Unlock the Right Part
for Your Repair
Find the exact part you need
Enter your model number to see parts that fit your machine.
Price Match Guarantee
In-stock parts ship the same day
365-Day Return Policy
Price Match GuaranteeChoose Product
Identify Problem
03
Find Solutions
HomeRepair HelpHotpoint Refrigerator RepairHotpoint Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell Repair
Hotpoint Refrigerator has a bad smell or burning smell
A burning or chemical smell coming from your Hotpoint fridge usually points to a simple problem you can find without calling a pro. First check the interior light and make sure it is not staying on when the door is closed; an incandescent bulb that runs hot is a common cause. If the smell is coming from the back or bottom near the compressor, the start relay or start device may be failing and the compressor could be trying to start but cannot, which can also lead to a fridge not cooling. Next inspect the power cord and wall receptacle for burn marks or a loose fit, since a bad connection will heat up. Less commonly the condenser fan motor will overheat or a pinched wire or connector can short and smell burnt, and in rare cases a control board fault will be the source. If you need a replacement start relay, fan motor, light bulb, cord, or control board, enter your model number at RepairClinic.com to find the exact part that fits your refrigerator.
01 - Hotpoint 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.
Enter model number to search for the required part specific to your product
Top Solution
02 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 - Hotpoint 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 the refrigerator light cause a burning smell?
How can I tell if the compressor start relay is bad?
Could the condenser fan motor or wiring be causing the smell and how do I check them?
How do I use my model number or part number on RepairClinic.com to find the right replacement part?
Shop by Hotpoint Refrigerator Parts
Shop by Popular Hotpoint Refrigerator Models
Our Story
Family-owned and operated since 1912, Burke America Parts Group is the longest-running genuine appliance, HVAC, and outdoor power equipment parts solution in North America. At Repair Clinic, we're proud to be an international brand trusted by the pros as well as the DIY community.
About Repair Clinic
© 2026 RepairClinic.com