Malfunctioning Furnace Causes Excessive Heat, Scorch Burns

Engine 5 was called for a fire alarm activation at a commercial facility. On location, E5 found a haze of smoke and odor of something electrical burning in the office area. The company owner arrived and he joined E5 in walking through the building. E5 used a TIC, but was unable to pinpoint anything that was hot. E5 opened doors and windows to air out the building and to see if the smoke source would increase. Crews noted the furnace fan hadn't off since their arrival. The owner's son checked the filter, and it was darkened even though it was changed last Friday. Owner took front panel off furnace and the control board was scorched and melted. E5 turned off power to furnace and turned off breaker to furnace. Owner will get it fixed.