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HomeRepair HelpMagic Chef Refrigerator RepairMagic Chef Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell Repair
Magic Chef Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell
A burning or plastic-like smell from your Magic Chef refrigerator usually means something is running hot or shorted out. The most common causes are an interior light that stays on and gets hot, followed by a failed compressor start device or start relay that makes the compressor try to start and overheat. Next check the power cord and wall receptacle for burn marks or a loose fit, since a hot plug is a classic sign of a bad connection. Less commonly the condenser fan motor can wear out and overheat, and pinched or damaged wire connectors can short and produce a smell. A failed control board or a stuck fan can also generate heat and odors. If the compressor or start relay is at fault you may also notice the fridge not cooling or the refrigerator not getting cold. Inspect the light, plug, compressor area, fan and wiring, and if you need parts enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your refrigerator.
01 - Magic Chef 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 - Magic Chef 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 - Magic Chef 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 - Magic Chef 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 - Magic Chef 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 - Magic Chef 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
Refrigerator not cooling: could a burning smell mean my compressor or start relay is failing?
Freezer cold but fridge warm: what parts should I check?
Refrigerator light not working or staying on: can a light bulb cause a burning smell?
Refrigerator control panel not working: can a faulty control board cause burning smells or other failures?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?
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