That first furnace startup of the season often comes with a mysterious burnt smell. Is it harmless dust, or a sign of a bigger problem? Knowing the difference can protect your home, your family, and your wallet this Michigan winter. Initial Startup: Normal Dust Burning A faint burning smell is common when dust accumulated over the summer heats up. It should fade within a few hours and isn’t usually a cause for concern. When to Worry: Emergency Signs Call Douglas Heating Supply immediately if...

Michigan winters don’t wait and neither should your furnace maintenance. Avoid unexpected breakdowns, high energy bills, and safety hazards with our simple 5-step checklist. From DIY fixes to professional inspections, here’s how to keep your home warm and efficient this winter. 1. The Filter Fix A furnace filter can save hundreds on your heating bill. Check your 1-inch filters every 30–60 days for dust buildup and replace them as needed. Clean filters improve airflow, efficiency, and reduce...

It’s the middle of a Michigan winter, and your furnace suddenly starts blowing cold air for a minute before shutting off. You reset it, wait a bit, and it happens again. Sound familiar? If so, the problem might be as simple — and as important — as a dirty flame sensor. What Does a Flame Sensor Do? Your furnace’s flame sensor is a small metal rod located near the burner assembly. Its job is to detect whether the gas burners have ignited properly. Once it “sees” the flame, it signals the...