Firing up the furnace for the first time in months and catching a whiff of something burning can be alarming. You have the heat pouring in, but then there is that unmistakable scent of something that seems a bit too toasty. Before you panic, let’s break down what might be causing that burning smell after turning on the heat. Whether something is actually burning in your furnace, how long it might last, and what you can do to get rid of it.
To learn more or schedule HVAC repair service in St. Louis, contact the heating and air conditioning experts at Galmiche & Sons today.
What Causes the Smell?
One of the most common reasons for that burning smell is dust. When your furnace has been dormant during the warmer months, dust and debris naturally accumulate on the burners, heat exchangers, and other crucial components. Once you kick on the heat, that dust combusts and produces that burnt odor. It’s essentially just accumulated dust getting incinerated and wafting through your vents.
Another reason could be your furnace filter. If you haven’t changed your filter in a while, it could get clogged with dust particles. When the heat system revs up, the dust can produce a burning smell as it gets pushed through the furnace.
Is Something Burning in Your Furnace System?
As long as it’s dust and debris, it’s fine. However, if you notice a burning smell after turning on the heat, it’s crucial to ensure that nothing more hazardous is happening inside your furnace system. If the smell persists or if you notice any smoke, sparks, or if the furnace doesn’t seem to be working correctly, it might be more than just a dust issue. Components like the blower motor could overheat and malfunction, or there might be electrical issues contributing to the smell.
In some cases, the smell could emanate from objects that have made their way into the duct or heating system. This could be anything from a pet’s or child’s toy to a piece of clothing that somehow got stuck and is now burning in the heat.
How Long Will There Be a Burning Smell After Turning on the Heat?
If it’s just dust, the burning smell should dissipate within a few hours of running the furnace for the first time for the season. If it lingers into the next day and you have already checked your furnace filter, it might be time to investigate further or call in a professional.
What Can You Do to Get Rid of the Burning Smell Your Furnace is Emitting?
- Change your furnace filter. A clean, new filter can make a massive difference in air quality and could lessen the intensity of any burning smell after turning on heat. If the smell persists, running the heater on low for some time can help burn off dust gradually without causing that overwhelming burnt smell.
- Another good practice is to clean the vents and registers around your house. Dust can build up there, contributing to the smell once the heat kicks in. Make sure to vacuum and wipe them down to keep air flowing freely.
- Have your heating system professionally cleaned and inspected before the start of the winter season. This ensures that everything is in top shape and can help avoid nasty surprises once the furnace is up and running.
Let Galmiche & Sons Take Care of the Burning Smell After Turning on Heat
When it comes to quality furnace repair services, look no further than Galmiche & Sons. We’re a trusted name in St. Louis for high-quality residential and commercial HVAC services. Whether it’s a persistent burning smell or a more pressing furnace issue, our team of professionals can help diagnose and fix the problem quickly. Don’t let a little bit of burnt dust turn into a bigger, more expensive issue. Keep your home warm and safe with help from the experts at Galmiche & Sons. Contact us today to schedule your HVAC maintenance appointment or repair.
