Tumble Dryer Smells Burning
If your tumble dryer smells burning, you should stop the machine immediately and unplug it from the mains. A burning smell from a tumble dryer should always be taken seriously — it can indicate a fire risk and must be investigated before the machine is used again.
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Why Does My Tumble Dryer Smell of Burning?
A burning smell from a tumble dryer must always be taken seriously. Switch the machine off at the mains and unplug it immediately if you notice a burning smell during a cycle. Allow it to cool completely before investigating. Do not restart the machine until the cause has been identified and resolved.
Common Causes
Blocked lint filter or lint build-up
The most common cause. A heavily blocked lint filter causes the machine to overheat, which can cause lint inside the machine to scorch and produce a burning smell. The lint filter must be cleaned after every single drying cycle. Lint can also accumulate inside the machine over time and should be cleared periodically.
Blocked exhaust duct (vented dryers)
A blocked or kinked exhaust duct traps hot air inside the machine, causing overheating and a burning smell. The duct should be checked and cleaned regularly.
Item of clothing or foreign object touching the heating element
A small item of clothing or a foreign object that has escaped the drum and come into contact with the heating element will produce a burning smell. Check inside the drum and the lint filter housing for any items that should not be there.
Worn drive belt
A worn or slipping drive belt can produce a burning rubber smell as it slips against the drum or motor pulley.
Worn drum glides or bearings
Worn drum glides or rear bearings can produce a burning or acrid smell as they overheat from friction.
Electrical fault
A burning electrical smell — often described as a sharp or acrid smell — can indicate a fault with the motor, control board or wiring. This requires immediate professional attention.
New machine smell
A mild burning smell during the first one or two cycles of a brand new dryer is normal and is caused by manufacturing residues burning off. This should clear quickly and not persist beyond the first couple of uses.
Checks To Try Before Calling An Engineer
Stop the machine and unplug immediately
Switch off at the mains and unplug the machine. Do not restart it until you have identified the cause.
Clean the lint filter thoroughly
Remove the lint filter and clean it completely. Check inside the filter housing for any build-up of lint that may have accumulated around the heating element area.
Check the drum for foreign objects
Remove all laundry and check inside the drum for any items that should not be there, particularly near the drum seal and at the back of the drum.
Check the exhaust duct (vented dryers)
Inspect the exhaust duct for any blockages or kinks. Clean out any lint accumulation inside the duct.
When To Contact A Professional
If the burning smell persists after cleaning the filter and checking for foreign objects, or if the smell is electrical in nature, do not use the machine again until it has been inspected by a qualified engineer. A persistent burning smell indicates a serious fault that poses a potential fire risk. Internal components should only be inspected or repaired by trained professionals.
Related Tumble Dryer Fault Guides
Tumble Dryer Stopping Mid-Cycle
Tumble Dryer Making Loud Noise
Tumble Dryer Taking Too Long To Dry
Related Guides
Tumble dryer error codes — all brands
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