Dryer Smells Burnt? 5 Reasons Why and How to Fix It

1. Lint Buildup

Failing to remove lint from your dryer over time can cause trouble. When too much of it gathers in the trap, hose, or vent, it doesn’t just restrict airflow—it can overheat and start to smell like something’s burning. In more serious cases, this buildup could even become a fire risk.

How to Fix It

Always clear the lint screen once your laundry is done—doing this regularly helps prevent buildup over time. On top of that, it’s a good idea to give the vent system a deep clean annually. You can take care of it yourself, or bring in someone experienced with dryer maintenance to handle the task.

2. Faulty Thermostat

If lint isn’t causing the issue, the problem might lie with a malfunctioning thermostat. When this component stops working properly, it can fail to control internal heat levels, sometimes causing overheating and a burnt odor. For those familiar with basic tools, checking the thermostat with an ohmmeter can reveal whether it’s still functioning. If not, professional assistance may be necessary.

How to Fix It

If you’re comfortable working with appliances, replacing a broken thermostat isn’t too difficult. Start by disconnecting the dryer and giving it time to cool. Use your manual to locate and remove the thermostat. An ohmmeter can help you test it—any reading other than zero means it’s time for a replacement. To swap it out, carefully disconnect the attached wires with pliers, unscrew the faulty part, then secure the new one and reconnect everything just as it was.

3. Stuck Foreign Object

Items made of rubber or plastic that go unnoticed in pockets can sometimes end up near hot components inside the dryer, like the drum or heating element, and start to emit a burnt odor. After finding and removing the source, it’s wise to check all pockets thoroughly before starting the drying process to avoid a repeat of the issue.

How to Fix It

Take everything out of the dryer and inspect areas that are harder to see—especially close to the drum or heating element—for anything that shouldn’t be there. Once you’ve found and taken out the item, the odor will likely go away.

4. Bad Motor

If your dryer starts producing a strong burnt smell along with unusual noises during operation, the motor could be wearing out. Replacing it isn’t a simple fix and usually requires a trained technician to take a look and handle the job if a new motor is necessary.

How to Fix It

Consider contacting an SD Appliance Repair technician to inspect the condition of your dryer and assess whether the motor is still in good shape. If the unit has been in use for many years and is past its typical service life, it might be worth comparing the cost and benefits of fixing it versus investing in a new one.

5. Electrical Issues

Overheating caused by electrical malfunctions or shorted components might be what’s behind the burnt odor. If you’ve ruled out more common issues, it may be time to have an expert examine the internal wiring and electrical systems to see if they’re causing the problem.

How to Fix It

If you’re not a qualified electrician, it’s best to leave electrical repairs on your dryer to a trained SD Appliance Repair professional. Repair expenses usually range from around $140 to $440, depending on what needs fixing. A specialist can give you a more accurate quote after evaluating the dryer.

When to Call a Pro

You might want to get in touch with a dryer repair expert if:

• A part needs to be fixed or swapped out
• The issue is related to electrical components
• You’ve tried fixing it yourself but haven’t had any luck