We have had a problem with fumes also. The smell is like strong burnt paraffin. Our storage heaters are very old and it worries me that one of them has done this and another seems to be going the same way. We have had to turn one off as the smell is unbearable and possibly dangerous. Although carbon monoxide does not smell it may be a result of the fumes you are smelling if the heater is old and this has happened in at least one case.
There does not seem to be any real answer available. I'm certain that dust would not smell like paraffin so be careful if this is the kind of smell you are getting.
james
January 2011