Stoves Overheating / Foreign Material on Heater

Dryer has a burning smell during operation

Advertisements

Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

Advertisements

Possible Causes

Lint buildup on heating element, Clothing caught near heater, Blocked exhaust vent, Failing motor overheating

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Turn off the dryer and unplug it immediately if you smell burning. Do not continue to run the appliance until the cause is found.

  • Inspect lint filter and vent: Clean the lint filter and check the vent hose and exterior vent for blockages.
  • Check for trapped items: Look inside the drum and around the door seal for items that may be rubbing and burning.
  • Access heater area: Remove the rear panel and inspect the heater housing for lint accumulation or fabric pieces. Vacuum thoroughly.
  • Motor check: If the smell seems electrical or comes from the base, inspect the motor for signs of overheating or burnt insulation. Replace the motor if damaged.
  • Test carefully: After cleaning, run the dryer empty for a short time while monitoring for any remaining odor.
Advertisements

Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Heating Element Assembly
Check Price on Amazon

We may earn a commission from links on this page.

Advertisements