Smell from iMac 21.5 (2017) rear vent

I bought an iMac 21.5 (2017) (since it was the only available Mac in the store). I haven’t actually used it that much ever since I bought since online classes was pushed next month. I just updated to Big Sur , install Zoom, Chrome, Skype and MS Office, sync my email and did little browsing. I use it 2x a week max or not at all. First day of using it, iMac did emit a faint smell. I thought it was normal since it was my first time to use it. As I continue using it, I notice that the smell is getting stronger. Though I can only smell it if I get too close to the unit. I actually tried sniffing my Mac (LOL) and found out that it is coming from the rear vent. I’m trying to book for a repair but the nearest service center is packed. I just want to know if anyone had a similar experience. (I know Mac M1 is already out but I needed a computer asap because of online school also M1s were not locally available and the only Mac available was this one. )

iMac 21.5″, macOS 11.4

Posted on Jul 24, 2021 4:23 AM

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2 replies

Jul 24, 2021 4:24 PM in response to castlerish

It is hard to say what it could be without actually being able to smell it ourselves. If it smells like hot or burning electronics, then most likely the component that is overheating will burn itself out and some part of the iMac will no longer function. Since it is a used iMac it could be odors from any dust that is left inside the computer. If the iMac belonged to a smoker then that smoke odor can easily get trapped inside the iMac and be noticeable when the iMac heats up. It is very hard to get rid of cigarette smoke odor from a device.


If you purchased the refurbished iMac directly from Apple, then you do have a limited warranty on the computer so you definitely want to get the iMac checked out during the warranty period.

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Smell from iMac 21.5 (2017) rear vent

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