Troubleshooting a Furnace's Fumes

Slide out the furnace filter to see if it is packed with dust and debris, if you detect a slight burning smell. This could indicate the furnace is overheating. Replace the filter with a new one or clean it off thoroughly with soapy water, if it is marked as “washable.”

Wait for 30 minutes after you change the filter to let the furnace cool down, then shut off power to the furnace and press the “Reset” button to get it restarted. The "Reset" button is usually located near the motor housing.

Check to ensure the heat registers around your home are not all closed or blocked, which may result in excess heat buildup and furnace fumes. Open at least 80 percent of the registers in the house and move any obstructions aside.

Gather your family members and pets and leave the house immediately if you smell gas fumes or a rotten egg smell. Go to a neighbor’s house and phone the fire department or gas company or call from your cell phone.