FAQs
A burning plastic smell coming from your heater can signal serious issues such as melted electrical wiring, foreign objects trapped in the vents, or overheating components like the motor or fan. Melted plastic from wiring or casings may result from electrical faults, while plastic toys or debris in the ducts can heat up and release the same odor. Overworked or clogged parts may also cause nearby plastic elements to overheat and degrade. If you notice this smell, turn off your heater immediately and contact our licensed heating contractors to inspect and resolve the issue before it leads to further damage or a potential fire hazard.
Yes, a furnace can potentially catch on fire or explode but these situations are rare with proper maintenance. Common risks include gas leaks, cracked heat exchangers, or faulty wiring. To reduce the risk, schedule regular furnace maintenance with a trusted furnace service company and address unusual smells, sounds, or performance issues right away. Safety starts with routine inspections and prompt repairs.
If your AC system smells like vinegar or gas, it could indicate a problem that needs immediate attention:
- A vinegar smell is often caused by mold, mildew, or bacteria growing in the condensate drain line or air ducts. It may also stem from a clogged filter or excess moisture in the system.
- A gas smell could indicate a refrigerant leak or, in rare cases, a natural gas leak if your system uses gas heating components.
Both odors can signal health and safety risks. Contact a licensed AC service company to inspect and repair your system promptly.
If your water heater is running out of hot water too quickly, it could be due to:
- Sediment buildup in the tank, which reduces heating efficiency.
- A faulty thermostat that’s not heating water to the correct temperature.
- A broken dip tube, which causes cold water to mix with hot too soon.
- Increased household demand that exceeds your heater’s capacity.
A professional plumbing inspection can identify the issue and recommend repairs or a replacement if needed.
The best drain cleaning method depends on the severity and location of the clog. For routine maintenance, enzyme-based cleaners are safe and effective. For tougher clogs, professional drain snaking can break up blockages without damaging your pipes. In more severe cases, hydro jetting—which uses high-pressure water—offers a deep, thorough clean and removes grease, buildup, and debris. A licensed plumber can determine the right method based on your specific issue.
Wiring issues are often caused by aging systems, rodent damage, moisture, overloaded circuits, or poor installation. Signs you need a repair or replacement include flickering lights, burning smells, frequent breaker trips, or outlets that don’t work. If your home is more than 30 years old or you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to schedule an inspection with a licensed electrician. Prompt service can help prevent electrical fires and keep your home safe.
You should schedule breaker panel repairs or replacements if you notice frequent tripped breakers, burning smells, buzzing sounds, scorch marks, or dimming lights. These are signs your panel may be overloaded or deteriorating. If your home still uses a fuse box or your panel is over 25 years old, it’s time for an upgrade. A licensed electrician can inspect your system and recommend whether a repair or full replacement is needed to ensure your electrical system remains safe and reliable.
We perform top-rated HVAC, electrical, and plumbing services! Call Keep Smiling Plumbing Electric Heating and Cooling at 770-273-9090 for appointments in Athens-Clarke County, GA, and throughout the Atlanta Metro Area.