Q&A for How to Troubleshoot a Dryer That Smells Like It Is Burning

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Just replaced the Heating element on a Whirlpool Duet dryer. I started up the dryer for 30 seconds and got a burning smell. It's possible that I stirred up lint, but I'm concerned about wiring problems?

Community Answer

It either works or it doesn't as far as wiring problems go. If the smell hasn't gone away by now (break-in of the new element), then call in an appliance repairman.

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Question

My dryer stopped working and I opened the cabinet to inspect the fuses and found it in two pieces near the motor. What would cause the drum belt restrainer part to break in two?

Justin

Top Answerer

Continuously putting heavy loads in a dryer can cause excessive weight on the drum, the belt, and the pulley.

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Question

After about two minutes of running my dryer, it makes a low-pitched grinding sound from the rear. When on "fluff no heat," the sound does not happen.

Justin

Top Answerer

Depending on the brand and model of your dryer, the heating element can be located near (on on) the back) of the unit. When the heating element is activated by choosing a setting with heat, the heat is causing something to expand, causing the grinding sound. It may be best to have an appliance technician come and resolve this issue for you.

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Question

Our dryer was running and then we heard a pop. It stopped running and we smelled a hot or smoky odor. What might that be?

Community Answer

It could be a fuse or your wiring shorted, causing the sound. Have a technician diagnose the cause and resolve the issue(s).

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Question

Why is there water in the vent to the outside and a burning smell even after replacing the dryer coil?

Justin

Top Answerer

You may have excessive lint built up inside your dryer, dryer vent, dryer blower housing, and the vent that leads outside. The burning smell can result from lint buildup in various places. Burning smells are warning signs. It is advisable to have a technician inspect your unit and the dryer ventilation system.

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Is it bad if my dryer is shooting sparks?

Justin

Top Answerer

If your dryer is shooting sparks, this is a bad sign and likely indicates a wiring issue. You should have a professional appliance technician address the problem to prevent fire, shock, or further damage.

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What should I do if my dryer is humming but won't run, and it has a burning smell?

Justin

Top Answerer

The humming sound is likely coming from the motor. If your dryer has a burning smell, it's best to have a professional technician inspect it to avoid further damage.

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