A burning smell from your furnace can be fairly alarming – but it’s also common. There are many reasons why your furnace might smell like it’s burning, and most of them are not serious.
Of course, it’s important to investigate and determine the source of the smell. Heavy odors from your furnace can signal a need for immediate repair. Sometimes, the unit may not be safe to use.
Here are the most common sources of burning smell in a furnace:
1. Dust
As winter settles in and you use your furnace for the first time, a noticeable odor is more likely than not. Dust settles on components such as the heat exchanger and burners. This causes the smell to be distributed through the vents, but it usually fades away in minutes.
2. Clogged Air Filter
Did you remember to get your furnace maintained this year? The furnace’s air filter is one of the most important parts when it comes to safety. A clogged filter causes the blower motor to work harder to get through the bottleneck, overheating it and causing the smell.
3. Foreign Objects
If the “burning smell” reminds you of plastic, that may be what it is. Small items such as bottle caps and children’s toys can fall into the heating unit. Sadly, by the time you notice the smell, the item has usually been destroyed. Consult a HVAC expert for next steps.
4. Gunpowder-Like Smell
This is a sign of serious danger! It means that a major component – usually the circuit board or the overhead motor – has burnt out. The unit should be turned off immediately when you notice the smell. Do not turn it on again until the unit has been serviced.
5. Oil or Smoke Smells
Occasional smoky smells from oil furnaces are nothing to worry about. The oil filter should be changed on a regular basis to reduce fire risk and control the smell. If you notice a persistent smell or one that grows in intensity, turn off your furnace.
You’re bound to notice all kinds of mild smells from a furnace from time to time. However, be careful to pay attention to the signs it is sending. Proceed with caution if you get any type of intense smell. That’s especially true if the furnace has not been serviced lately.
For expert advice on the condition of your furnace, contact Syles Mechanical.