Odours Your Furnace Can Produce and What They Indicate

technician checking furnace

A furnace is absolutely necessary for any home heating system, mainly because it will be utilized extensively during the winter months. While it generates heat, it might malfunction from time to time. One example is when it emits odours that it shouldn’t.

There are several reasons why a furnace may emit unusual odours. Sometimes, the smell is merely caused by the home’s heating system. It’s usually the consequence of a furnace problem that has to be rectified. Regardless, it should not emit odours and should be repaired as soon as possible.

This article discusses some of the most prevalent scents a furnace should not emit and how to remedy them. 

Smoke from a Failed Motor

If the smoke comes from your furnace, you will almost certainly be able to identify it. A smoky odour is not something you should be seeking from a furnace.

Depending on the origin of the smoke, cleaning the filters and ensuring that all soot is cleared from the gas burner, flame tube, and heat exchanger may be simple solutions. If the reason for the smoke is a faulty motor, you should get it repaired by a specialist.

Burning Dust Odours from Overheating

Furnace overheating is frequently the cause of an odour that smells like burning dust. This might be due to a malfunctioning motor or a blocked filter.

The simplest solution is to get the air filter cleaned. It would be best if you still inspected your furnace to verify that no dust is being drawn into it.

The Smell of Rotten Eggs from Your Gas Burner

Fumes emitted by the gas burner mainly cause the stench of rotting eggs. This scent is typical after turning off the gas valve, although it should not be an issue in the first place.

The odour can be eliminated by inspecting the gas valve and burner assembly. If the condition persists, you should seek expert assistance.

Foul Sewage from a Blocked Drain Line

Various circumstances might cause a nasty sewage stench or anything similar. It can occur due to a clogged drain line, a pump malfunction, a broken gas safety shutoff, a clogged filter, and other factors.

In most situations, cleaning the drain pipe will eliminate the odour. If, on the other hand, the stench remains and the case is not as simple as a clogged drain, you should contact a specialist to resolve the issue.

Mould in the Vents

Mould is a serious issue that must be treated immediately. One of the first symptoms of mould growth is the odour it emits. Even if you can’t see the mould, it’s a good idea to have a professional examine the heating system to ensure no mould is forming.

Mould might form on the vent or in the ductwork. The fungus can grow due to the heating system being kept in an overly damp environment. To avoid mould formation, make sure the environment is dry.

Metallic Smells from a Bad Motor

If your furnace emits a metallic odour, there is most certainly an issue with the engine. A faulty motor might cause this issue. If it isn’t, it might be the result of something else.

The issue with a defective motor is that it might overheat and burn out. A refrigerant leak can cause this. The burning refrigerant might provide a burning odour. In this scenario, it is advised that you contact a specialist to resolve the issue for you.

Conclusion

There are a few smells that can indicate problems with your furnace. A burning smell could mean an oil or gas leak, while a musty smell could tell that the furnace is not venting correctly. If you notice any of these smells, it is essential to have your furnace checked by a professional as soon as possible to avoid further damage.

Are you looking for gas furnace prices in Canada? Climate Experts installs, services, and maintains all major brands of furnaces and air conditioners. Request a free estimate today!

How Your Air Conditioner Can Improve Indoor Air Quality

You may not think much about your home’s indoor air quality. Consider for a moment how much dust is collecting throughout it. If it’s summer, there is likely to be allergens like pollen coming into the home. You could even have mold growing in areas you have no idea about just yet. While there are numerous ways to improve your home’s air quality, one way to improve conditions quickly is to ensure your air conditioner is operating at its best. If you need repairs on your air conditioner, Whitby residents should know not to put them off because of these reasons.

Humidity Control Is a Big Deal

One of the most important ways your air conditioner can help with home comfort and health is to focus on humidity control. Humidity is moisture that is in the air. On hot summer days, you may feel it the most. It can be high at any time of the year, but the summer months tend to be the most common, along with any really rainy days.

Humidity is not a bad thing. You need some moisture in the air to keep your skin comfortable and not dry. However, too much humidity leads to mold buildup. The moisture in the air can saturate the softer surfaces in your home, such as carpeting or drywall. In areas where it is warm, dark, and consistently wet, mold is likely to grow quickly.

By running your air conditioner, you can pull out a lot of that moisture, minimizing the risk that mold is present. Removing that moisture can help to reduce the risk of mold and mildew spreading throughout your home, which can be dangerous for anyone’s respiratory health.

