Have you recently had a new furnace set up and are now experiencing an unusual smell? You’re not alone, because plenty of other homeowners also experience this at first. Let’s review what’s causing this smell, and when you can expect it to disappear, as well as three other furnace smells you shouldn’t ignore.
Why Your New Furnace Smells
There are two factors why a new furnace might smell.
Protective Coating
Your furnace has a special coating on specific parts to keep them from rusting. This may include the heat exchanger, which safely removes gases like carbon monoxide naturally made during the heating process.
When your furnace operates for the first couple of times, the coating may give off a burning smell. This is standard and the smell should go away the more your furnace runs.
To be on the safe side, you’ll want to connect with a heating and cooling company if the smell persists. A burning smell that remains can mean the motor is too hot or there’s an electrical problem, among other issues.
Dust
Dust accumulates inside your furnace when it’s idle in the spring and summer. That dust will burn off when you switch on your furnace in the fall, producing a burning smell. This smell should go away within a few minutes.
One way you can reduce or prevent this smell is by having furnace maintenance done every single year. This is needed to keep your valuable manufacturer’s warranty applicable, plus it keeps your furnace clean and ensures it will run perfectly during the upcoming heating period.
3 Other Furnace Smells You Shouldn’t Dismiss
While it’s less common for a new system to need furnace repair, it can happen. Here are three other scents you should look out for and what they might mean.
- Burning plastic or rubber. If your furnace smells like burning plastic, you might have an electrical difficulties. Electrical wiring is covered in plastic to prevent shocks, and this smell is an indication that heat is melting this precautionary coating. To avoid a fire, shut off your furnace immediately and have it examined out by an HVAC technician.
- Gas or rotten eggs. Gas companies include sulfur in natural gas to warn you when there’s a problem. If your furnace smells like gas or rotten eggs, shut it off immediately, get out of your home and dial 911. Exposure to natural gas can make you unwell, plus it’s very flammable and explosive.
- Musty. If your furnace smells musty, you might have mold and mildew developing in your ductwork. We suggest having your ductwork examined and cleaned if required.
Now that you are aware which furnace smells are normal and which ones aren’t, you’re well-equipped to take care of your new heater. If you have concerns about an odd odor, our Gee & Missler Heating & Air Conditioning HVAC technicians can help you. Call us at 734-284-1224 to schedule your appointment now. We offer quality, affordable furnace repair in Wyandotte and surrounding areas.
