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    Repair Manual

    What Cause Burning Smell From The Dryer?

    Why does my dryer smell like it’s burning?

    When you notice a burning smell from dryer, there may be several different causes.

    First and foremost, this isn’t a good sign as it is a fire hazard.

    Therefore, stop using your dryer if you notice a burning smell from dryer.

    These are some of the common reasons it might smell like it’s burning

    1. There’s lint built up in the lint tray. Built up lint not only causes your dryer to take longer to dry clothing, but over time, can also be a fire hazard.
    2. Clean out the tray after each use to prevent buildup
    3. Vent hose blockage can also cause the fire smell
    4. Check the hose for built up lint
    5. Check the hose for kinks as this can cause less air to flow through freely and block up the connection
    6. Worn belt
    7. Similar to your vacuum cleaner, if you’ve ever changed a belt, you know that piled up rubber/broken belt can cause a fire smell; if the belt is damaged or broken, replace it in the dryer
    8. Thermostat failure (this will likely require you to call a professional repair tech to replace/repair it)
    9. The motor’s burnt out/failed, in which case it has to be replaced

    Sometimes, clothing can even cause this smell.

    If a small piece gets caught between the outside drum and dryer wall, it can get scorched. Although infrequent, make sure to avoid piling in too much clothing when using your dryer.

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    Can dryers catch on fire?

    Yes, it is possible for your clothes dryer to catch on fire. Some of the causes of this might be

    • Dryer vents aren’t properly cleaned/maintained (at least once annually)
    • Dryer vent fires are more common in winter months (sweaters, thicker clothing, wool, and heavier materials); so clean lint trays regularly
    • Too much lint buildup in the lint tray
    • Volatile chemicals on clothing
    • Pre-treat clothing that’s come into contact with gas, chemicals, toxic/toxins, oils, etc. When spinning at high heats, it can cause a fire
    • Heating element burning out

    Each of these are possible reasons that a dryer fire can occur. Regular maintenance and routine cleaning, are simple steps you can take to prevent a dryer fire.

    Why does my dryer smell like it’s burning?

    When you notice a burning smell from dryer, there may be several different causes.

    First and foremost, this isn’t a good sign as it is a fire hazard.

    Therefore, stop using your dryer if you notice a burning smell from dryer.

    These are some of the common reasons it might smell like it’s burning

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    1. There’s lint built up in the lint tray. Built up lint not only causes your dryer to take longer to dry clothing, but over time, can also be a fire hazard.
    2. Clean out the tray after each use to prevent buildup
    3. Vent hose blockage can also cause the fire smell
    4. Check the hose for built up lint
    5. Check the hose for kinks as this can cause less air to flow through freely and block up the connection
    6. Worn belt
    7. Similar to your vacuum cleaner, if you’ve ever changed a belt, you know that piled up rubber/broken belt can cause a fire smell; if the belt is damaged or broken, replace it in the dryer
    8. Thermostat failure (this will likely require you to call a professional repair tech to replace/repair it)
    9. The motor’s burnt out/failed, in which case it has to be replaced

    Sometimes, clothing can even cause this smell.

    If a small piece gets caught between the outside drum and dryer wall, it can get scorched. Although infrequent, make sure to avoid piling in too much clothing when using your dryer.

    Can dryers catch on fire?

    Yes, it is possible for your clothes dryer to catch on fire. Some of the causes of this might be

    • Dryer vents aren’t properly cleaned/maintained (at least once annually)
    • Dryer vent fires are more common in winter months (sweaters, thicker clothing, wool, and heavier materials); so clean lint trays regularly
    • Too much lint buildup in the lint tray
    • Volatile chemicals on clothing
    • Pre-treat clothing that’s come into contact with gas, chemicals, toxic/toxins, oils, etc. When spinning at high heats, it can cause a fire
    • Heating element burning out

    Each of these are possible reasons that a dryer fire can occur. Regular maintenance and routine cleaning, are simple steps you can take to prevent a dryer fire.

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