One of the most troublesome things to notice is a burning smell coming from the furnace when you turn it on. While it’s not uncommon for this to occur during the first use of the season, it shouldn’t occur after that. A furnace inspection by the professionals at Bormida Heating & Cooling is necessary if you notice a burning smell a few minutes after turning on the heater.
Look for Flames or Smoke
When you notice the burning smell, turn off the furnace, then check it for a quick visual inspection. If you see any smoke or flames, you should immediately get everyone out of the house and call 911. If you don’t see any of those, it’s likely safe to use the furnace for a little while.
Dust is the Likely Culprit
Dust is the most likely culprit when you smell something burning when you turn on the furnace. It can settle in the combustion chamber. The heat sears it off when you turn the unit on. Typically, the smoky smell will only last a few minutes. Open the windows to let the smell out. If you have ceiling fans, turn them on to help eliminate the burning smell faster. You likely won’t have to leave the windows open for too long.
Overheated Motor Might Be the Cause
The furnace motor could be overheating, causing a burnt smell. This is due to failing to change the furnace filter regularly. A clogged filter makes the motor work harder to move air through the unit, leading to overheating. Bormida Heating & Cooling can check the motor to determine if it’s damaged. Checking the filter is a good idea if you smell something burning when you turn on the furnace. Ideally, you’ll change it at least every three months. You may need to change it more often if you have pets. As a bonus, your home’s air quality will improve when you change the filter.
A Furnace Tune-Up Is Important
A furnace tune-up ensures the unit is in good condition to get you through the winter months. During the tune-up, all the dust is cleaned out of the unit, and the air filter is replaced. Our technicians check the components to ensure they’re functioning optimally. This can help to prevent issues during the season, and you shouldn’t notice a burning smell when you turn the furnace on for the first time.
Contact Bormida Heating & Cooling
The team at Bormida Heating & Cooling knows the importance of having a working furnace during Illinois winters. Contact our team at 217.210.2662 to schedule a checkup for your furnace. We’re ready to help Springfield, IL residents have comfort all year long.
