With its fuel efficiency and affordable cost, heating oil tends to be the popular choice for furnaces across the country. Just like other types of fuel, heating oil has a very distinct smell that is easy to pick up on. If you’re smelling heating oil in your home, it may be due to one of a few different reasons.
First Season Usage
When you first fire up your furnace for the winter season, you can expect to smell some oil residue. This is completely normal and should go away within the hour. If the smell persists for hours, then it’s time to shut your system off and contact an HVAC professional for further assistance.
Your Tank Was Refilled
If you run heating oil in your furnace, you’ll need an on-site oil tank. When this tank gets refilled by your local fuel provider, it will put the smell of heating oil into the air. The faint odor should go away in a short amount of time. If it doesn’t, check to see if they accidentally spilled oil on the ground, as that could be radiating the smell.
Your Furnace Filter Is Clogged
Your furnace’s filter is responsible for removing unwanted airborne toxins from the air inside your home. This filter needs to be replaced every couple of months to keep your air nice and fresh. Unfortunately, if you forget to replace your furnace filter, it can become blocked. This can lead to an excess of oil burning in your system due to inadequate airflow. Replacing your filter should solve the problem. If it doesn’t, you should contact an HVAC professional for further assistance.
Reliable Furnace Service
J.J. Agnello Heating & Air Conditioning Inc offers reliable furnace service for the entire Erie, PA and surrounding areas. Our technicians can also assist with all of your cooling, air purifier, ductwork, fireplace, indoor air quality, and mini-split needs. Simply contact us today to schedule your next service appointment with our licensed professionals.
