Kenmore Dryer: Smells Like Burning
A burning smell commonly means lint built up near the heating element or a failing motor — stop use. Add a photo of your Kenmore Dryer in the box below: the Triage Profile says what it is, how urgent it is, and who to call.
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In the next five minutes
Safe first steps, before the call. Nothing here needs a tool.
If you smell gas: don’t touch any switch or plug, leave, then call the gas company or 911 from outside.
Smoke or flames: get everyone out and call 911.
No gas smell, smoke or flames? Stop the dryer and switch off its breaker; keep the door shut, and don’t touch a hot or melted plug.
Everything else about this problem
Is it an emergency?
Is a burning smell from a Kenmore dryer an emergency?
Treat it as urgent. Turn it off and unplug it or switch off its breaker, and do not use it again until the cause is found. If you see smoke or flames, or smell gas, get everyone out and call 911.
Symptoms & causes
A Kenmore dryer smelling like burning often indicates lint accumulation, a failing motor, or an electrical issue. The smell can range from a dusty, burnt odor to a more acrid electrical smell, intensifying with heat. This symptom suggests that components are overheating, which could be due to restricted airflow or friction from a worn part.
Tools & parts
A long lint brush or vacuum hose attachment is essential for cleaning the dryer's interior and vent. A basic screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead) and a nut driver set will be needed to access internal components. For electrical tests, a multimeter might be necessary to test components like the thermal fuse or heating element.
Safety first
Always unplug your Kenmore dryer from the wall outlet and turn off its dedicated circuit breaker before performing any inspection or repair. Failure to disconnect power can result in severe electrical shock or even death, as internal components carry high voltage. Be aware that overheating lint or faulty electrical parts can pose a significant fire hazard, so proceed with caution and ensure proper ventilation.
When to call a pro
If the burning smell persists after thorough cleaning and component checks, a failing drive motor with seized bearings could be the culprit, requiring specialized replacement. A shorted heating element or a malfunctioning control board, which can cause continuous heating or incorrect cycling, often necessitates professional testing and repair. Any persistent electrical burning smell, especially accompanied by smoke or sparks, indicates a serious internal wiring fault best handled by a certified appliance technician to prevent fire.
Questions people ask
Why does my Kenmore dryer smell like burning after cleaning the lint trap?
Even with a clean lint trap, lint can accumulate in the dryer's exhaust vent or inside the dryer cabinet around the heating element. This trapped lint can overheat and cause a burning smell during operation.
Can a new drive belt cause a burning smell in my Kenmore dryer?
Yes, a brand new drive belt might initially emit a slight burning rubber smell as it 'breaks in' and seats properly on the pulleys. This should dissipate after a few cycles; if it persists or is strong, the belt might be misaligned or too tight.
Is it safe to use my Kenmore dryer if it smells like burning?
No, it is not safe to continue using your Kenmore dryer if it smells like burning. This indicates a potential fire hazard from overheating components or lint, and you should stop using it immediately and unplug it.
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What it is, how urgent, who to call
Add a photo of your Kenmore Dryer in the box at the top. The Triage Profile says what it is, how urgent it is, and who to call.