Odors from a New Furnace: Are They Normal?

Getting a new furnace can be exciting. You can have the assurance of a comfortable home during the winter season and, being new, it will be at its peak efficiency which means savings on your fuel cost. However, odors may emanate from it the first few times you use it. It could indicate a problem — but does it? In this blog post, air conditioner repair company Superior Air discusses what causes these odors and what you can do with them.

Normal Odors

Most people expect the equivalent of the “new car” smell on their new appliances, and that is usually the case. On furnaces, some odors can become apparent the first time you turn it on. The following are to be expected and should go away by themselves:

• Dust and debris. Dust and some small pieces of debris can collect in the furnace while in storage, or when it’s not being used for a long time. They burn off when you switch on your furnace and result in a faint burning odor that goes away in a few minutes.
• Protective finish. Most parts of the furnace are coated or glazed with a protective finish that helps prevent corrosion. When switching on your furnace for the first time, the protective finish on the areas closest to the burner will get heated, which may give off a burning smell. This will also fade as you use the furnace. Keep these areas ventilated to stop the smells from spreading indoors.

Odors That You Shouldn’t Ignore

Your new furnace may also give off odors that shouldn’t be ignored.

• Rotten eggs. The smell of rotten eggs is caused by a sulfur-based additive used by gas companies to alert homeowners in case of a gas leak. Even if you get just a whiff, turn off your furnace, get everyone out of the house, and call for emergency services.
• Musty odors. A musty smell indicates the presence of mildew, which usually grows when moisture is blocking the condensate line of the furnace. Stop using your furnace and call your heating technician for inspection and repairs.
• Burning rubber or plastic. When electrical components overheat, the insulating components, made of rubber or plastic, burn. Shut off your furnace immediately and have it inspected by your HVAC technician.

Superior Air if you have these or any other problems with your HVAC system. Call is today at (559) 734-2002 or fill out our contact form to schedule an appointment. We serve Visalia, CA and the surrounding communities.