Category: Furnace

A man replacing a dirty HVAC air filter.

5 Reasons Why Your Furnace Is Overheating

Posted on | by Jamie Yocum

Your furnace is a real MVP in the winter. It keeps your house warm, your family comfortable, and your pipes from freezing when the temperatures outside drop to ridiculous levels. It works hard, day in and day out, so you don’t have to think twice about staying warm.

But sometimes, things go wrong. For instance, if your furnace is getting too hot, shutting down unexpectedly, or making strange noises, you might be dealing with an overheating furnace. Ignoring it can lead to bigger problems, so it’s important to figure out what’s going on. Let’s go over the reasons why your furnace is overheating and what you can do to fix it.

1. A Dirty Air Filter Is Blocking Airflow

One of the most common reasons why your furnace is overheating is something incredibly simple: a clogged air filter.

Your furnace needs good air flow to function properly. If the air filter is packed with dust and debris, it restricts how much air moves through the system. This causes the furnace to work harder than it should, leading to overheating.

Signs this might be your problem:

  • The furnace turns off before finishing a full heating cycle (short cycling).
  • You notice less warm air coming through the vents.
  • You haven’t changed your filter in months (or, let’s be honest, maybe longer).

The Fix

Check your air filter. If it’s dirty, replace it. This is an easy and inexpensive fix that can improve your furnace's efficiency and help prevent bigger problems down the line.

2. The Blower Motor Isn’t Working Properly

The blower motor is responsible for pushing heated air through your home’s ducts. If it’s malfunctioning or failing, the furnace can’t distribute heat effectively. This leads to trapped heat inside the system, which causes overheating.

Signs this might be your problem:

  • You hear a rattling or screeching noise coming from the furnace.
  • The system shuts off before fully heating your home.
  • You feel hot air inside the furnace cabinet, but it's not coming through the vents.

The Fix

If you suspect a blower motor issue, you’ll likely need a professional to inspect and repair it. Over time, the motor can wear out due to age or lack of regular maintenance, so keeping up with annual tune-ups can help prevent this issue.

3. A Faulty High Limit Switch

Your furnace has safety features built in to prevent overheating, one of those being the high limit switch. This component monitors the furnace’s internal temperature and shuts the system down if it gets too hot.

If the limit switch is faulty, it may not regulate the temperature correctly. This can cause your overheating furnace to keep running until it reaches dangerously high temperatures.

Signs this might be your problem:

  • The furnace shuts off frequently and unpredictably.
  • You notice a burning smell from the ductwork or around the furnace.
  • The system seems to be "stuck" in short heating cycles.

The Fix

If you think an issue with the high limit switch could be one of the reasons why your furnace is overheating, don't hesitate to call G.F. Bowman. A broken high limit switch is a job for a professional. This is a key safety component, and if it’s failing, you’ll want to get it fixed before your gas furnace suffers long-term damage.

4. The Heat Exchanger Is Cracked or Failing

The heat exchanger is one of the most important parts of your furnace. It’s responsible for safely transferring heat from the combustion process to the air that circulates in your home. If it cracks or becomes damaged, heat can build up inside the system, leading to overheating.

This is especially dangerous because a cracked heat exchanger can also lead to carbon monoxide leaks — a serious health hazard.

Signs this might be your problem:

  • You smell something unusual, like a burning or metallic odor.
  • You notice soot around the furnace or near return air vents.
  • Your carbon monoxide detector goes off.

The Fix

A cracked heat exchanger isn’t something you can DIY. This is a serious issue that requires immediate professional furnace repair. If you suspect this is the problem, turn off your furnace and call for service right away.

5. Your Furnace Is Too Big for Your Home

It might sound surprising, but an oversized furnace can actually lead to short cycling and overheating. If your furnace is too powerful for your home’s size, it will heat up too quickly, shut down before completing a full cycle, and then start up again too soon. This frequent on-and-off cycling can cause overheating and premature wear on the furnace's internal components.

Signs this might be your problem:

  • The furnace turns on and off frequently.
  • Your energy bills are higher than expected.
  • Some rooms in your home get too hot while others stay cool.

The Fix

Unfortunately, if your furnace is too big, the best long-term solution is to replace it with a properly sized unit. A heating professional can help determine the right size system for your home.

What to Do If Your Furnace Is Overheating

If you suspect your furnace is overheating, don’t ignore it. Overheating can cause serious damage to your system and even pose safety risks.

