Choose Product

Identify Problem

Find Solutions

Kelvinator Dryer has a burning smell

A burning smell coming from your Kelvinator dryer usually means something is rubbing, slipping or overheating. The most likely causes, in order, are excessive lint build-up in the lint filter and venting, a stretched or frayed drive belt that is slipping, a shorted or burned main control board, a stuck blower or worn blower belt, and a seized idler pulley or idler assembly that lets the belt slip. Before you dig in, cut power to the dryer and, for gas models, turn off the gas. Check and clean the lint trap and venting first, then spin the drum and blower by hand and inspect belts for glazing, fraying or slipping; look for burn marks on the control board. Replacing a damaged belt, idler, blower wheel or control board will usually stop the dryer burning smell and reduce the fire risk. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your dryer and follow the part-specific instructions for a safe repair.

01 - Kelvinator 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.

Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product

Need help finding your model number?

Shop all Kelvinator Dryer Lint Filter Parts

02 - Kelvinator 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.

Shop all Kelvinator Dryer Drive Belt Parts

03 - Kelvinator 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.

Shop all Kelvinator Dryer Main Control Board Parts

04 - Kelvinator 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.

Shop all Kelvinator Dryer Blower Belt Parts

Highly Likely

05 - Kelvinator 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.

Shop all Kelvinator Dryer Idler Pulley Parts

Highly Likely

06 - Kelvinator 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.

Shop all Kelvinator Dryer Idler Assembly Parts

Highly Likely

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my dryer smell like something is burning?

Can a worn drive belt or idler pulley make my dryer smell and squeak?

Is it safe to keep running the dryer if it smells like burning?

What should I check first when my Kelvinator dryer smells like it's burning?

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

Shop by Kelvinator Dryer Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Adhesive Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Bearing Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Belt Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Blower Wheel & Fan Blade Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Bracket & Flange Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Cap, Lid & Cover Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Circuit Board & Timer Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Drum & Tub Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Duct & Venting Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Fastener Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Filter Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Fuse, Thermal Fuse & Breaker Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Gas Burner & Control Valve Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Gasket & Seal Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Handle Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Heating Element Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Hinge Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Hose, Tube & Fitting Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Igniter Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Insulation Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Knob, Dial & Button Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Latch Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Leg, Foot & Caster Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Lighting & Light Bulb Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Lubricant Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Miscellaneous Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Motor Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Paint Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Panel Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Power Cord Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Pulley Replacement Parts

Kelvinator Dryer Pump Replacement Parts

Talk With Us

We can help you check an order, track a package, start a return, and more.

START A CHAT

Talk With Us

We can help you check an order, track a package, start a return, and more.

Join Repair Clinic's VIP email list for 10% off, plus other discounts and tips!

Our Story

Family-owned and operated since 1912, Burke America Parts Group is the longest-running genuine appliance, HVAC, and outdoor power equipment parts solution in North America. At Repair Clinic, we're proud to be an international brand trusted by the pros as well as the DIY community.

About Repair Clinic

Customer Stories Repair Parts BrandsDIY Repair Blog In the News