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Speed Queen Dryer has a burning smell

If your Speed Queen dryer smells like burning, don’t ignore it — a burning smell usually points to lint build-up rubbing against the heating element or burner, so start by cleaning the lint trap and venting and check for lint caught around the element. The next most likely cause is a worn or slipping drive belt that heats from friction, so inspect the belt and make sure the drum and idler pulley turn freely. Less commonly, a shorted main control board can overheat and give off a burning odor, so look for burn marks or scorched components on the board. Some models use a blower belt, and a stuck blower or slipping blower belt can also produce that smell, while a damaged idler pulley or idler assembly will let belts slip and overheat. Take precautions, cut power before you work, and replace any damaged parts. Enter your model number at RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement parts that fit your dryer.

01 - Speed Queen 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 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 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 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 - Speed Queen 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 - Speed Queen 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 is making a grinding or squeaking noise when the drum turns. What parts should I check?

Can a slipping drive belt cause a burning smell?

How often should I clean the lint filter and vent to prevent a fire hazard?

How do I enter my model number at RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?

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