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HomeRepair HelpSub Zero Refrigerator RepairSub Zero Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell Repair
Sub Zero Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell
If your Sub Zero refrigerator smells like something is burning, start with the simple checks and work toward the electrical components most often at fault. The most common cause is a light bulb that stays on when the door closes; an incandescent bulb can get hot enough to smell burnt. Next likely is the compressor start device or start relay, which can burn out and stop the compressor from starting, leaving the fridge not cooling. Inspect the power cord and wall receptacle for burn marks or a loose fit, since a poor connection will heat up. If the odor seems to come from the back or base, check the condenser fan motor for overheating and use a multimeter to test continuity. Also inspect wire connectors and harnesses for pinched or shorted wires, and finally look at the control board for signs of burning or a stuck fan. If you smell burning, unplug the unit before inspecting. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement parts for your Sub Zero and speed the repair.
01 - Sub Zero 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 - Sub Zero 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 - Sub Zero 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 - Sub Zero 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 - Sub Zero 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 - Sub Zero 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
Fridge not cooling and there is a burning smell — what parts should I check?
Fridge light not working or staying on — can the bulb cause a burning smell?
Refrigerator making noise and smells like burning — could the condenser fan motor be the issue?
Refrigerator control panel not working and I smell burning — could the control board be the cause?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?
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