Why does heater smell

Baseboard heaters are a popular alternative to a furnace in many smaller living spaces like apartments, condominiums, and small houses.

Though they differ from a central heating system in the way they provide heat to the living space, a burning smell from a baseboard configuration may share some similar causes. A burning smell from a baseboard heater can result from dust and debris or may indicate an electrical issue. Similar to a central system, if the odor does not dissipate within a few minutes and no visible debris is impacting its airflow, you should contact an HVAC technician immediately for a deeper investigation.

By new construction standards, radiator heat is largely considered an outdated solution compared to baseboards and central heating systems. However, many older homes still do use radiators. Like baseboards and central, a burning smell from radiators could indicate the presence of dust or debris. With radiators, though, this could also indicate the presence of mold on the system or a corrosive substance called hydrogen sulfide. Hydrogen sulfide can damage the metal and will emit an odor that smells like eggs.

If you notice this smell, you should contact an HVAC technician immediately to prevent damage to your system. Heating system issues should not be ignored, and our technicians can work with you to resolve them. If the smell is sudden or strong, you may need to temporarily leave your home and wait for a professional to come and identify the source of the smoke.

Abnormal smells coming from a furnace could be one of the signs of a failing or damaged system. Here are some of the other signs of a failing furnace or that a furnace needs repairs.

When you need furnace repair here in Fresno and the Central Valley, call the locally trusted professionals at Allbritten. Our experienced, expert techs can quickly diagnose furnace odors and get your system back to running safely and effectively. We will respond to your online requests by AM the following business day. If you need immediate service or need to talk to one of our staff quicker, please call us at and we will be happy to serve you! What kind of odors can a furnace produce?

Burning dust smell A burning dust smell may emanate from the furnace once you start the furnace at the beginning of the winter season. Metallic smell If you notice a metallic smell coming from the furnace, it might be due to a component inside the furnace overheating. The smell of rotten eggs The odor of a rotten egg or sulfur is another cause for serious concern.

Pet smells Sometimes, the smell of pet waste or hair will appear to emanate from the furnace registers. Sewage smell In case you notice the smell of sewage water emanating from the vents, it may be that an open sewer line or a broken wastewater line may be located near the system. Natural gas is odorless, so in order to make it detectable, a chemical called mercaptan is added.

This chemical is responsible for that unpleasant smell. Since natural gas is highly toxic and can be fatal, it is imperative that you shut off your heater, vacate your family and pets! Smell something fishy? As this is a serious fire hazard, you should shut off your heater and call for heating service.

Need heating service? Your heater smells like burning when first turned on due to the smell of burning dust. In most cases, this odor dissipates in an hour or so.

While the heater smell is a normal part of starting the system for the season, there are some measures you can take to reduce it. If you smell a distinct burning odor when using your furnace throughout the year, this is cause for concern.

Avoid this odor with a heating tune up from Estes Services each fall. Bo Knows Estes Education Center.