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HomeRepair HelpRefrigerator RepairRefrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell Repair
Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell
If your refrigerator has a bad or burning smell, start with the simplest checks and work toward the compressor and electrical parts. Sometimes what looks like the refrigerator light not working is actually a bulb that stays on because the door switch is faulty, and an incandescent lamp left lit can overheat and smell. Next likely culprit is a failed compressor start device or relay; if the smell comes from the compressor area and the compressor is trying to start but cannot, the start relay or overload kit may be burnt. Inspect the power cord and wall receptacle for loose connections or burn marks, since a hot cord is a common source of odor. If the smell seems to come from the exterior, check the condenser fan motor and nearby wiring for overheating or shorted connectors, and test components with a multimeter. Less commonly a shorted control board or burned wire connector will be the cause. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part and step by step parts that fit your refrigerator.
01 - Refrigerator Light Bulb
Make sure the light is not staying on when the door is closed. A regular incandescent bulb can get hot and produce a burning smell.
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Top Solution
02 - Refrigerator Compressor
The compressor start device, also known as a start relay or start relay and overload kit, may have failed. This will usually cause the compressor to not start. If the burning smell is coming from the compresser area check the start device. If the start device smells burnt, or the compressor is trying to start but can't, the start device is likely bad and will need to be replaced.
Highly Likely
03 - Refrigerator Power Cord
Inspect the power cord prongs and wall receptacle for burn marks. The cord should plug tightly into the receptacle. A power cord that is hot is a sign of a bad connection. If the power cord is burnt or damaged it will need to be replaced. If the cord is loose in the receptacle, the receptacle will need to be replaced by a licensed electrician.
Common
04 - Refrigerator Condenser Fan Motor
If the burning smell appears to be coming from the exterior of the refrigerator, it's possible the condenser fan motor is wearing out or overheating. You should inspect the component for any burn marks, especially near the wire connection points, and use a multimeter to test the motor for electrical continuity to help determine if the component has burned out.
Less Common
05 - Refrigerator Wire Connector
Inspect the wiring and connectors in the area of the smell. A bad connection or pinched or shorted wire can produce a burning smell.
Less Common
06 - Refrigerator Control Board
If one of the components has failed it can produce a burning smell from that area. Look for a stuck fan motor or a shorted control board.
Less Common
Frequently Asked Questions
Could a fridge light not working or staying on cause a burning smell?
My fridge not cooling and I smell burning — is the start relay or compressor to blame?
My refrigerator runs constantly and I smell something burning, could the condenser fan motor or power cord be responsible?
How can I tell if the refrigerator control panel not working or wiring is causing the burning smell?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?
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