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Tappan Dryer has a burning smell

If your dryer smells like burning, start with the most common and easily fixed causes: excessive lint buildup in the lint trap or venting can smolder or ignite, so clean the filter and vent thoroughly before anything else. Next check the drive belt and related parts; a stretched, frayed or slipping belt will rub and smoke, especially if the drum or idler pulley is not turning freely. After belts, inspect the main control board for scorched components or burn marks, since a shorted board can produce a chemical or electrical burning smell. Some models use a separate blower belt that can overheat if the blower is stuck, and a seized idler pulley or idler assembly will also let the belt slip and create odor. Work methodically: clean, spin the drum by hand, look for visible damage, and replace any worn belts, pulleys or a damaged control board. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to pull up the exact replacement part you need for your dryer.

01 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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 - Tappan 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 burning when I run it?
Is it safe to keep using a dryer that has a burning smell?
Dryer smells like burning and is making grinding or squeaking noises; could the belt or idler pulley be to blame?
Can a main control board cause a dryer burning smell?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?