Identifying HVAC Odors in Your Home—and When to Take Action Unusual smells in your home can be alarming—especially when they come from your heating and cooling system. Some odors are harmless, but others can signal serious issues. At Arco Heating & Cooling, we help homeowners identify HVAC-related smells and determine when it's time to worry—and take action. Common HVAC Smells and What They Mean 1. Burning Dust Smells like: Burning or dusty odor When it happens: Usually when turning on your heat for the first time in the season Should you worry? Not usually. It’s common and usually goes away quickly as dust burns off your heating elements. 2. Electrical or Burning Plastic Smell Smells like : Hot wires, melting plastic When it happens: While the system is running Should you worry? Yes. This may signal overheating parts, frayed wires, or a serious electrical issue. Turn off the system and call a professional immediately. 3. Rotten Egg or Sulfur Smell Smells like: Sulfur, rotten eggs When it happens: At any time Should you worry? Absolutely. This could indicate a natural gas leak. Leave your home immediately and contact your gas provider and HVAC technician. 4. Musty or Moldy Smell Smells like: Damp basement, mildew When it happens: Often when the AC runs Should you worry? Yes. This could be a sign of mold or mildew in your ducts or system. Not only can this affect indoor air quality, but it can also impact your family’s health. 5. Sewage or Dead Animal Smell Smells like: Foul, decaying odor When it happens: Sporadically or continuously Should you worry? Yes. You might have a pest problem or a sewage backup near your HVAC system. Call a professional to inspect it. What To Do If You Notice a Strange Smell Don’t ignore it . Even if the smell seems minor, it could be a warning sign. Turn off your system if the smell is electrical, smoky, or foul. Call a licensed HVAC professional like Arco Heating & Cooling to diagnose the issue safely and quickly. Trust Arco Heating & Cooling to Sniff Out the Problem Our team has the tools and experience to diagnose strange odors and fix HVAC issues fast. Whether it’s a routine cleaning, an electrical fix, or system replacement, we’re here to help keep your home safe and comfortable. As a trusted heating and cooling contractor based in St. Charles, MO , we proudly serve the entire St. Louis metropolitan area , including both Missouri and Illinois. Call ARCO Heating & Cooling today at (636) 389-6471 to schedule your inspection and get peace of mind!
How Seasonal Shifts Impact the Air You Breathe When spring turns into summer or fall shifts into winter, your home’s indoor air quality (IAQ) can change dramatically. These transitional seasons bring fluctuating temperatures, increased allergens, and different HVAC usage patterns—all of which can affect the health and comfort of your indoor environment. At Arco Heating & Cooling , we’re here to help you understand these shifts and keep your home’s air clean and comfortable year-round. What Happens to Indoor Air Quality in Transitional Seasons? More Time Indoors, More Exposure As temperatures become unpredictable, people tend to spend more time inside. While this keeps you comfortable, it also means you’re breathing indoor air more frequently—and if that air is filled with dust, pollen, or other irritants, it can take a toll on your health. Allergens Are on the Move Spring and fall are peak seasons for pollen, mold spores, and other allergens. Without proper filtration and ventilation, these particles can easily find their way indoors and linger in your HVAC system. HVAC Systems Kick Into Gear Transitional seasons often involve switching between heating and cooling. This inconsistent use of your HVAC system can lead to dust buildup in filters and ducts, impacting air quality and system efficiency. Signs of Poor Indoor Air Quality Persistent allergy symptoms Dust buildup near vents Musty or stale indoor smells Dry skin or throat irritation Excess humidity or dryness If you're experiencing any of these, it may be time to improve your indoor air quality. Arco Heating & Cooling’s Indoor Air Quality Solutions Tailored to Missouri and Illinois Homes We offer a range of products and services designed to enhance IAQ throughout transitional seasons: Air purifiers : Capture and remove airborne particles including pollen, dust, and bacteria. Humidifiers and dehumidifiers : Balance humidity levels to prevent mold growth and dry air discomfort. HEPA filters : High-efficiency filters for cleaner, healthier air. Duct cleaning services : Eliminate built-up dust, mold, and debris in your ductwork. Smart HVAC controls : Automate air quality monitoring and adjustments for convenience and efficiency. Our expert team will assess your needs and recommend the right solution to improve your indoor air all year long. Breathe Better This Season—and Every Season Your home should be a safe, comfortable place, no matter the weather outside. By investing in indoor air quality solutions, you protect your health, enhance comfort, and improve HVAC efficiency. Let Arco Heating & Cooling help you transition smoothly into every new season. As a trusted heating and cooling contractor based in St. Charles, MO , we proudly serve the entire St. Louis metropolitan area, including both Missouri and Illinois. Call ARCO Heating & Cooling today at (636) 389-6471 to schedule your indoor air quality consultation. Breathe easier with expert solutions tailored to your home.
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