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Speed Queen Commercial Dryer has a burning smell

If your dryer has a burning smell or your dryer smells like burning, don’t ignore it — that odor usually points to a mechanical or electrical problem you can find without guessing. Start with the most likely culprit: excessive lint in the lint trap and venting, which can collect against the heating element or burner and smolder. Next check the drive belt for signs of glazing, fraying, or slipping; a slipping belt heats up and gives off a distinct burned-rubber smell. A shorted main control board or scorched components is the next possibility, so inspect the board for burn marks. Some models use a blower belt that can overheat if the blower is stuck or the belt is worn. Finally look at the idler pulley or idler assembly; if the pulley stops turning the belt can slip and overheat. Always cut power and shut off gas before inspecting the dryer. If you need a replacement part, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact part that fits your dryer.

01 - Speed Queen Commercial 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 - Speed Queen Commercial 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 - Speed Queen Commercial 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 - Speed Queen Commercial 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.
Highly Likely

05 - Speed Queen Commercial 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.
Highly Likely

06 - Speed Queen Commercial 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.
Highly Likely

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dryer smell like something is burning?
Can lint buildup actually cause a dryer to burn?
My dryer is making a grinding or squeaking noise and smells like something is burning. What should I check?
Could the main control board cause a burning smell?
How do I enter my model number to find the right replacement part on RepairClinic.com?