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HomeRepair HelpUniversal Refrigerator RepairUniversal Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell Repair
Universal Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell
A burning or musty smell coming from your refrigerator is usually a sign of an electrical component overheating or a hot bulb rather than a food problem. Start by checking the interior light first — an incandescent bulb that stays on when the door is closed will get hot and smell burnt. If the odor is near the back or bottom, inspect the compressor start device (start relay/overload); a failed start relay often causes the compressor to try to start and produce a burning smell and can lead to the refrigerator not cooling. Next check the power cord and wall receptacle for burn marks or a loose fit; a hot cord means a bad connection and is a safety risk. Less commonly, an overheating condenser fan motor, pinched or shorted wire connectors, or a failing control board will smell like burning. Use a multimeter to test motors and relays if you’re comfortable, and unplug the unit before working on wiring. Enter your model number at RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement parts you need.
01 - Universal 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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02 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 - Universal 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 - Universal 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?
Refrigerator not cooling and I smell burning, could the compressor start relay be the problem?
How do I tell if the burning smell is coming from the power cord and what should I do?
Is it safe to keep using my fridge if I smell burning?
How do I enter my model number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?
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