One of the benefits of living in the Sunshine State is… well… sunshine. A whole year of it! So, while our northern neighbors are gearing up for snow, sleet and slush during the holidays, we have the seasonal hardships of having to choose which long-sleeved shirts we’re going to dust off when those short-lived cold fronts hit (more on dust later). If you’re like the average Floridian, these brief brushes of cooler air will also encourage you to select the “heat” setting on your thermostat.
Wait, there’s a “heat” setting?
There is. It doesn’t get a lot of use here in our corner of the country, but it is there for when you need to keep your home comfortable in cooler weather. In fact, after sitting dormant for months at a time, you may notice an unexpected and unpleasant surprise when you turn on your heater for the first time this season. While a burning smell coming from your heat pump is common (and normally not a cause for alarm), you don’t have to live with a less-than-pleasant burning odor. If your heater smells like it’s burning, here’s why – and if you should be concerned.
Dust
Just like those winter clothes we mentioned earlier, an HVAC system that has remained dormant can accumulate dust and other particles from the air supply in your home. This dust is the most common source of a burning smell from your heater. When the heating system is turned on, these materials are stirred around and eventually burn up, causing that short-lived stench. While you don’t need to contact the fire department, you should take a look just to be sure that there isn’t another source of the odor. You may notice that as the system completes a heating cycle, the smell fades. If it continues after one or two heating cycles, consider contacting an HVAC technician for help.
Overheating Heater
Changing the filter is a quick and easy way to ensure that your HVAC system stays in tiptop shape. If it has been a while since you’ve tackled this task, then a clogged air filter could be the reason for that burning smell. It’s possible that all the dirt and debris stuck to your air filter is obstructing airflow, which in turn, causes your heater to work harder than it should. When this happens, the motors can overheat and start to emit that burning smell that is flowing through your house. The fix? Make sure you start off the winter season with a new air filter!
It’s Electric
Sometimes, it’s more than a lack of basic maintenance like changing the filter that can cause the burning smell. If your heater is still letting out a smoky, electrical odor after its initial startup for the season, it could be a sign of a much bigger problem. Electrical shorts and other malfunctions may be occurring in your heater, leaving your HVAC unit and home in danger. If you have a constant smoky, electrical smell coming from your vents, turn off your system and call an HVAC professional right away.
The Badger Bottom Line
Along with twinkling lights, halls decked with decorations and gift lists being checked off, a burning smell from the first use of your HVAC heat is a sure sign of the holiday season. While this familiar fragrance is usually caused by dust and normally fades after a heating cycle or two, you should call a professional right away if you notice an electrical hint to the scent – and it lingers for longer. If your unit needs to be replaced, now is the right time with our New A/C Guarantee. You can get the cooling system of your choice with financing options available, plus a 10-year maintenance plan and a 10-year warranty on parts and labor. Give us a call or visit us HERE to learn more!