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HomeRepair HelpJenn Air Dryer RepairJenn Air Dryer has a burning smell Repair

Jenn Air Dryer has a burning smell

If your Jenn Air dryer smells like burning, act quickly but calmly — that odor usually points to a mechanical issue rather than a mysterious electrical fire. The most common causes, in order, are excessive lint trapped in the lint filter or venting, a stretched or frayed drive belt slipping on the drum, and a shorted main control board. Less likely but still common are a worn blower belt or a seized idler pulley or idler assembly that lets the belt slip and overheat. Start by unplugging the dryer, removing lint and vacuuming the vent path, then spin the drum and blower by hand to check for binding. Inspect belts and the idler for frays, glazing, or seized bearings and look at the control board for burn marks or scorched components. Replace any damaged parts and test the machine. If you need the right replacement, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your specific dryer.

01 - Jenn Air Dryer Lint Filter

Excessive lint build-up in the dryer can be a fire hazard. The element or burner can cause the lint to catch on fire. It is recommened to clean out the dryer and dryer venting at least once a year.
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02 - Jenn Air Dryer Drive Belt

A drive belt that is stretched, worn or frayed can slip producing a burning smell. If the belt is damaged also check that the drum and idler pulley turn freely.
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03 - Jenn Air Dryer Main Control Board

A dryer's main control board controls the voltage being sent to all of the appliance's electrical components. The board itself can become shorted and produce a burning smell. You should inspect the board for any burn marks or a shorted components and replace if necessary.
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04 - Jenn Air Dryer Blower Belt

Some dryer models use a belt to run the blower. If the blower gets stuck or the blower belt is worn, loose and slipping, it can produce a burning smell. Confirm the blower turns freely and replace the belt if needed.
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05 - Jenn Air Dryer Idler Pulley

The idler pulley keeps tension on the belt to prevent it from slipping. If the idler wheel is damaged or stops turning, the belt can slip on the drive pulley, producing a burning smell. If your idler pulley is damaged or doesn't turn, you should replace it. Replacing the drive belt is also recommended.
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06 - Jenn Air Dryer Idler Assembly

The idler pulley assembly keeps tension on the belt to prevent it from slipping. If the idler wheel is damaged or stops turning, the belt can slip on the drive pulley, producing a burning smell. If your idler pulley assembly is damaged or doesn't turn, you should replace it. Replacing the drive belt is also recommended.
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Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dryer smell like something is burning?
My dryer smells like burning when the drum turns — could it be the drive belt or idler?
Could an electrical component cause a burning smell in my dryer?
Is it safe to keep using the dryer if I smell burning?
How do I enter my model number or part number at RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?

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