Beatrice Lang
Many people have reported that their new TVs have a strong, unpleasant odour. Some have described the smell as similar to burning plastic, blown capacitors, or overheated electronics. In some cases, the smell has triggered asthma, coughing, sore throat, runny nose, and headaches. While some believe that the smell may be normal during the break-in period, others have suggested that it could be due to the outgassing of mercaptans resulting from the use of sulfur compounds in the black plastics used by certain manufacturers.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| New TV causing an electrical smell | Yes, it is a common issue with new TVs |
| Effect on health | Sore throat, runny nose, headache, dizziness, coughing, choking, triggering asthma |
| Odor | Burning plastic, blown capacitors, overheated electronics, burning electricity or carbon, ozone |
| Brand | Visio, Samsung, Insignia, TCL |
| TV size | 24", 50", 65" |
| Resolution | 4K UHD, 1080p |
| TV type | LED, Smart TV, HDTV, Roku TV |
| Manufacturer's response | Odor is from the outgassing of mercaptans due to the use of sulfur compounds in black plastics |
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What You'll Learn
Is it normal for a new TV to smell?
It is not uncommon for new TVs to have a noticeable smell. This can be due to the new components heating up and getting 'burned in' from use. However, some people have reported that the odour from their new TVs is very strong and unpleasant, resembling burning plastic or electricity. In some cases, it has even been reported to trigger asthma and cause headaches and sore throats.
It is worth noting that the black plastics used by some manufacturers, such as Samsung, are hardened with sulfur compounds, which can result in the outgassing of mercaptans and contribute to a strong odour. While it is understandable that a slight smell may be present, an overpowering or noxious odour is not something that should be tolerated. If the smell is affecting your health or is simply too strong to bear, it is best to remove the TV from your living space and contact the manufacturer or retailer.
If you are experiencing an unpleasant odour from your new TV, there are a few initial steps you can take. Firstly, check if everything is functioning correctly and there are no signs of TV failure. If the TV appears to be working fine, you may want to air out the TV by placing it outdoors or in a well-ventilated area for a day or two to see if the smell dissipates. Additionally, check if your warranty covers this issue and allows for a replacement if needed.
It is important to prioritise your health and comfort. If the smell persists or is affecting your well-being, do not hesitate to return the TV and seek a replacement or alternative model. Your retailer should be able to assist you with this process and provide guidance on selecting a TV that does not have the same issue.
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What could be causing the smell?
There are several possible reasons for a new TV to emit a strong odour. One common cause is the presence of plastic components, which can emit a strong smell, especially when new. This is often described as a "burning plastic" or toxic smell, and it can be strong enough to trigger asthma and other respiratory issues. Some manufacturers use compounds like zinc carbonate to reduce the odour, but it is still possible for some smell to be present.
Another potential cause is the presence of ozone, which can have a strong, sharp odour that may be reminiscent of other electrical appliances running hot. This could be due to the TV's power supply or other internal components. In some cases, the smell may be indicative of a faulty or overheated electrical component, which could pose a safety risk. If the smell is accompanied by any other signs of malfunction, such as unusual noises or smoke, it is important to unplug the TV and seek professional advice or a replacement.
It is worth noting that some people may be more sensitive to certain smells, and what is tolerable to one person may be overwhelming to another. Additionally, proper ventilation is crucial when dealing with any strong odours, as they can cause headaches, sore throats, and other discomforts.
If you are concerned about the smell coming from your new TV, it is always best to consult the manufacturer or retailer for advice, as they will have specific information about their products. They may recommend returning or exchanging the TV, or they may offer other solutions to mitigate the odour.
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Is the TV faulty?
It is not uncommon for new TVs to emit a strong odour, which some people describe as a burning or electrical smell. This is often due to the off-gassing of compounds such as mercaptans, which are used in the manufacturing process of the plastics that make up the TV. While it may be unpleasant, this smell is usually not an indication that the TV is faulty. Some people suggest that it will go away after a few days, or can be mitigated by leaving the TV outside or in a well-ventilated area.
However, if the smell is accompanied by other signs of malfunction, such as overheating or a change in picture quality, it may be cause for concern. A strong odour could indicate that an electronic component has failed or that the TV is running too hot, which could potentially lead to a fire hazard. In this case, it is important to unplug the TV and discontinue use to avoid any potential safety risks.
