Kenmore Water Heater: Smells Like Burning
A burning or gas smell needs immediate attention — shut it down and check the wiring or venting. Add a photo of your Kenmore Water Heater in the box below: the Triage Profile says what it is, how urgent it is, and who to call.
Show us the water heater.
Snap a photo — see what it is, how urgent, who to call. One photo of the problem. fixRAgent reads it and gives you a Triage Profile.
Or start with a sentence
AR Logic LLC · Privacy · Managing this for someone else? There is a version of this for whole portfolios. Managers: set it up for your buildings →
In the next five minutes
Safe first steps, before the call. Nothing here needs a tool.
If you smell gas, a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, or anyone feels dizzy or sick: don’t touch any switch or plug, leave and get everyone out, then call 911 or the gas company from outside.
Smoke or flames: get everyone out and call 911.
No gas smell, smoke or flames? Turn the water heater’s gas control knob to OFF if it’s gas, or switch off its breaker if it’s electric.
Everything else about this problem
Is it an emergency?
Is a burning smell from a Kenmore water heater an emergency?
Treat it as urgent. Turn it off and 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 burning smell from your Kenmore water heater often indicates an electrical issue, such as a failing heating element, loose wiring, or a burnt thermostat. This smell can also be caused by dust burning off the exterior of the unit or, more seriously, an overheating electrical component like a relay or circuit board. Ignoring this symptom can lead to further damage or even a fire, so immediate investigation is crucial.
Tools & parts
You will need a multimeter to test electrical components like heating elements and thermostats for continuity and proper voltage. A non-contact voltage tester is essential for safely confirming power is off before touching any wiring. Basic hand tools like screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead) and wire strippers will be necessary for accessing and repairing internal components.
Safety first
Immediately shut off all power to the Kenmore water heater at the circuit breaker or fuse box to prevent electrical shock or further damage. Also, turn off the cold water supply valve to the unit to prevent water leaks if you need to access internal components. Be aware of potential hazards like hot water, sharp edges, and live electricity, even after power is off, and always wear appropriate personal protective equipment like gloves and safety glasses.
When to call a pro
If the burning smell persists after checking basic electrical connections or if you observe visible charring on the wiring or circuit board, a professional technician is required. Complex electrical failures, such as a shorted heating element that trips the breaker or a malfunctioning high-limit thermostat, often necessitate specialized testing tools and expertise. Any signs of a gas leak (if it's a gas Kenmore model) or a persistent electrical burning smell that you cannot identify the source of, warrant immediate professional intervention due to fire risk.
Questions people ask
What is the most common cause of a burning smell from a Kenmore electric water heater?
The most common cause is often a failing heating element or a loose electrical connection at the element or thermostat. Dust accumulating on the hot exterior surfaces can also produce a temporary burning smell.
Can a burning smell indicate a fire hazard?
Yes, a burning smell from your Kenmore water heater is a serious warning sign and can indicate an imminent fire hazard. It's crucial to immediately shut off power to the unit and investigate the source.
How can I differentiate between a minor issue and a serious electrical problem?
A minor issue might be dust burning off, which dissipates quickly; a serious electrical problem will have a persistent, acrid smell, possibly accompanied by visible smoke, tripped breakers, or scorch marks. Always err on the side of caution and disconnect power.
Related problems
More Kenmore water heater problems
Check another symptom for your Kenmore Water Heater.
Smells like burning: other brands
Guides and hubs
A resident sent you this?
What a property manager should do when a resident reports a leaking water heater: the first message, how urgent, who to send.
The manager’s checklist →Ask AI about this problem
What it is, how urgent, who to call
Add a photo of your Kenmore Water Heater in the box at the top. The Triage Profile says what it is, how urgent it is, and who to call.