If you are just turning your heat on for the first time this winter, it is not unusual, and in fact, is quite common for you to experience a dusty, burning smell. Most chances are that your furnace is actually burning away that old dust, debris and buildup that is present on your heat pump’s emergency backup electric heat strips. This is very normal. However, should the smell continue or you feel alarmed, scheduling a repair call would be the prudent approach.
Solution
- Allow the dusty burning smell to dissipate. It should clear within an hour or so, depending upon amount of buildup present.
- Be sure the A/C- furnace filter is clean and/or replaced as indicated.