Why Does My Space Heater Smell Musty?

If you find that your space heater is emitting a burning smell, there are several things that you can do to fix the problem. You may have a bad power outlet or wires, or you may have a mildew or mold issue.

You may have a mildew or mold issue

If you have a space heater that is smelling musty, it may be harboring mold. This is because mold grows on damp surfaces. It can be difficult to get rid of. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to help.

First, you need to find the source of the moisture. You can do this by using a moisture meter. The meter is inexpensive, and it will give you the approximate humidity level of the room.

Once you’ve found the source, you can begin to dry the area. A hair dryer or portable dehumidifier can help. However, this may not solve the problem.

You should also consider hiring a professional to perform the job. In addition, you should wear rubber gloves when cleaning.

You may have a burning plastic smell

If you use space heaters, you might have noticed that they sometimes produce a burning smell. This can be an annoying odor, but it does not necessarily mean that you need to call the fire department.

Rather, it’s a good idea to take a closer look. You may be able to eliminate the smell by changing the filters and cleaning the unit. It’s important to keep the unit clean, especially if it’s been left in storage for a while.

There are many reasons why a heater might produce a burning smell. Luckily, most of these issues can be resolved by a service tech. However, you may need to replace your heater if the problem continues.

To determine if your space heater is the source of the smell, find the vent where the smell is coming from. Also, try to wait five minutes to see if the smell goes away.

You may have a problem with electrical wires

A burning smell from your space heater is a sign of a serious problem. You need to call a professional to figure out what is wrong with your heating system. It can cause major losses and even death.

The most common source of a burning heater smell is accumulated dust. Cleaning your vents, filters, and heating elements should be a priority. However, some components are not easy to access. If you suspect your space heater is leaking electricity, you need to get it fixed as soon as possible.

Another good reason to have your heating unit looked at by a professional is its smoky smell. Fortunately, most modern models are built to automatically power down when they become too hot. So, if you do notice a smoky smell, turn off the unit immediately.

You may have a problem with dust

It is important to clean your space heater regularly to avoid buildup. It is particularly important to clean the air filters. Dust can get into the filters and block the airflow. This can lead to a burning smell and cause your heater to shut off. Cleaning your heater can also remove stains on the casing.

If you’re using an electric space heater, you may be experiencing a problem with dust. You can use a Swiffer or a microfiber duster to remove the dust. Use caution when cleaning your heater, as you do not want to accidentally burn yourself. After you’ve finished cleaning your heater, wait for it to cool before plugging it back in. Then, place it on a surface with a cloth and allow it to dry.