Have you recently had a new furnace installed and are now experiencing a strange smell? You're not alone, because a lot of other homeowners also have this happen at first. Let’s review what’s creating this smell, and when you can anticipate it to subside, as well as three other furnace smells you shouldn’t disregard.

Why Your New Furnace Smells

There are two explanations why a new furnace might smell.

Protective Finishing

Your furnace has a special application on specific parts to keep them from rusting. This may include the heat exchanger, which safely removes gases such as carbon monoxide naturally made during the heating process.

When your furnace starts for the first couple of times, the coating may emit a burning smell. This is normal and the smell should dissipate 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 continues. A burning smell that remains can mean the motor is too hot or there’s an electrical problem, among other concerns.

Dust

Dust accumulates inside your furnace when it’s idle in warm weather. That dust will burn off when you turn on your furnace in the fall, making a burning smell. This smell should subside within a few minutes.

One way you can reduce or prevent this smell is by having furnace maintenance done every year. This is needed to keep your valuable manufacturer’s warranty applicable, plus it keeps your furnace clean and ensures it will run smoothly during the upcoming heating time of year.

3 Other Furnace Smells You Shouldn’t Dismiss

While it’s less common for a new system to require furnace repair, it happens. Here are three other scents you should keep an eye out for and what they might mean.

  1. Burning plastic or rubber. If your furnace smells like burning plastic, you might have an electrical difficulties. Electrical wiring is coated in plastic to avoid shocks, and this smell is an indication that heat is melting this preventive coating. To avoid a fire, switch off your furnace right away and have it inspected out by an HVAC technician.
  2. Gas or rotten eggs. Gas companies add sulfur to natural gas to signal you when there’s a problem. If your furnace smells like gas or rotten eggs, shut it off as soon as possible, get out of your home and dial 911. Exposure to natural gas can make you unwell, plus it’s very flammable and explosive.
  3. Musty. If your furnace smells musty, you might have mold and mildew growing in your ductwork. We advise having your ductwork inspected and cleaned if needed.

Now that you understand which furnace smells are normal and which ones aren’t, you’re prepared to take care of your new furnace. If you have concerns about a weird odor, our Marios Air Conditioning HVAC technicians can help. Give us a call at 760-314-4766 to schedule your appointment today. We supply quality, affordable furnace repair in Thousand Palms and surrounding neighborhoods.