Removing Allergens

Most air conditioners are not air cleaners. That is, they are not going to remove all of the dirt and debris from your home. However, if you keep the air filter clean, they will help pull out a lot of the allergens that are present. Just by running your AC, you could reduce at least some of the buildup of particles in your home (like dust and pollen). This can help your home to have a bit better quality of air, which is important for anyone that has a loved one with allergies.

Your air conditioner can also work alongside an air cleaner. If you have people in your home with serious allergies, pollen-related allergies, or asthma, it may be beneficial to add an air cleaner to your home. That is something a professional can help you with.

Let Our Team Provide You With Air Conditioner Guidance

If you have not had your air conditioner inspected in the last year, now is the time to schedule it. Have maintenance performed on it to help ensure that all components are working at their best. Your air filter may need to be changed as well. Keep your air conditioner in Whitby working its best.

When you call Climate Experts Heating & Cooling, our team will ensure your air conditioner is working at its very best, ensuring your air is as clean as possible. Ask us about indoor air quality, too.

What Are the Benefits of a Ductless Air Conditioner?

A ductless air conditioner or ductless mini split system may be just what you need to finally enjoy cool air in your home with consistency. These are affordable air conditioning solutions ideally suited for many types of homes. You can use them throughout your home or for specific areas of the home that may not have a ducted system accessible. If you are thinking about ductless installation, Ajax property owners may want to consider the benefits it can offer.

#1: Affordability

When considering all options for heating and cooling your home (many ductless systems do both), you may be looking for something that is truly affordable. Though costs differ based on the model selected and your home’s specific layout, many people will find that it is far less expensive to add this solution than to seek out a central air system for the home. It is also more affordable to run, in most cases than placing window units in numerous areas of the home.

#2: Non-Invasive Installation

If the thought of installing ductwork into your home sounds scary, the good news is ductless installation does not require this type of invasive work. Rather, the system allows you to install a reliable air conditioner without having to open up numerous walls and do a lot of repairs. Also, if you decide that you do not need it or you move to a whole home air conditioner, the ductless installation is highly reversible and even easy to do.

#3: Better for Allergy Sufferers

A simplified installation process is one way that a ductless system can prove to be better for those who have allergies. Additionally, without any ducts running through the home, there are fewer ways for dirt and debris to spread through the home. That means that you have less dust throughout your home and better breathing quality as well.

#4: Lower Energy Bills

Depending on what you have now, a new ductless system is going to be far more inexpensive to operate than other models that are running inefficiently right now. These systems have a notable amount of energy efficiency. The cooled air does not have to travel through numerous ducts. Your home benefits from cleaner air and lower bills.

#5: It’s Easy to Maintain

There are not a lot of things you have to do to maintain the ductless system. Just follow the maintenance requirements set by the manufacturer. You may find that you still have to have an annual inspection to ensure it is running properly. It is also wise to have your system’s air filter cleaned routinely. Yet, most people find it is easy to put this type of system in place and then use it reliably.

Let Our Team Offer a Custom Consultation

When it comes to ductless installation, Ajax residents can count on us to provide exceptional solutions that fit your home. At Climate Experts Heating & Cooling, we have ample experience with ductless air conditioner installation, repair, and maintenance for most makes and models. Call us for an appointment.

When Should You Replace Your HVAC?

Your home’s HVAC system is one of the biggest and most valuable components of your home. It operates in the background where you do not think much about it. Yet, over time, it may become more obvious that there is a problem, and you may be wondering if it is easier to just replace the HVAC system or if you should continue to make repairs. If you need repairs for your HVAC, Durham Region property owners can always call a technician to inquire about your options and the pros and cons of replacement.

Common Indications It Is Time to Replace Your HVAC

There are a few common instances in which replacing your HVAC may be the best decision for you. It is always worth considering the cost of a new system based on the cost of repairs and upkeep of the current model. Keeping that in mind, consider a few reasons why you may wish to replace it now.

It’s Older

If the home’s heat pump or air conditioner is over 10 years old, it may no longer be efficient. There are likely other options on the market that can operate at a much lower energy level. Sometimes, those savings can be 20 percent or more. If your furnace is more than 15 years old, that may also indicate that it is time to replace it. Some newer models may be as much as 15 percent more efficient than older models.

Frequency of Repairs

If you are making repairs to your heating and cooling system on a consistent basis, that is also an indication that you may wish to make repairs. These costs are likely to continue unless your technician can find an underlying problem beyond normal wear and tear causing the problem.

You Have Humidity Problems

The air conditioner should work to remove most of the excess moisture in the area, such as on hot, humid days. If that is not happening, your home could be at risk for mold. It could be a good time to replace your air conditioner if it is no longer running properly or efficiently.

