Why Does My Heater Smell Like It’s Burning?
If you’re turning on your heater for the first time this fall, it may smell like it’s burning. This happens whether you or a maintenance technician turns it on. There are a variety of reasons your heater can smell when it’s operating. Normal Burn-Off During the spring and summer, it’s common for heating equipment to get covered in a layer of dust and dirt. As your heater begins to operate, the buildup will burn away. It can smell like a fire, so if you’re not aware of this phenomenon, it can be quite alarming. To protect yourself and your home, it’s best to have an experienced heating professional turn on your system every fall. Musty Odors If your system also has a musty odor, you’ve likely got mildew or mold in your ventilation system. Sometimes the smell burns away with the dirt buildup. If it remains after the burning smell stops, you’ll need to eliminate the causes. Replace your filter or clean it if it’s a washable model. Musty smells that linger after cleaning should be addressed by a professional who knows how to identify harmful molds. Regular furnace maintenance can prevent winter breakdowns and extend the useful life or...
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