Autumn is here and soon you’ll be using your furnace to heat your home. A common concern among homeowners is when you turn your furnace on for the first time after a period of non-use and notice a burning smell. Let’s go over what’s the likely reason for a burning smell and whether it needs our attention. Whether you have a gas or electric furnace, understanding what causes this can help you determine if it’s normal or if it’s a sign that you need furnace repair in Whitehall, PA.
Common Causes of a Burning Smell in Furnaces
A burning smell coming from your furnace can be concerning, but in some cases, it’s normal when you first turn on your system. However, it’s important to understand what’s causing the smell so you can decide whether it needs our professional attention.
1. Dust Buildup
If you haven’t used your furnace in many months, there’s a good chance that dust has settled on its internal components. When you turn the furnace on for the first time in the season, this dust burns off and can create a burning smell. This odor is usually temporary and should disappear within a few minutes to an hour. This is the most common reason for a burning smell.
What to do: If the smell doesn’t go away after the first use or seems stronger than usual, it’s a good idea to have us check it out. While burning dust is common, persistent odors could signal a deeper problem.
2. Overheating Components
Another common cause of a burning smell is overheating parts inside the furnace, such as the blower motor or electrical wiring. If your furnace is struggling to maintain airflow—whether due to a clogged filter or other internal issues—it can overheat, causing that distinct burning odor.
What to do: If you suspect overheating, turn off your furnace immediately and contact us. Overheated components can lead to further damage or even become a fire hazard if not addressed quickly.
3. Clogged Air Filters
Dirty air filters restrict airflow through an electric or gas furnace, which can lead to overheating and a burning smell. You should always start the heating season with a new, clean filter.
What to do: Regularly inspect and replace your furnace filter. If you notice a burning smell and see that your filter is dirty, change it out. If the smell persists, contact us so we can make sure no further damage has occurred.
4. Electrical Burning Smell
If you notice a smell similar to burning plastic or wiring, it could mean there’s an electrical issue inside the furnace. This smell is typically caused by overheated wiring, a malfunctioning motor, or a failing capacitor in your system. These electrical problems should never be ignored, as they can lead to fire hazards.
What to do: Shut off your furnace immediately and contact us. Electrical issues can be dangerous and should only be handled by experienced HVAC technicians.
If you’ve noticed any strange smells from your furnace, contact us today for prompt service.
Call the friendly staff at Boehmer Heating & Cooling for exceptional customer service! Schedule furnace repair in Whitehall, PA with our team today.
Whether you require installation, repair, or maintenance, our technicians will assist you with top-quality service at any time of the day or night. Take comfort in knowing your indoor air quality is the best it can be with MOE heating & cooling services Ontario's solution for heating, air conditioning, and ventilation that’s cooler than the rest.
Contact us to schedule a visit. Our qualified team of technicians, are always ready to help you and guide you for heating and cooling issues. Weather you want to replace an old furnace or install a brand new air conditioner, we are here to help you. Our main office is at Kitchener but we can service most of Ontario's cities
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