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Hotpoint Dryer has a burning smell

If your Hotpoint dryer smells like something burning, don’t panic but do act fast. The most common cause is lint buildup in the lint filter or venting, which can heat up around the element or burner and produce a strong burning odor, so clean the lint trap and vent path first. Next most likely is a worn or slipping drive belt that rubs and creates a hot, rubbery smell; if the belt looks frayed or stretched check that the drum and idler pulley spin freely. A shorted main control board or scorched components can also give off an electrical burning smell, so inspect the control board for burn marks and replace it if needed. Less likely, but still possible, are a sticking blower or a worn blower belt and failing idler pulley or assembly that cause friction and overheating. If you need parts, enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to pull up the exact replacement parts and step-by-step guides so you can fix the dryer burning smell safely and get the dryer back into service.

01 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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?

Could the dryer belt or idler pulley cause a burning smell?

How can I tell if the main control board is causing the burning smell?

What should I do right now if my dryer smells like it's burning?

How do I use my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?

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