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HomeRepair HelpRoper Refrigerator RepairRoper Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell Repair
Roper Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell
If your refrigerator smells like something is burning, start with the easy checks and work toward the electrical bits. First make sure the fridge light is not staying on; an incandescent bulb that stays lit with the door closed can get hot and give off a burning odor. Next likely culprit is the compressor start device or start relay; if the compressor is trying to start but cannot, a failing start relay often smells burnt. Inspect the power cord and wall receptacle for scorch marks or a loose fit, since a bad connection will get hot. If the smell comes from the back or exterior, check the condenser fan motor and its wire connections for overheating or burned insulation. Also inspect nearby wire connectors and harnesses for pinches or shorts, and consider the control board if a component is stuck or shorting out. Always unplug the refrigerator before probing electrical parts. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement part for your specific refrigerator.
01 - Roper 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 - Roper 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 - Roper 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 - Roper 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 - Roper 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 - Roper 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
Why does my refrigerator smell like something is burning?
Can a refrigerator light bulb cause a burning smell?
Freezer is cold but the fridge is warm and I smell burning; could the start relay be bad?
How can I tell if the condenser fan motor or wiring is overheating?
How do I enter my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to get the right replacement?
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