When your heat pump is running smoothly, nothing should smell funny. If you notice an unusual odor, then something is amiss in your Ocean City, NJ home. Here, we explain what certain smells from your heat pump could mean.
1. Burning Dust
As fall progresses, you’ll probably begin to use your heat pump in warming mode. When you do, it might smell a little bit like something’s burning. That’s likely the dust on the heat pump’s components burning off as they get hot.
Usually, the smell lasts for only a few minutes. If it does last longer, then something could be wrong.
2. Odor Like Old Socks
This smell indicates the presence of biological growths either in or on the components of your heat pump. It’s common for ducts to be the source of such smells because standing water can collect in them.
3. Fishy Smell
A fishy smell generally indicates problems with your system’s wiring. Some other possible causes of this smell include an overheating motor or melting plastic components. Be sure to turn off tour heat pump and call for professional assistance if there is a fishy smell coming from your equipment.
4. Smoke
The smell of smoke could mean that your heat pump is on fire. While this is extremely rare, it is a possibility that you should be aware of. Shut off the system immediately, evacuate the house, and call the fire department if your heat pump catches fire. Once it’s safe, then it’s time to have a professional technician begin repairs.
We started our HVAC business nearly eight decades ago and have kept our commitment to excellence throughout that time. Our highly trained technicians have the equipment and skills to handle any HVAC problem you might have. When your heat pump smells funny, call us at Jenkins and Sons Plumbing & Heating for maintenance.
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