Furnace emits a strong burning dust smell when it first starts for the season.

Safety first: If you smell burning plastic, electrical, or see smoke, turn off the furnace and investigate further.

Steps:

• Open windows slightly to ventilate the area during the first few heating cycles of the season.
• Replace the air filter to reduce dust circulation.
• Allow the furnace to run through several complete heating cycles; a mild dust smell often dissipates.
• If the smell persists or is acrid, have a technician inspect the CTC heat exchanger, burners, and wiring for overheating or damage.