The System Isn’t Keeping Your Home Comfortable

Another common problem occurs when the air conditioner does not provide reliable air quality throughout the home. You may have some areas that are too hot or too cold. If that is occurring, it could be because your current equipment simply does not have the power it needs to properly cool or heat your home. A new system may mean higher BTUs but also better efficiency as well.

Your System Isn’t Working the Way You Need

When it comes to your HVAC, Durham Region property owners need to keep a close eye on it to ensure it is properly maintained. It plays a role in the health and comfort of your home. If you suspect a problem, do not wait to have those concerns inspected. This may be a good time to ask your technician if it is time for a replacement.

At Climate Experts Heating & Cooling, our team can work with you today to ensure your new system is in place as needed. Contact us for an appointment.

 

 

Create a Schedule for Air Conditioner Maintenance

Would an air conditioner maintenance checklist help you? No matter what time of the year it is, your air conditioner (and often your furnace, too) are large systems that require careful consideration and maintenance to keep them operating properly. If you are unsure what steps you need to take to maintain your system, this checklist is sure to help you. Keep in mind that when it comes to air conditioner maintenance, Pickering homeowners can turn to a trusted technician to handle the entire process.

Before the Season

In the early part of spring and heading into summer, it is important to create a plan for maintaining your air conditioner. During this type, you need to consider the following steps:

  • Be sure your thermostat is working, replace batteries if needed, and set the temperatures. Do this now to help ensure that your system is ready for high heat.
  • Inspect all electrical connections. It is not safe for homeowners to do their own electrical work. However, you should inspect all electrical components now so that you can schedule repairs to any damaged or faulty electrical components. This could be a fire risk.
  • Check the condensate drain. This drain can become clogged, which can lead to water backup. That can also impact the amount of humidity present.
  • Lubricate all parts. All moving parts of the air conditioner need lubrication, according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This helps minimize friction in the motor that can cause damage.
  • Control system inspections are needed. Your goal here is to ensure they are operating reliably and safely.

Monthly Tasks

Each month when you are using your air conditioner, it is helpful to engage in routine maintenance. A few simple things to do include:

  • Change or clean the air filters in the system. This can help to significantly improve your overall air quality while also reducing efficiency costs.
  • Listen to the system run. If it is making strange sounds or not operating the way it should, it may be time to make some changes.
  • Keep the evaporator and condenser coils clean. Monitor them throughout the year to ensure nothing gets caught within them.
  • Check your heating and cooling bills. If your costs continue to rise because you are using more energy, that could indicate that it is time to have a professional out to do the repairs.

Have a Professional Inspection Annually

Many of these tasks you can do as a homeowner. However, a professional inspection from a licensed professional is critical to have completed at least one time a year. This way, you may be able to minimize the need for repair calls and potentially extend the life of the system by catching problems early on.

Call to Schedule Maintenance with Our team

You do not have to do all of this work yourself. You can get air conditioner maintenance in Pickering to help you get your system back to working at its best in no time. Let us set up a time to come to your home for an annual maintenance appointment, or we can tackle the problems you’re having. Call us to set up a time.

 

 

Ready to Invest in an Air Conditioner for Your Home?

If your home does not have central air, and you are thinking about making the investment in an air conditioner, there are a number of things to keep in mind. Most importantly, you want to make sure you are buying the right air conditioner and having a professional install it according to the manufacturer’s requirements. As you think about the installation of an air conditioner, Durham Region residents need to consider the overall goals they have for a new system.

Buying the Right Air Conditioner

The easiest way to ensure you are getting the right air conditioner is to allow a technician to make recommendations for you. Without a doubt, you want their insight and wisdom to help you choose the best air conditioner for your home based on its size and overall features.

A technician understands what your home needs. They also have a working knowledge of various types and brands of air conditioners. If you want to know which brand to consider, one of the easiest things to do is simply ask the technician which is most reliable and least likely to need repair.

Upgrades to Your Home

Your technician can also talk to you about any upgrades necessary to your home for your new air conditioner. You can go with a ductless model if your home does not have ductwork. It is often too expensive to add ductwork to the home unless you are currently doing significant renovations at this point.

Still, your existing system may need repairs to the existing ductwork before the new system is put into place. Other times, you may need to upgrade your electrical system to manage the higher demand for power.

Get Your Warranty in Place

If you just buy an air conditioner and plan to install it, keep in mind that your warranty may be limited. Some air conditioners require a licensed technician to install the system.

In all cases, you want to know what the warranty is and what it covers. It may not cover all aspects of making repairs to your system. Some manufacturers also require you to document the annual maintenance on your system to ensure the warranty remains in place.

