Is It Normal to Smell Gas Near a Furnace?

little boy inside during winter
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Is It Normal to Smell Gas Near a Furnace?

Heating Tips for the Winter in Kennewick, WA

A gas furnace can be an awesome way to heat your home. There is no need to make sure that it is loaded with messy fuel; you just need to start it up. It is easy to maintain, especially as there is no creosote buildup on the piping, and it is easy enough that anyone can operate it. There is also no smoke to deal with as the natural gas tends to burn clean. As long as the natural gas furnace is properly hooked up and maintained, it should last for a long time.

Be Aware of Unusual Odors

Your nose is one of the best diagnostic tools when it comes to your furnace. While natural gas is in and of itself invisible and virtually undetectable with no smell, additives are added to it so that leaks can be readily detected. This means that you should be paying attention to the well-known smell of methane usually attached to natural gas; the more pungent the smell, the more you should be worried, especially if the smell sticks around.

It needs to be noted that the gas furnace will put out a little gas each time it is fired up. The smell will be a bit stronger when the furnace has not been used for a long period of time, such as during summer. When it fires up again after such a period of time, there is bound to be a distinct gas odor; this is normal and should be ignored if it dissipates quickly. It is only if the smell persists that there could be an issue, and this is especially true if the furnace is not in use at the time. If that is the case, then call a technician as quickly as possible.

The Repair Process

Repairing the leak depends on the leak itself. While most leaks can be repaired in an afternoon, some can be far more complex and require more time. The technician will inspect the furnace and determine the best course of action to repair the furnace. The repair time can depend on the parts themselves; parts are usually in stock, but in some cases, they may need to be ordered. This can slow the process down.

Obviously, having an established repairman can help immensely. Someone that is willing to spend the time and develop a relationship can make a huge difference when it comes to repairs. Not only will the technician be aware of the furnace that you have and its usual problems, but he can also adapt to any specific limitations involved in the repair and maintenance of that furnace based on your needs. For example, the technician will know where the furnace is located, if there are any access issues, and if he noticed any potential problem areas during the last inspection, and he will also know the make and model of your furnace, so the repair company can keep parts in stock for you.

Keep in Mind What You Need

Ultimately, the best technician for your furnace is going to be the one most familiar with it. Every furnace is different, and sometimes, what will work for one home will not work for another one, even if they are of the furnace is the same make and model. A technician that has taken the time to become familiar with your specific needs will do better than one who was just called because his name was in the telephone book.

Your furnace deserves the best maintenance possible, and it’s a good idea to find a company that can tailor its services to your needs.

Look to Bruce Inc. For Personalized Service

Bruce Inc. was founded in 2002 in Hermiston, Oregon, with offices in Kennewick, Washington, and Littleton, Colorado. With our team of dedicated employees, we continue our 40-year legacy of quality heating and cooling installation and repair. We value our customer relationships, allowing us to develop a personalized approach to customer service and to know our customers’ needs almost before we step out of the truck. We also have a full-service sheet metal shop, which means that we can further customize your experience. No matter whether you need custom HVAC duct fittings, coil line fabrication, or steel or aluminum process ducting, we’re here for you. If you are tired of cookie-cutter solutions to your heating needs, give us a call today.