Burning Heater Smell: What Does It Mean And How Do I Fix It?

Heating your home is essential during the winter, but you may notice a burning smell coming from your heating system when it turns on. It’s likely due to a dusty build-up on the coils and isn’t cause for alarm. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the possible causes of a burning smell from your heater and what you can do about it.

Possible causes of a burning smell from your heating system:

• Burning Dust: When you turn on your furnace for the first time in a while, the dust accumulated on the heating elements can burn off and cause a burning smell. It is not harmful and will go away after a time. Keep an eye on it and open a window if the smell becomes too strong.
• Dirty Filter: This is the most common cause of a burning smell when you turn on your heating system. A dirty filter restricts airflow and causes the heat exchanger to overheat. To fix this, replace your filter with a new one.
• Cracked Heat Exchanger: A cracked heat exchanger is a more serious problem that should be fixed by a professional. A cracked heat exchanger can leak carbon monoxide into your home, which is a severe health hazard. If you think your heat exchanger might be cracked, shut off your heater immediately and call a Standard (link) for help.
• Wiring Problem: Another potential cause of a burning smell from your heater is a wiring problem. If your furnace has loose, damaged, or corroded wires, it could create a burning smell. If there is a wiring problem, shut off your heater immediately and call a Standard (link) to inspect and repair any wiring issues as soon as possible.