Why Does My Heater Smell Like It’s Burning? 

A heater that’s not working properly can definitely be cause for distress; a heater that smells like it’s burning is even more concerning. In most cases, however, a heater that smells like it’s burning isn’t cause for concern if you’re just turning the heater on for the first time; in other cases, however, it could be indicative of a very serious problem that requires emergency repairs. Here’s what you should know about potential causes of a burning smell coming from the heater, as well as what to do if you smell burning—

If You’re Turning Your Heater On for the First Time…

If you’re turning your heater on for the first time, then a burning smell is completely normal and is to be expected. That being said, it’s the smell of burning dust that’s normal, not the smell of electrical burning. If you smell burning dust when firing up your heater for the first time (whether for the first time ever or the first time of the season), don’t worry too much. This is the result of the dust that’s been settling on the heater all summer long getting a little toasty as the heater kicks in. You shouldn’t worry about this smell, but you should be aware that if the smell continues for too long, it could be a sign of a bigger problem.

The Smell of Electrical Burning

While the smell of burning dust shouldn’t be too concerning, especially if you’re turning your heater on for the first time, you should be concerned about the smell of electrical burning. If you smell electrical burning, it could be a sign of a major electrical problem and a potential fire hazard. Damaged wiring is common when it smells like burning; less common, but more serious, is a cracked exchange heater. If you smell electrical burning, the first thing you should do is turn your heater OFF immediately. Then, call a professional for help.

Ways to Prevent Heater Problems

The easiest way to avoid heater problems, including the smell of burning, is to schedule regular maintenance on your heater. Regular maintenance helps to ensure that everything is working well and in check. If you aren’t comfortable performing maintenance on your own (other than changing your filter!) and don’t have experience working on heaters, you should definitely consult with a professional. 

Call Naughton Mechanical, LLC Today

To learn more about Naughton Mechanical, LLC and the heating repair services we provide to residents throughout Indiana, please call us today. You can get in touch online or by phone. We provide fast, reliable services!