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HomeRepair HelpJC Penney Dryer RepairJC Penney Dryer has a burning smell Repair

JC Penney Dryer has a burning smell

A burning smell coming from your dryer is usually a warning you should not ignore. Start with the most likely causes: check the lint filter and venting for heavy lint buildup, since trapped lint can overheat and ignite; clean the trap and vent before any further testing. If the smell persists, inspect the drive belt for wear, fraying, or slipping and confirm the drum and idler pulley turn freely, because a slipping belt will heat up and smell like burning. Less common but possible causes include a shorted main control board that shows burn marks, a stuck blower or worn blower belt, and a bad idler pulley or idler assembly that allows the belt to rub. Unplug the dryer before you look inside and replace any damaged belts, pulleys, or the control board as needed. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your dryer and the right instructions to guide the repair.

01 - JC Penney 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 - JC Penney 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 - JC Penney 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 - JC Penney 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 - JC Penney 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 - JC Penney 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 burning?
My dryer is making grinding noise and smells like it's burning — what parts cause both?
Can the main control board cause a burning smell?
How can I tell if the burning smell is lint or an electrical problem?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?

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