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Heating oil is a dependable furnace fuel used by countless US households annually. It offers many benefits, such as a steady supply, high efficiency, and low cost, making the winter season easier to bear. If you have a heating oil-powered furnace and detect a heating oil smell, you may wonder if this is an issue around your home. Heating oil emits a unique smell, but it shouldn’t be an issue if you have an excellent containment system. You may catch a whiff of it, but the scent will likely dissipate right away. However, consider consulting one of County Line Fuel’s preferred HVAC service partners in the rare chance that the smell persists. They can help you achieve better indoor air quality and pinpoint the cause of the issue.
Is It Normal to Smell Heating Oil?
It isn’t normal for the heating oil smell to linger around your home. However, it can occur in some instances. It can be trivial and fleeting sometimes, while other cases are persistent and severe. Here are four likely reasons this issue happens:
A Recent Tank Refill
It isn’t uncommon to smell fuel oil lingering in the air for a while after you get a fresh heating oil delivery. The odor will be faint and not overpowering. It should disappear on its own after a couple of days. If it takes longer, check if the delivery personnel spilled heating oil on the ground.
County Line Fuel proudly offers the most dependable and safest heating oil deliveries in Hunterdon County, New Jersey. We always deliver fuel without spills or problems. Call us today to know more about what our heating oil delivery services can do for you.
The Initial Furnace Use
Heating systems are idle for extended periods. Homeowners turn on their systems again only when the temperatures begin to plunge. The season’s initial furnace use may be the reason for the burning oil smell. This is completely normal; you don’t need to worry as the smell is fleeting.
A Clogged Furnace Filter
The oil smell may also mean that the furnace’s filter is clogged. Remember to replace your HVAC filter every 2 to 3 months or more, depending on your home’s needs. Conduct regular oil filter furnace checks to determine if it’s causing the issue. Consider other possible causes if replacing the filter doesn’t do anything.
An Underlying Furnace Problem
The smell can point to a deeper furnace issue, like inefficient operation. If oil doesn’t wholly combust, leftovers can cause the smell to linger. There may also be oil burner cracks where fumes are escaping through. Another reason can be heat exchanger failure. An experienced HVAC contractor can diagnose the exact cause. Regardless, licensed HVAC technicians from one of County Line Fuel’s preferred HVAC service partners have the skill and knowledge to help you in these situations.
Is an Oil Smell Dangerous?
Many homeowners are concerned about the heating oil smell because of possible health risks. This is especially true for people with an oil tank in an enclosed space like the basement. However, heating oil fumes are less hazardous than natural gas. Exposure to oil fumes in low concentrations isn’t as toxic. Heating oil is also sufficiently stable that explosions are not an issue. Still, it is best to avoid fumes completely.
Ensure that you call an HVAC professional if you smell oil lingering in the air inside your home. Ignoring the smell can cause the issue to escalate into more complex ones.
Symptoms from short-term exposure should disappear as soon as the oil smell dissipates. Avoid being exposed to oil smell for long periods as it can cause severe health problems. Consult professional assistance immediately if you can’t find the source of the oil smell.
What To Do If You Smell Heating Oil
Check the list in this article and do the recommended steps. Replace the HVAC filters, inspect the burner for cracks, and check for any spills on the ground. Switch off your heating system until the problem is resolved to ensure your safety. If the smell is indoors, ventilate the area properly. Open windows so the fumes can escape. Protect children and pets by keeping them away from the contaminated area.
You can also try using absorbent materials in case of oil delivery spills. This prevents oil from spreading. Isolate any damaged materials and clean them using soap and water. These are only basic solutions for minor issues. Call a professional for assistance if you have a problem that’s more than you can handle. There are cases wherein the issue is more than what homeowners can smell and see. It is recommended that a technician investigate it instead.
Conclusion
Most people have smell sensitivities for good reason. This keen sense warns us of the dangers we may not hear or see. Foul odors help us detect problems and resolve them immediately. If you notice a heating oil smell coming from your furnace, be diligent in finding the cause. It isn’t normal for heating systems to release fumes as the oil should be wholly contained in the tank. Several common causes are:
- Oil deliveries
- The first furnace oil use of the season
- Blocked HVAC air filters
- Underlying system problems
Having an HVAC professional assist you mean the cause is quickly identified and resolved.
Call County Line Fuel For Superior Home Comfort Solutions
County Line Fuel is your go-to heating oil delivery company, servicing Clinton, NJ and the surrounding areas. With our commitment to providing excellent products and services, you can trust us to meet all your heating needs. We offer the most competitive heating oil prices in the area, ensuring you get the best value for your money.
When you choose County Line Fuel as your oil supplier, you can count on accurate and prompt heating oil deliveries at affordable prices. Our various heating oil delivery plans and financing options allow you to customize your oil deliveries to suit your specific preferences. We take pride in making heating your home hassle-free and cost-effective. Click the link to get started.
Our preferred HVAC service partners have certified and highly trained HVAC technicians that are ready to cater to all your heating and cooling needs. With their expertise and knowledge, they can handle installations, repairs, maintenance, and more. Our superior HVAC solutions are designed to keep your home comfortable all year round without breaking the bank.
At County Line Fuel, customer satisfaction is our priority. We strive to deliver outstanding service and reliable solutions tailored to your unique requirements. For more information, contact us today. Experience the comfort and peace of mind that comes with choosing County Line Fuel as your trusted partner for all your home comfort needs. Call now!
You can click here to contact us now or call us at (908) 735-7610 to find out more!