Here’s what you should do:

  1. Turn off the furnace. If you notice any warning signs, shut down the system to prevent further damage.
  2. Check the air filter. A clogged filter is an easy fix that might solve the problem.
  3. Listen for unusual sounds. Grinding, rattling, or screeching noises could indicate a blower fan or blower motor issue.
  4. Call a professional for furnace repair. If the problem isn’t obvious or easy to fix, schedule a service appointment to diagnose the issue.

For expert furnace repair in Harrisburg, PA, the team at G.F. Bowman can help. We have the proper tools and experience to diagnose and repair an overheating furnace safely and efficiently.

Schedule Furnace Services in Harrisburg With G.F. Bowman!

A furnace overheating is a serious issue that can lead to system damage, high energy bills, and even safety risks. Some of the most common reasons why your furnace is overheating include a dirty air filter blocking airflow, a malfunctioning blower motor, and an oversized furnace that’s short cycling.

If your furnace is overheating, don’t wait for a full system breakdown. The team at G.F. Bowman offers professional heating services in Harrisburg, PA, and the surrounding areas to get your furnace back on track.

We can handle everything from furnace repairs and maintenance to full system replacements. Whether your furnace is short cycling, shutting off unexpectedly, or just not heating like it should, we'll find the problem and fix it fast. Contact us today to schedule service!

A woman holding her nose due to a bad smell in a house.

Why Does My Furnace Smell Like It’s Burning?

Posted on | by Jamie Yocum

Ever noticed how our senses can pick up on things that feel a bit off? Whether it's the subtle drip of a faucet or that faint squeak of a loose floorboard, we’re pretty good at sensing when something in our home needs attention. Smells especially have a way of alerting us, don’t they? If you’ve ever flipped on your furnace and been hit with a strong burning odor, it’s not just your nose being sensitive — it’s your home’s way of telling you something might be up.

In this blog, we'll dig into why that burning smell from your furnace is happening, what it could mean, and when it’s time to take action.

Common Causes of a Furnace Burning Smell

The smell of something burning when your furnace kicks on can be alarming, but it’s not always a cause for panic. There are a few common culprits behind that burnt smell from your furnace.

Burning Dust

When you first turn on your furnace after it’s been off for a while — like at the start of winter — it’s normal to smell a bit of burning dust. Dust collects on your furnace’s heating elements during the warmer months, and once you fire it up, that dust burns off, creating a distinctive smell. This burning dust smell usually fades after a few hours.

Clogged Air Filter

Air filters are designed to trap dust, dirt, and other debris, so they don’t clog up your furnace’s internal components. But when the air filter itself gets too full, it restricts airflow, causing your furnace to work harder. This can lead to overheating, which in turn might cause a burning smell. Replacing or cleaning your air filter regularly can help you avoid this issue altogether.

Burning Plastic

If the burning smell is sharper and smells like plastic, it’s a sign that something in your furnace might be melting. This could be due to overheated wires, an issue with the blower motor, or other electrical components. If your furnace smells like it’s burning plastic, turn it off and call a professional — melted plastic and electrical odors can pose serious risks.

Is It Normal for My Furnace to Smell Like It’s Burning?

Certain smells are normal, especially when you’re first turning on your heating system for the season. However, there are times when a furnace burning smell can signal a serious issue. Here’s a breakdown of what’s normal and what isn’t.

What’s Considered Normal?

As mentioned, the smell of burning dust is normal, notably if it fades after a short time. Also, as the furnace heats up or cools down, you may notice a burnt smell from your furnace, but this usually goes away quickly.

When to Worry

A burning smell coming from your furnace can be alarming and signal that there’s an issue that needs attention. While some odors, like dust burning off at the start of the season, are normal, others may indicate serious problems. Here are some instances when this strange smell can be a cause for concern:

  • Persistent Burning Smell: If the smell doesn’t fade, it could indicate a larger issue, like an overheated fan motor or clogged air filter.
  • Chemical Odors or Burning Plastic: These smells can mean that electrical components are overheating or melting, which could create a fire hazard.
  • Rotten Egg or Sulfur Smell: If your furnace smells like rotten eggs, it could be a natural gas leak. In this case, leave your home immediately and call your gas company.

Possible Issues Behind a Burning Smell From Your Furnace

The reasons behind a furnace burning smell vary, and the severity of the issue can range from minor to serious. Here’s a deeper look at what might be happening inside your furnace.

