Whirlpool washer burning smell
Common reasons your Whirlpool washer has a burning smell
The most common reasons your Whirlpool washer has a burning smell are a broken motor, malfunctioning electronic control board or a damaged spin basket.
45% of the time it's the
Motor
22% of the time it's the
Electronic Control Board
14% of the time it's the
Spin Basket
19% of the time it's the
Something else
Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool washer
Motor Replacement
A broken washer motor will prevent the spin basket from rotating or agitating, and can also cause a variety of other issues that affect the washer’s ability to function properly. Signs that the motor is wearing out include unusual noises during operation, such as grinding or squealing sounds. The washer may also exhibit erratic spinning or agitation, with clothes not being properly rinsed or still soaking wet after the spin cycle. Additionally, a worn-out motor may lead to the washer not completing its cycles, stopping abruptly, or not starting at all. Burnt smells or overheating around the motor area can be indicative of internal problems. In some cases, visible damage to the motor itself may be apparent.
Electronic Control Board Replacement
A malfunctioning electronic control board can lead to various failures in a washer. This is because the board serves as the brain of the washer, controlling crucial components such as the water valve, drive motor, drain pump, and cycles. If the electronic control board fails, the washer may not power up or display the cycle status. Additionally, it might fail to fill, agitate, spin, or drain. In some cases, a shorted board may emit a burning smell.
Spin Basket Replacement
When a washer spin basket is damaged, it can create friction between the basket and other components. This increased friction generates heat during the spinning process, which can cause a burning smell. The heat may be a result of the damaged basket rubbing against the drum, causing both physical and thermal stress on the components. You may also notice unusual noise during the spin cycle or excessive vibration. If left unaddressed, a damaged spin basket can lead to further deterioration of the basket and surrounding parts.
What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool washer burning smell issue
How is the burning smell problem fixed?
Correcting most burning smell problems usually involves replacing the motor, electronic control board or spin basket. 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 washer burning smell
When the washer has a burning smell it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of washer failures.
What to look out for with a washer burning smell diagnosis
Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your washer 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.
What our customers say about us
With more than 1.3 Million 5 Star Reviews, you don't have to take our word for it
Thanks
Thanks for your expert analysis of the problem that caused the flooding of my home .I was scared the first few times I used the machine , but all is working great.
Frank U, Coconut Creek, FL
Excellent service.
Pleasant person to work with. He explains things to you.
Jacklyn J, Bessemer, AL
Very Professional
Very professional, thoughtful and knowledgeable I would highly recommend him.
Marilyn W, Covington, LA
Repair Washer Resources
Learn how a mixing valve works to control water temperature in a washer.
Learn why your washer drum is loose and banging around and get professional advice on fixing it. Contact Sears Home Services for a reliable repair service.
Learn how a hall sensor works in a washer to control spin basket speed and direction.
Discover if it's worth fixing a Maytag washer with Sears Home Services.
Glossary Terms
Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.
A washing machine pedestal is a platform that raises the washer off the ground, providing easier access to the appliances and often includes additional storage space such as drawers.
A washer tub is the interior part of a washing machine where clothes are placed for washing, typically made of stainless steel, plastic, or porcelain-coated metal, designed to hold water and withstand the agitation or spinning during the wash cycle.
Fabric softener is a laundry additive used to soften and freshen clothing, reduce static cling, and make fabrics feel smoother.
Additional possible Whirlpool washer symptoms you may experience
- Whirlpool washer won't stop filling
- Whirlpool washer won't spin or drain
- Whirlpool washer won't turn off
- Whirlpool washer won't start cycle
- Whirlpool washer vibrates
- Whirlpool washer rinse cycle not working
- Whirlpool washer not working
- Whirlpool washer not turning on
- Whirlpool washer not starting
- Whirlpool washer not spinning
- Whirlpool washer not sensing
- Whirlpool washer not rinsing
- Whirlpool washer not finishing the cycle
- Whirlpool washer not filling
- Whirlpool washer not draining
- Whirlpool washer not agitating
- Whirlpool washer noisy
- Whirlpool washer no water
- Whirlpool washer no power
- Whirlpool washer making loud banging noise on spin cycle
- Whirlpool washer leaking from bottom
- Whirlpool washer control lock won't turn off
- Whirlpool washer cold water not working