Get Smart

While you are installing a new air conditioner, now may be a good time to add a smart thermostat to help control it. Often, the addition of a thermostat is necessary to ensure proper control over the system. A smart thermostat allows you to control your system from a distance, giving you the ability to turn it on and off, update the temperature, or check the current temp in the home even if you are across town.

Investing in a New Air Conditioner in Durham

If you need an air conditioner, Durham Region property owners can trust Climate Experts Heating & Cooling to provide comprehensive care and attention to your needs. Let us offer recommendations on the best brands as well as the overall features best suited for your home.

Common Mini Split Repairs That Require Attention

Many times, a mini split system is going to provide years of good function and reliability, keeping your home comfortable while it does so. It is not uncommon for there to be a need for repairs, though. Oftentimes, these systems, which do not have ductwork, need a bit of consistent care to ensure they are running at their best. When they fail to work or they begin to develop problems, it is helpful to have a repair technician out to inspect and troubleshoot the problem. If you need mini split repair in Toronto, don’t put it off.

Common Problems

The following are some of the most common reasons for mini split repair. If you are experiencing these problems, schedule repair.

#1: New, louder sounds

You may notice that the system seems to be running louder than it used to. Most of these systems are very quiet when operating at their best. If you hear a clicking sound, that could be the plastic housing expanding, which isn’t a problem. However, if you hear gurgling or a cracking sound, that could be due to ice buildup. Pay attention to these sounds. If they sound different, that’s a reason to get repairs.

#2: Water dripping

If your system is not draining water properly or is dripping, that could be an indication there is a problem with the condensate drain. Other times, the drain line itself could be clogged. It could be clogged with debris, but it is somewhat common for mold buildup in this area to occur as well. This causes the water to backup into the system. Don’t put off this need for repair.

#3: Not blowing cold air

When you use your mini split system, it should blow consistent, cool air. If it is not doing that, it may have a refrigerant leak. In some situations, it may be due to a clogged filter. However, if there is no cool air, that typically means there is no refrigerant present.

#4: Smells and odors developing

Another potential concern is the development of strong odors coming from the system. If there is a musty or mildew smell, that could be due to mold development in the system. You may also experience a sweet smell. That could be an indication that the refrigerant is leaking at some point. If you smell a stronger, burning scent, that could be related to your electrical system.

#5: It does not turn on

It is not common for a mini split system to just not turn on or to turn off and on several times. If that is occurring, it could be due to a more significant level of damage to the system or the electrical system. You will need a repair technician in this situation.

Calling a Technician Can Ease Your Mind

Getting mini split repair in Toronto is easy to do. With the help of the team at Climate Experts Heating & Cooling, you can rest assured your system can be back up and running in the most efficient manner possible. You do not need to put off these repairs. Call us instead.

Signs You Need Ductless Repair Soon

Do you have a ductless air conditioner that may not be working the way you want and need it to? It may be time to consider ductless repair in Oshawa. Your ductless system can be a highly reliable system, and with good maintenance and upkeep, you may not need a lot of repairs over time. However, as soon as you start to see problems, it is best to call a professional for repair before the problem worsens. Here are a few examples of when this needs to be done.

The Controls Are Unresponsive

One indication that it is time to get some help for your system is when the controls on the device are not responding to you or are no longer reliable. If the system fails to respond when you turn it on or off, or the controls are simply not registering, that may be an indication of a need for repairs related to the electrical components.

Grinding Noises

It is sometimes common to hear your ductless system running. However, if you notice a change in the way it sounds, especially if you hear a grinding sound, it is necessary to consider repairs. The grinding sound often means that the bearings need to be oiled. They could be creating a significant amount of motor friction, which can lead to damage to your system over time.

Higher Energy Bills

When you turn on your ductless air conditioner, that is going to pull more energy. However, if you notice bills are climbing month over month, that often means that there’s a bigger problem at play. Your system may be losing efficiency, especially if it is over 10 years old. If your unit is younger, there could be problems with the air filter, or some of the components may be failing.

It’s Cooling But Not Enough

You may feel like your home does not get cool enough. In other cases, you may feel that the system is working harder even though the air temperature does not seem to be improving. This can often occur due to a leak in the refrigerant, or it may be that the air handler fan is not operational. It is critical to get help for this sooner as it can worsen over time.

Ice Formation

Though less common, it is possible that ice will begin to form on the outdoor components of your air conditioner. This is often due to a clogged filter. However, a nonworking fan, refrigerant leak, or even a dirty coil can lead to this. Do not put this repair off as it can typically cause a significant amount of slow down and energy overconsumption, leading to higher bills.