Overheated Blower Motor

When your furnace’s blower motor becomes overheated, it can emit a strong burning smell. This often happens if there’s an issue with the motor’s internal components, like faulty wiring or excessive dust buildup. If the burning smell persists, it’s time to call an HVAC technician to inspect the system.

Electrical Burning Smells

Electrical burning smells aren’t something to ignore. If you notice this, it could be due to wiring problems, an overheated blower motor, or issues with the furnace’s electrical components. Electrical smells may also be caused by melting plastic wire casing. These issues can be hazardous and should be checked by a professional.

Heat Exchanger Issues

A cracked heat exchanger is a serious problem that can lead to a dangerous situation. The heat exchanger separates the hot air from gases like carbon monoxide. If it cracks, it can release these harmful gases into your home, reducing indoor air quality and posing a risk of carbon monoxide exposure. A heat exchanger problem is often accompanied by a burning odor and requires immediate attention.

How to Address Common Furnace Burning Smells

Let’s look at the steps you can take to troubleshoot and handle a furnace burning smell.

Replace the Air Filter

The first line of defense against overheating and poor airflow is a clean air filter. A clogged air filter can cause the furnace to overheat, resulting in a burning smell. Most manufacturers recommend replacing the furnace air filter every one to three months during peak use. If you notice poor air movement, the filter might be to blame.

Inspect the Blower Motor

The blower motor circulates warm air throughout your home, but if it’s malfunctioning, it can overheat and cause a burnt smell. If you suspect an issue with the blower motor, it’s best to have it looked at by an HVAC technician. They can inspect the fan motor, check for dust or debris, and replace any worn-out parts.

Check for Gas Leaks

If your gas furnace smells like it’s burning or if there’s a rotten egg smell, this could indicate a gas leak. Gas leaks are serious safety hazards that require immediate action. Leave your home, avoid using electrical devices, and contact your gas company right away. Regular maintenance can help catch these issues early.

Call for Furnace Repair

If your gas furnace smells like it’s burning and the odor doesn't go away, it’s worth getting a professional’s opinion. A licensed technician can pinpoint the issue, from an electrical burning smell to a faulty heat exchanger, and recommend repairs to keep your furnace running safely.

Why Regular Furnace Maintenance Is Important

Preventing issues with your furnace — including unwanted burning smells — starts with regular maintenance. Here’s how routine check-ups can help.

Cleaning and Inspection

During a maintenance visit, technicians clean the furnace and inspect key components like the heat exchanger, blower motor, and electrical parts. This prevents dust from building up and helps the heating system function smoothly.

Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced by furnaces, which is why a CO detector is essential in your home. Regular maintenance can also include checking carbon monoxide detectors to confirm that they’re working properly, helping you catch any issues with your heating system before they turn dangerous.

Prevent Expensive Repairs

Taking proactive steps with maintenance can prevent costly repairs in the future. Catching small issues — like dust buildup or a dirty air filter — can stop them from developing into major problems that result in a smelly furnace.

Should You Consider Furnace Replacement?

If your furnace is old or has frequent issues, replacement might be a more cost-effective option in the long run. Furnaces that are 15 to 20 years old may struggle to keep up, and persistent burning smells, constant repairs, or decreased efficiency are signs it could be time for an upgrade.

Consider reaching out to G.F. Bowman for a professional furnace replacement in Harrisburg or one of the surrounding areas if:

  • Your furnace is over 15 years old.
  • Repair costs are adding up.
  • The burning smell persists despite repairs.
  • Your furnace no longer heats effectively.

When to Call for Emergency Heating Repair

If a burning smell from your furnace is accompanied by unusual sounds, poor heating performance, or safety concerns, you may need emergency heating repair. G.F. Bowman offers emergency repair services in Harrisburg, PA, with expert technicians trained to diagnose and fix any heating problem safely.

Don’t Ignore Burning Smells — Contact G.F. Bowman Today!

No one wants to deal with a smelly furnace, but ignoring a burning smell from your furnace can be risky. Whether it’s something as simple as a dust burn or as serious as an electrical issue, addressing these smells early on can help keep your family safe and warm.

Contact G.F. Bowman for reliable furnace repair in Harrisburg, PA, or one of the nearby areas today! Our experienced team is here to troubleshoot, repair, and, if needed, replace your heating and cooling system.