There are lots of things we want our heaters to be: efficient, quiet, warm. One characteristic that we don’t want in a furnace is odor. It’s safe to say that smelly things aren’t great, but if your heater smells like burning, it’s time to take a closer look at it. Check out a few of the main causes of this smell in furnaces, plus how to get rid of them.

Dust

After enjoying a long summer vacation, a heating unit comes back into play as fall and winter settle in. When you go to turn it on for the first time, you may notice the heater smells like burning. Rest assured, this is perfectly normal.

Dust is a common factor for any piece of equipment that has been sitting around without use. Your heater is no exception. That initial burning smell that comes when you flick on your heater for the first time is just the accumulated dust burning off. The smell should disappear after 10 minutes or so. If it lingers, then there may be another cause.

Debris in Ducts

Sometimes debris like plastic and rubber can end up in your vents between the seasons—say, a lost toy, for example. If your heater begins to smell like burning plastic, rubber, or other synthetic materials, it’s likely that something is stuck up there that isn’t supposed to be.

The best way to deal with this smell is to isolate the room where the smell is coming from. Then, if you’re able, carefully remove the vent and fish out the debris. If you aren’t able to do this safely, or if you are unable to locate the source of the smell, call your local HVAC expert to come to take a look.

Dirty Air Filter

Spring cleaning works great for your AC unit, but don’t leave out fall cleaning for your heater. Sometimes your heater smells like burning because the air filters are dirty. Dust and other organic particles get trapped in filters over time, and when too many have built up, it will cause a stink!

Fortunately, this problem is easy to fix. If your filters are reusable, then it’s time to give them a good scrub with household cleaners. If it’s not, head to the store to find a replacement. Here are some additional tips on how to pick the perfect filter for your heater.

Damaged Electrical Wires

One of the most pressing reasons a heater smells like burning is electrical problems. Heaters experience general wear and tear over time. Wires can get frayed or out of alignment. If an electrical burning smell is coming from your heater, especially if it lasts more than a few days, it’s probably caused by wire damage.

Electrical issues like these are serious because they can actually start a fire. In these instances, the best way to remedy this is through a heating professional. They will be able to survey your appliance and come up with an action plan. 

The Smell Test

If something isn’t up to snuff with your heating system, we’re here to help. If your heater smells like burning, or if you’re having any other furnace issues, give us a call today! We’re available 24/7 to lend a hand with your heating needs.