Have you ever gone to do a load of laundry and noticed a burnt smell coming from your dryer?
This is a common issue that homeowners face and it can be due to a variety of reasons.
In this blog we’ll be answering the question of why does my dryer smell burnt and what can I do to fix it?
Overheating of Dryer Parts
The main cause of a burnt smell coming from a dryer is due to the overheating of certain parts.
The most common parts that can cause this issue are the heating element the igniter and the belt.
As these parts become worn they can become clogged with lint and debris which can cause them to overheat and create a burning smell.
Wiring Problems
Another possible cause of a burnt smell from a dryer is due to wiring problems.
If the wiring has been damaged or shorted out it can create a burning smell as the electricity passes through the damaged wiring.
This can also cause the dryer to become sluggish or even stop working completely.
Lint Build Up
Lint build up is another common cause of a burnt smell from a dryer.
Lint can get into the dryer and build up on the heating element igniter and belt which can cause them to overheat and create a burning smell.
If the lint build up is not taken care of it can lead to a fire hazard.
Repairing a Burnt Smelling Dryer
If you have noticed a burnt smell coming from your dryer the first step is to unplug the dryer and take a look inside.
Check the heating element igniter and belt for any signs of lint or debris build up and clean it out if needed.
If there appears to be any wiring issues you should call a professional to come and check it out.
Possible Causes
There are several potential causes for a burnt smell coming from your dryer.
Depending on the root cause the steps to address the problem might vary.
Let’s take a look at the most common causes.
Lint Filter
One of the most common causes of a burnt smell coming from your dryer is a lint filter that is clogged with lint and debris.
When the lint filter is blocked it can cause the dryer to overheat leading to a burning smell.
Mechanical Issues
Another potential cause of a burning smell coming from your dryer is a malfunctioning belt or motor.
If the belt or motor is damaged it can cause the dryer to overheat leading to a burning smell.
Dryer Vent
The dryer vent can also be a potential source of a burning smell.
If the vent is clogged or blocked it can cause the dryer to overheat leading to a burning smell.
Electrical Issues
Finally a burning smell could also be caused by electrical issues.
This can be due to a faulty outlet wiring or even a bad fuse.
How To Fix It
Now that we’ve identified the possible causes of a burning smell coming from your dryer let’s take a look at the steps you can take to address the issue.
Clean The Lint Filter
If the lint filter is clogged with debris this is a simple fix.
All you need to do is to clean the lint filter with a vacuum cleaner or a brush.
Check The Dryer Vent
If the dryer vent is blocked or clogged this can also be an issue.
You should check the vent for lint or debris and clean it out if necessary.
Inspect The Belt & Motor
If the belt or motor is malfunctioning you should replace the belt or motor as necessary.
Check The Electrical Connections
If the issue is electrical in nature you should check the electrical connections to make sure everything is properly connected and in working order.
Conclusion
If your dryer is producing a burning smell there are several potential causes.
You should clean the lint filter check the dryer vent inspect the belt and motor and make sure the electrical connections are all in good condition.
If you’re unable to determine the cause of the issue or if the issue persists after making the necessary repairs you should call a professional to inspect and repair the dryer.
Final Thoughts
A burnt smell coming from a dryer is usually caused by overheating parts wiring issues or lint build up.
In order to prevent this issue from occurring you should make sure to regularly clean out your lint trap and check the wiring of your dryer.
If you do notice a burnt smell coming from your dryer then you should disconnect it right away and take a look inside to see what the issue might be.
