After a long, hot summer with the AC running practically non-stop, dust and other debris has had opportunity to settle on your heating element. However, when it’s time to use the heater, you will notice the smell of the dust burning off of the element when turned on. This is normal and not necessarily indicative of a serious problem with your heating unit. Ordinarily, the burning odor that you have detected lasts no longer than 30 minutes. However, if the burning odor lingers much longer, that would require a service call for a more serious problem. Never ignore a strange odor coming from your HVAC system. By not attending to the matter, a simple fix can quickly become a more complex matter.
Another cause for a burning odor coming from your heater is an overburdened motor. Failure to change the filter in your HVAC system will eventually cause the motor to become overtaxed. It has to work harder and harder from a lack of efficiency. As a result, the burning odor will become stronger and the motor will eventually give out.
Simply change the filters prior to turning on the heater for the first time, and you can save yourself a lot of headaches.
Your system can breakdown due to age, wear, and the neglect of routine maintenance. By adding oil, your system might begin to work properly again. However, after adding oil, if the burning odor is still prevalent, there’s a more significant problem that must have the attention of a professional. Routine maintenance keeps your system working efficiently and is more cost effective in the long run. Also, your system’s life will be prolonged.
If you have too many vents closed off, although it does not present a problem while the AC is running, however, it will cause a burning odor when too much hot air is blocked and also result in a host of possible problems within your system. Prior to heating your home, simply check all of the air vents throughout your home to ensure that they’re open. You’ll be happy you did!
AC Ambulance has been serving the Metro New Orleans area, in both residential and commercial properties, for four decades. We have built our reputation on trust and customer service, striving for complete customer satisfaction with our AC installation and repair services. We pride ourselves on having wonderful reviews on Angie’s List and from long-standing customers. To learn how AC Ambulance can help you with routine maintenance, service repairs, or to have a new unit installed, contact our Customer Service Specialists at (504) 467-1400 or by email at acambulance1@gmail.com. If we don’t fix it, you don’t pay for it!
