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KitchenAid Dryer has a burning smell

If your KitchenAid dryer smells like burning, start with the usual suspects: a clogged lint filter or venting packed with lint that restricts airflow. Excessive lint is the most common cause and can ignite near the heating element. Next check the drive belt; a stretched, frayed or slipping belt will rub and produce a hot burning odor, and while you’re in there confirm the drum and idler pulley turn freely. Electrical faults on the main control board are less common but important; a shorted component or scorched board gives off a chemical burning smell and should be inspected and replaced if you see burn marks. Some models use a blower belt or blower wheel, and a stuck blower or slipping blower belt will overheat and smell. If the idler pulley or idler assembly is seized the belt will slip and create heat and odor. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement belt, pulley, blower or control board for your dryer.

01 - KitchenAid 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 - KitchenAid 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 - KitchenAid 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 - KitchenAid 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 - KitchenAid 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 - KitchenAid 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?

Can I keep using the dryer if it smells like it's burning?

My dryer makes a grinding or squeaking noise when the drum turns and smells like burning. What should I check?

Could the dryer main control board cause a burning smell?

How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic to find the correct replacement part?

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