Whirlpool dryer burning smell

Common reasons your Whirlpool dryer has a burning smell

The most common reasons your Whirlpool dryer has a burning smell are an open heating element, broken idler assembly or a worn drum bearing.

  • 62%

    62% of the time it's the Heating Element

  • 16%

    16% of the time it's the Idler Assembly

  • 13%

    13% of the time it's the Drum Bearing

  • 9%

    9% of the time it's the Something else

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Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool dryer

Heating Element Replacement

An open heating element could cause a burning smell in your dryer if the element shorts against metal inside the cabinet. You may smell a metallic odor or wiring insulation burning when the broken element touches metal. When you smell a burning odor coming from the dryer, shut the dryer off and have a Sears Home Services Technician visit your home and examine the dryer. The technician will check the heating element and replace it if it’s broken.

Idler Assembly Replacement

When you smell a burning odor coming from your dryer, a worn or broken idler assembly could be causing the smell. A bad idler assembly won’t tension the drive belt on the drum properly so the belt will slip across the drum and get hot quickly. When you smell a rubbery burning odor coming from the dryer, you’ll need to have a Sears Home Services Technician visit your home and examine the dryer. The technician will replace the idler assembly if it’s broken.

Drum Bearing Replacement

A burning smell coming from your dryer could be caused by a worn drum bearing. The drum bearing normally prevents friction between the drum and the cabinet as the drum spins. When the drum bearing wears out, friction between the drum and the cabinet can cause remnants of the worn drum bearing to get hot and start smelling like burning metal or plastic. When you smell a burning odor coming from your dryer, have a Sears Home Services Technician visit your home and replace the drum bearing if it’s worn out.

What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool dryer burning smell issue

How is the burning smell problem fixed?

Correcting most burning smell problems usually involves replacing the heating element, idler assembly or drum bearing. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a dryer burning smell

When the dryer has a burning smell it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts, we recommend scheduling a Whirlpool dryer repair with a Sears Home Services professional who can perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced in diagnosing all types of dryer failures.

What to look out for with a dryer burning smell diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dryer problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

Addressing a Whirlpool Dryer that Smells Like Burning

If your Whirlpool dryer smells like burning, it's crucial to address the issue promptly to prevent potential hazards. Here are some additional reasons your dryer might emit a burning smell and steps you can take:

One often overlooked cause of a burning smell in a Whirlpool dryer is lint buildup in the vent system. When lint accumulates in the dryer vent, it restricts airflow and can cause the dryer to overheat, leading to a burning smell. Regularly cleaning the lint filter after each load can help prevent this issue. It's important to periodically clean the dryer vent system to remove any accumulated lint. You can use a vent cleaning brush or hire a professional to ensure the vent is thoroughly cleaned.

Faulty electrical components can also cause your Whirlpool dryer to smell like burning. Damaged wiring, a malfunctioning motor, or issues with the dryer's internal circuitry can produce a burning odor. If you suspect electrical problems, it's best to unplug the dryer immediately and consult a professional technician. Electrical repairs can be complex and hazardous, so professional assistance is recommended to avoid potential risks.

Overloading the dryer with too many clothes can strain the motor and other components, causing them to overheat and emit a burning smell. To prevent this, always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for load size. Ensure that you don't pack the dryer too full and allow adequate space for clothes to tumble freely.

Taking preventive measures can help you avoid future instances where your Whirlpool dryer smells like burning. Regular maintenance and timely repairs are key to ensuring your dryer operates safely and efficiently. Schedule routine maintenance checks with a professional technician to inspect and clean internal components, ensuring they are in good working condition. Address any unusual smells or sounds immediately by contacting a qualified repair service. Early intervention can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

By understanding these additional causes and implementing preventive measures, you can keep your Whirlpool dryer running smoothly and safely. Remember, if your Whirlpool dryer smells like burning, it's important to act quickly to identify and resolve the issue, ensuring your home remains safe and your appliance functions properly.

A scorched odor in a Whirlpool dryer can come from lint near the heater or a motor straining under friction. Running it can risk a fire. Turn it off and contact dryer repair near me. Skilled checks ensure safe operation and fresh laundry results.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool dryer emitting a burning smell?
A burning smell may be caused by lint buildup, a faulty heating element, or a worn-out belt. Check these components for blockages or damage.
Could a clogged lint trap cause my Whirlpool dryer to emit a burning smell?
Yes, lint buildup can restrict airflow, causing the dryer to overheat and produce a burning smell. Clean the lint trap and vent regularly to avoid this issue.
How can I fix a Whirlpool dryer that’s emitting a burning smell?
Check the lint trap, vent, and heating element for blockages or wear. Replacing any damaged parts should eliminate the smell.
What should I do if my Whirlpool dryer continues to emit a burning smell after cleaning the lint trap?
If the smell persists, check the motor, belt, or internal wiring for damage. A professional inspection may be necessary if the issue continues.

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Glossary Terms

A dryer drum is the main interior component of a clothes dryer where clothes are placed to be dried. It rotates during the drying cycle, allowing heated air to circulate through the clothes.

A dryer filter, commonly known as a lint filter, is a component of a clothes dryer that captures lint and other debris from clothes during the drying process, preventing them from clogging the dryer vent.

A dryer pedestal is a platform that elevates a dryer off the ground, making it easier to load and unload laundry while also providing additional storage space in some models.

A dryer rack is an accessory for clothes dryers that provides a stationary platform to dry items without tumbling, ideal for delicate or bulky items, or shoes that might be damaged by the usual drying cycle.

Whirlpool dryer burning smell & easy fixes to try today!