smell from new HVAC unit

[intimeagen]

Had 2 new through-the-wall HVAC units installed in my apartment from local small manufacturer called Ice Air.  Problem is that both units have a metallic, slightly oily smell even when unplugged.  I was initially concerned that they were reconditioned units presented as new and possibly sprayed with something.  But they look new:  all the wiring and labels are clean as are the fins and vents.  The units smell stronger when they're warm, either from operation or from ambient heat on the building or in the room.  Smell is not overtly unpleasant, but clearly not a good smell.  Installer said it was the transformers, but again, they smell even when unplugged.  Smell emanates from the inside of the unit when encasement door is opened as well as up through the vents when not in operation.  Any ideas?  I'd greatly appreciate some expert insight.  Thank you!

[Hiroshi]

Almost all metal that goes through a manufacturing process is coated with a thin sheen of oil to keep it from corroding while in storage/waiting to be sold. It should dissipate with time...

[intimeagen]

Thanks, Hiroshi. So I guess the metallic component of the smell is the interactivity of the oil with the metal, because if I understand metallurgy basics, metals don't fundamentally smell without a catalyst.

[Hiroshi]

It's hard to be scientifically certain without knowing what they coated it with... but yeah.