It is worth noting that some people have reported adverse health effects, such as headaches, sore throats, and asthma attacks, due to the strong odour emitted by their TVs. If you or anyone in your household is experiencing these or other negative symptoms, it is recommended to remove the TV from your living space and seek medical attention if necessary.
If you are unsure whether the TV is faulty, it is always best to consult the manufacturer or a professional technician. They can advise you on the specific model and provide guidance on whether a return or exchange is warranted. It is also important to refer to the warranty that came with your TV, as it should cover you in the event of a defect or malfunction.
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What to do about the smell?
If your new TV is emitting a strong, unpleasant odour, there are several steps you can take to address the issue:
Firstly, check if there is any visible sign of TV failure, such as smoke or unusual noises. If there are any indications of malfunction, it is best to turn off the TV and unplug it from the power source. Contact the manufacturer or a professional technician to inspect and rectify any potential issues.
If the TV appears to be functioning correctly, you may consider airing out the TV by placing it outdoors or in a well-ventilated area for a day or two. This will allow any strong smells to dissipate. However, if the odour is intolerable or affecting your health, it is best to avoid prolonged exposure. In such cases, moving the TV to a shed or deck can help isolate the smell from your living space.
Another option is to contact the retailer or manufacturer and inquire about a replacement. Many retailers offer warranties or return policies that may cover unpleasant odours. It is worth checking if other customers have experienced similar issues with the same model, as this may indicate a broader problem with that specific TV brand or model.
Additionally, you can try reaching out to the manufacturer to express your concerns and seek their advice. They may provide alternative solutions or offer insights into the materials used in the TV's construction, which could help identify the source of the odour.
If the smell persists or affects your health, it is essential to prioritise your well-being. Consider returning or exchanging the TV for a different model or brand. Your health is paramount, and if the TV is causing discomfort or adverse reactions, it is best to make alternative arrangements.
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Is the TV affecting health?
It is understandable to be concerned about the impact of a new TV on your health, especially if it is emitting an unusual odour. While a new TV may not directly affect your health, it is important to be vigilant about any potential signs or symptoms that may arise.
Some people have reported a strong odour coming from their new TVs, which has caused various physical reactions. These reactions have included sore throat, runny nose, and headache, dizziness, coughing, and asthma attacks. In such cases, it is advisable to remove the TV from the indoor environment and seek fresh air or medical attention if symptoms persist.
The source of the odour in some TVs has been attributed to the outgassing of mercaptans, which are sulphur compounds used to harden the black plastics in certain brands. Additionally, the initial heating up of new components during the "burn-in" period can also produce a distinct smell. While some odour may be expected, a strong or unusual smell could indicate a failed electronic component, which is typically characterised by a strong and distinct odour.
If you experience any adverse health effects or notice unusual odours coming from your new TV, it is recommended to contact the manufacturer or retailer. They may offer advice or suggest a replacement unit. It is also important to refer to the warranty information, as it may cover issues related to odour or performance.
In summary, while a new TV may not directly impact your health, it is important to be vigilant about any unusual odours or physical reactions. Taking prompt action, such as removing the TV from the indoor environment or seeking advice from the manufacturer, can help ensure your well-being.
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Frequently asked questions
It is normal for new TVs to emit a slight odour as the new components heat up and get 'burned in' from use. However, if the odour is very strong and reminiscent of burning plastic, blown capacitors, or overheated electronics, it may be cause for concern. Some users have reported adverse health effects such as sore throat, runny nose, headache, coughing, and asthma attacks triggered by the odour. If you experience any negative symptoms, it is recommended to remove the TV from your living space and contact the manufacturer or retailer to request a replacement.
The exact cause of the strong smell from new TVs is not definitively known, but it may be attributed to the outgassing of certain chemicals used in the manufacturing process. Some users have speculated that it could be related to the use of sulfur compounds in the black plastics used by certain manufacturers, such as Samsung.
If your new TV continues to emit a strong electrical smell, it is recommended to unplug the TV and discontinue its use. You may consider contacting the manufacturer or retailer to discuss your options, which may include a repair, replacement, or refund. It is important to prioritise your health and safety, so if the smell is causing any discomfort or health issues, do not hesitate to take prompt action.
