Have you recently had a new furnace installed and are now experiencing a weird smell? You’re not alone, because plenty 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 reasons why a new furnace might reek.

Protective Finish

Your furnace has a special finish on specific parts to keep them from rusting. This may include the heat exchanger, which safely removes gases including 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 typical and the smell should disperse the more your furnace heats.

To be on the safe side, you’ll want to contact a heating and cooling company if the smell continues. A burning smell that remains can mean the motor has overheated or there’s an electrical problem, among other problems.

Dust

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

One way you can lessen or prevent this smell is by having furnace maintenance done every year. This is necessary to keep your valuable manufacturer’s warranty valid, plus it keeps your furnace clean and ensures it will run perfectly 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 happens. Here are three other smells you should watch 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 protect against shocks, and this smell is an indication that heat is melting this preventive coating. To avoid a fire, shut off your furnace right away and have it examined out by an HVAC technician.
  2. Gas or rotten eggs. Gas companies include sulfur in 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 ill, plus it’s extremely flammable and explosive.
  3. Musty. If your furnace smells musty, you might have mold and mildew developing in your ductwork. We advise having your ductwork examined and cleaned if required.

Now that you understand which furnace smells are normal and which ones aren’t, you’re ready to take care of your new furnace. If you have concerns about a strange odor, our Northern Comfort Inc HVAC technicians can assist you. Call us at 507-387-6596 to schedule your appointment today. We supply quality, affordable furnace repair in Mankato area and surrounding neighborhoods.