Getting Repair Help Is an Option

For ductless repair, Oshawa residents can count on our team at Climate Experts Heating & Cooling. We will work closely with you to determine the underlying cause of the problems you are having. We then make recommendations to help you determine the best way to improve functionality all summer long.

5 Benefits of Air Conditioner Service

Why should you request air conditioner service in Whitby if your system is working just fine? Many people put off calling in an HVAC contractor until there is a problem. While they should be your go-to provider if you are having any type of problem, they can also offer a number of benefits for routine, annual maintenance, and upkeep. Consider a few of the most important reasons to call for service now.

#1: Annual Maintenance Keeps You System Operational

On the hottest day of the summer months, your air conditioner may be so taxed that it stops working. You and your family are suffering. This could be avoided in many cases with annual maintenance. This allows your technician to inspect the system, ensure it is working properly, and address any concerns present before they become a problem. It could mean you do not need costly repairs in the middle of the season.

#2: Extend the Life of Your System

The cost of a new air conditioner can be very expensive. With routine maintenance, you can extend the life of your system. That means you do not have to replace it too soon. For many homeowners, extending that time can prove beneficial to your budget.

#3: Reduce Energy Use

Most people want to reduce energy consumption. The less you use, the better it is for the environment. A system that is well maintained on a consistent basis is less likely to need excessive amounts of energy. That is good for the planet. At the same time, it is also great for your budget. You do not want to spend more money to cool your home than you need to. A properly working, efficient system helps you spend less to keep your home more comfortable.

#4: Keep Moisture at Bay

High humidity levels in some areas are common in the summer months. Too much humidity in the air means too much moisture buildup, which can lead to mold and mildew growth. When your air conditioner is working at its best, it does a great job of removing excess moisture from the air. That means your home is less at risk for mold problems brought on by high humidity levels.

#5: Create a Comfortable Environment

Your air conditioner service can also help to ensure your system is working to properly create consistent, comfortable, and cool air. If you do not maintain your system consistently, the air in your home could be too cold in one area and too hot in another. It may be inconsistent throughout the day. You may need a new thermostat to help with regulation, too. That is something that can be done as a part of a service call as well.

Schedule an Air Conditioner Service Call in Whitby Today

If you have not done so yet this year, set up air conditioner service in Whitby by giving our team a call. Climate Experts Heating & Cooling can be there to help you with any needs and provide advice on how to keep your home comfortable and cool all summer for less.

Why Is the AC Running But Not Cooling?

If your air conditioner is not operating properly, it could be time to call in a technician. One of the most common reasons to do this is when your air conditioner is running – you can feel air coming into the room through the vents – but the home isn’t getting cool. There are a few potential causes for this. If you are experiencing it, it is beneficial to call a licensed technician for air conditioner repair in Ajax instead of trying to make the repairs on your own.

Why Isn’t It Cooling?

There are a few potential causes for the home not to get cool even though the air conditioner is getting power and seems to be operational.

Air filter: One of the most common problems is a very clogged air conditioner filter. Make this the first thing you check. If air cannot get into the system, it cannot push enough air into the home. The system will continue to try to operate, but over time, it may begin to fail. If replacing the air filter helps cool the home, that is the right place to start.

Blocked condenser: Another potential problem is that the outdoor condenser unit is blocked. A blocked or clogged condenser coil cannot pull in enough air to meet the demands of the air conditioner. The condenser fan should pull in air from outdoors and into the system to cool. However, dirt, grass, leaves, and other debris can get in the way, minimizing the amount of air that can travel into the system. Check the outdoor unit for debris. If it is significantly blocked, this could be the problem.

Refrigerant leak: In some cases, you may need air conditioner repair if your system is running and blowing air, but no cool air is coming out. Refrigerant is a chemical necessary for cooling to take place. In some situations, the cooling system can develop a leak, leading to the loss of cooled air. When this happens, it can make it nearly impossible for your AC to get your home to a comfortable level. Have a technician come out to inspect the system to determine the problem, find the leak, repair it, and refill the refrigerant.

Undersized: In some situations, the air conditioner is undersized. That means that there is simply not enough power from the system to cool the entire home. That can lead to numerous limitations – including an inability for the home to get to the right temperature. It may be time to upgrade the system.

Finding the Right Repair Technician Is Easy to Do

Air conditioner repair in Ajax is available from Climate Experts Heating & Cooling. If you are having trouble keeping your home’s air comfortable, do not put off getting the help you need. Without a doubt, it is often necessary to have a professional troubleshoot what is occurring.

We are happy to help you. Contact us today to schedule an appointment for our team to come to you for a consultation.