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HomeRepair HelpWhirlpool Refrigerator RepairWhirlpool Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell Repair
Whirlpool Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell
If your Whirlpool refrigerator has a bad or burning smell, start with the simplest check: make sure the interior light is not staying on. A hot incandescent bulb is a common source of a burning odor. If the smell seems to come from the compressor area or the fridge is not cooling, the compressor start device or start relay is a likely next suspect; a burnt relay or a compressor that tries to start but cannot will give off a hot, electrical scent. Also inspect the power cord and wall receptacle for burn marks or a loose fit, since a poor connection will heat up. If the odor appears external, check the condenser fan motor for overheating and test it with a multimeter. Finally, look over nearby wiring and connectors for pinched or shorted wires and consider the control board if a fan is stuck or an electronics failure is obvious. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to find the exact replacement start relay, bulb, fan motor, wiring harness, or control board that fits your refrigerator.
01 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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 - Whirlpool 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?
The smell seems to come from the back near the compressor. What should I check first?
Can the refrigerator light cause a burning smell?
How can I test the condenser fan motor or start relay to see if they are bad?
How do I enter my model number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?
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