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Frigidaire Dryer has a burning smell

If your Frigidaire dryer smells like something burning, act quickly but calmly: the most common cause is excessive lint build-up in the lint trap or venting, which can scorch or even ignite when the element or burner gets hot. Next most likely is a stretched, frayed or slipping drive belt that rubs and overheats; while you’re inspecting the belt, make sure the drum and idler pulley turn freely. A shorted main control board can also create a burning odor, so look for burn marks or melted components on the circuit board. Some models use a blower belt, and a stuck blower or worn blower belt will produce the same smell. Finally, a damaged idler pulley or idler assembly can let the belt slip and smoke. Clean lint and venting first, then inspect belts, pulleys and the control board and replace parts as needed. Enter your model number at RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement parts that fit your dryer.

01 - Frigidaire 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 - Frigidaire 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 - Frigidaire 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 - Frigidaire 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 - Frigidaire 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 - Frigidaire 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 a worn drive belt or idler pulley cause a burning smell or grinding noise?

Could the main control board or heating element be causing the burning odor?

My dryer is making loud noise when the drum turns. Which parts should I check?

How do I find and order the right replacement part on RepairClinic.com?

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