leak can be a fire hazard. If you notice this smell coming from your AC, turn it off immediately and call for air conditioner repair in Roswell, GA.

When Your HVAC Smells Like a Metallic Burning 

The smell of burning metallic material from your AC or heating system may be a sign that something is wrong with your system’s electrical components. It could also indicate that one of your electrical connections has become loose and is grounding somewhere in the system.

Make sure to turn off your unit immediately and contact a professional for AC service in Roswell. Do not try to fix this problem yourself. Our technicians will be happy to come out and take a look at your system to determine what’s causing the smell and make the necessary repairs.

Regardless of what kind of smell your HVAC emits, JE Mechanical HVAC, Corp can take care of it before it becomes a major problem. To get a free quote on our air conditioner repair services in Roswell, call 470-558-0529.