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HomeRepair HelpKelvinator Refrigerator RepairKelvinator Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell Repair
Kelvinator Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell
A burning or unusual odor from your Kelvinator refrigerator usually has a simple cause you can pinpoint without calling a pro. Start by checking the interior light: an incandescent bulb that stays on with the door closed can get hot and smell like something is burning, so verify the light is switching off and test or replace the bulb—this also ties to refrigerator light not working issues. Next likely is a failed compressor start device or start relay; if the compressor is trying to run but won’t start and you smell burning near the compressor area, the start relay is a prime suspect and can cause the refrigerator not cooling. Inspect the power cord and wall receptacle for burn marks or a loose fit, then check the condenser fan motor for overheating or worn windings using a multimeter. Less common but possible causes are shorted or pinched wire connectors and a failing control board or stuck fan. Enter your model number on RepairClinic.com to see the exact replacement parts and step-by-step guidance for your specific refrigerator.
01 - Kelvinator 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 - Kelvinator 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 - Kelvinator 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 - Kelvinator 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 - Kelvinator 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 - Kelvinator 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
My refrigerator is not cooling and smells like something is burning; what could be causing that?
Can the refrigerator light cause a burning smell?
Freezer cold but fridge warm; could a bad start relay be the problem?
How can I check the condenser fan motor, wire connector, or control board if I smell burning?
How do I enter my model number on RepairClinic.com to find the correct replacement part?
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