Dryer burning smell

Why does my dryer smell like it’s burning?

Dryer burning smell can be caused by several different issues. Follow these expert tips to find and resolve the cause of the burning smell.

Lint burning smell

If you smell lint burning, stop the dryer immediately. Check the flexible vent duct behind the dryer for lint buildup and clear lint out of that duct. Clear any lint buildup out of your home's dryer exhaust vent system as well.

Schedule dryer maintenance to have a technician visit your home and clear lint out of the inside the dryer cabinet. Don't continue using the dryer until you have the inside of the cabinet checked and cleaned by a technician.

A buildup of lint inside the cabinet can start a fire.

Wire Insulation Burning Smell

A short circuit in wiring or a component can cause a distinctive smell of burning wiring insulation. A short circuit or component failure on the electronic control board can cause that same smell.

If you detect the smell of burning insulation, unplug the power cord if you can safely reach it without touching the dryer or shut off the house circuit breaker to disconnect electrical power going to the appliance.

Remove the top panel and check the electronic control board and attached wiring for burnt wires and/or circuit board components.

Here’s a video that shows how to access the electronic control board in common Kenmore dryer models:

Schedule dryer repair service to have a service technician examine and repair the dryer if you find burnt wires and/or burnt spots on the circuit board..

Leave the dryer unplugged or disconnected from electrical power until you have it examined and serviced by a technician. A short circuit or damaged wiring in the dryer poses an electrocution risk to you and your household if you continue using the dryer.

Rubber Burning Smell

When you smell rubber burning, a worn dryer belt could be slipping or a problem with the drive system could be causing the drive belt to rub against the drum or idler pulley.

Overloading the dryer can cause the drive belt to rub against the drum. Check the size of the wash load and pull some items out if you see that the dryer is overfilled.

Unplug the dryer and remove the top dryer cabinet panel.

Examine the dryer belt and if you find it worn, replace the belt.

If you’re not completely confident that you can replace a damaged drive belt on your own, schedule service and we’ll send a Sears Home Services technician to your home to fix the dryer for you.

Metallic Burning Smell

Motor bearings can emit a metallic burning smell if they’re worn or damaged and overheat. You’ll also likely hear whining or squealing sounds when bearings go bad and are overheating.

Worn drum glide bearings or a worn out felt seal can allow the drum to scrape against the metal bulkhead in the dryer. You’ll likely hear metallic scraping noise when this occurs.

You’ll likely need to have a service technician examine the dryer and replace parts that are making metallic burning smells.

What to expect when you experience a dryer burning smell issue

How is the burning smell problem in a dryer fixed?

Addressing most instances of a burning smell typically requires replacing the heating element, idler assembly, or drum bearing. Nevertheless, given the various potential causes, conducting a comprehensive diagnosis is crucial for resolving the issue. An accurate diagnosis is vital for determining the extent of the repair needed.

Sears Home Services advice for resolving a dryer burning smell

If your dryer emits a burning odor, it could stem from various causes. To prevent unnecessary part replacements, we advise consulting a Sears Home Services expert to conduct diagnostic tests and pinpoint the underlying issue. Our skilled technicians specialize in diagnosing a wide range of dryer malfunctions.

What to look for with a dryer burning smell diagnosis

Understanding and diagnosing modern appliances without adequate knowledge and training can be challenging. Simply replacing parts without employing proper diagnostic methods may not effectively resolve the issue with your dryer. Over the past decade, appliances have evolved significantly, with many now incorporating complex electronic components that are challenging to assess. Consequently, do-it-yourself repairs on newer appliance models are becoming progressively more intricate.

A dryer with a burnt odor commonly has lint near the heating element or an overtaxed motor. Operating it further risks serious damage or fire. Power down and book a dryer repair near me check. Quick action preserves both appliance safety and your peace of mind.