Have you recently had a new furnace set up and are now experiencing an unusual smell? You’re not alone, because many other homeowners also experience this at first. Let’s review what’s creating this smell, and when you can anticipate it to go away, as well as three other furnace smells you shouldn’t neglect.
Why Your New Furnace Smells
There are two explanations why a new furnace might reek.
Protective Finish
Your furnace has a special application on some 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 runs for the first couple of times, the coating may give off a burning smell. This is normal and the smell should go away the more your furnace operates.
To be on the safe side, you’ll want to call a heating and cooling company if the smell lingers. A burning smell that lingers can mean the motor has overheated or there’s an electrical problem, among other problems.
Dust
Dust builds inside your furnace when it’s not running in warm weather. That dust will burn off when you turn on your furnace in the fall, creating a burning smell. This smell should disappear within a few minutes.
One way you can decrease or prevent this smell is by having furnace maintenance done every year. This is required to keep your valuable manufacturer’s warranty valid, plus it keeps your furnace clean and ensures it will run smoothly during the upcoming heating season.
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 smells you should keep an eye out for and what they might mean.
- Burning plastic or rubber. If your furnace smells like burning plastic, you might have an electrical issue. Electrical wiring is covered in plastic to protect against shocks, and this smell is a sign that heat is melting this preventive coating. To avoid a fire, turn off your furnace immediately and have it inspected out by an HVAC technician.
- Gas or rotten eggs. Gas companies add sulfur to natural gas to warn you when there’s a leak. If your furnace smells like gas or rotten eggs, turn it off right away, get out of your home and dial 911. Exposure to natural gas can make you ill, 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 inspected and cleaned if required.
Now that you understand which furnace smells are normal and which ones aren’t, you’re well-equipped to take care of your new heating system. If you have concerns about a strange odor, our SchagrinGAS Company HVAC technicians can help. Contact us at 302-231-1380 to schedule your appointment right now. We provide quality, affordable furnace repair in Middletown and surrounding areas.
