If you smell a burning odor from your heating system, it is most likely a sign that your heating system’s moveable parts need to be lubricated. If you can’t see the source of the odor, then the best way to find it is to start with the main blower and work your way down. Therefore, here is a list of the possible causes and how to deal with them:
1. Clogged Air Filter
This is the most common problem. Check to see if you have clogged air filter by using a vacuum and blowing it clean. The filter should have an arrow on it showing which way the air should be blowing through it. The direction the arrows face indicates the proper direction of air flow. Moreover, a clogged filter will cause the fan to work too hard, which is not good, and in time will result in mechanical failure.
2. Wiring Issues
If your wiring to the system seems faulty you should call a licensed electrician. It is not recommended that you attempt to fix the problem yourself. The chances of you making it worse is high and heating systems can be dangerous if handled with little knowledge. Furthermore, if you do attempt to fix the wiring yourself but fail, your chances of getting electrocuted are very high.
3. Dust
Dust can build up on your heating system and cause the motor to work harder to get rid of the dust. The baking soda that you clean your furnace with is not an abrasive like sodium chloride, so it will not damage your motor but may take a while to be able to see any results. In addition, the heating system may be running but the temperature that it is running at is not high enough to evaporate the water vapor in your home and therefore you will smell a burning odor.
Conclusion
If you hear or smell a burning odor, it is important to have your heating system checked. Also, be sure to change your air filter on a regular basis. It is the main way that your system will be able to push air through your home properly and efficiently. Furthermore, if you do not change your filter the system will work harder which will result in a faster breakdown of the motor.