If you’ve noticed a burning odor coming from your washing machine, don’t panic. This post covers some of the most common reasons for a burning smell and how to fix them. With a few troubleshooting tips, you’ll be back to fresh loads of laundry in no time!
What’s Causing That Burning Smell?
There are a few culprits that could be behind that unpleasant burning odor emanating from your washer:
Blocked Vents
Lint and debris can accumulate in the washing machine’s internal vents over time. This buildup prevents proper airflow and can lead to overheating of internal components. The burning smell is likely plastic or rubber pieces overheating.
To fix this issue, thoroughly clean the vents so air can flow freely again. Refer to your machine’s owner’s manual for vent locations and the best cleaning methods. Using a vacuum hose attachment is usually very effective for sucking out lint buildup.
Faulty Heating Element
If your washing machine has an internal heater to boost water temperature, a failing heating element could be the source of burning smells. As elements age, they can short circuit or spark, singing plastic hoses or tub material.
You’ll need to replace a faulty heating element right away to prevent worse damage. Appliance repair technicians can accurately diagnose and replace bad heating elements. Thankfully elements are inexpensive compared to other washer components.
###Drive Belt Issues
Problems with the rubber drive belts inside a washer can also lead to burning odors. If belts become loose, worn out, or oily, the friction between belt and pulley creates a burning rubber smell.
Examine drive belts for obvious wear and check pulley alignment. Replacement belts are inexpensive and simple to swap out yourself with basic tools. Online videos can provide visual step-by-step instructions.
When to Call a Repair Professional
While the issues above are often DIY fixable, it’s smart to call an appliance repair tech if:
- You notice smoking or hear unusual grinding noises
- Attempting DIY repairs isn’t improving the situation
- You smell gas or detect electrical sparking
Washing machine repairs by certified pros can apply specialized diagnostic tools to safely identify issues. They have training to thoroughly fix problems so clothes emerge fresh and machines run optimized.
The Takeaway
If you start noticing a hot or burning smell coming from your washing machine, don’t delay inspection and repairs. Addressing problems quickly can prevent more expensive damages down the road. With some diligent troubleshooting and component replacements, that fresh laundry feeling will return in no time!
References
Appliance Repair Technical Training Institute. “Washing Machine Repair Guide: Burning Smell Causes.” Accessed January 2023. https://www.artti.com/posts/washing-machine-repair-guide-burning-smell-causes
Lowe’s. “3 Reasons Your Washer Smells Like Burning & How to Fix It.” Accessed January 2023. https://www.lowes.com/n/how-to/3-reasons-your-washer-smells-like-burning-how-to-fix-it
The Home Depot. “Washing Machine Troubleshooting Guide.” Accessed January 2023. https://www.homedepot.com/c/washing_machine_troubleshooting_guide
Laura has had an enthusiasm for laundry ever since she was a teenager experimenting with wash cycles. She went on study textile science in college before working in product testing.
Soon, Laura found friends and family constantly asking her laundry advice, realizing she had become an unofficial laundry guru. The questions kept coming in, so Laura decided to start sharing laundry tips online to help more people. The enthusiastic response led her start the blog “Laundry How”.
Now in her late thirties, Laura uses Laundry How to tackle all kinds of laundry topics – stains, fabric care, detergents, and more. She provides advice from both her studies and experience testing techniques out firsthand. Laura continues to grow an engaged community of laundry learners, feeling fulfilled empowering people to make laundry an easy, confidence-building ritual rather than a dreaded chore.