Before calling a repairman (or woman), try these steps to see if you can fix the problem yourself. In most cases, a burning smell coming from your dryer is nothing to worry about.
Built-Up Lint
A burning smell originating from the dryer is often caused by built-up lint in the lint trap. Lint is highly flammable, so be sure to keep the lint trap clean. Make sure you clean the lint trap after every wash to prevent clogs and build-up. To prevent clogs and build-up, you should also clean the lint duct at least once a year.
Holes In The Dryer Drum
A burning smell can also be caused by holes or tears in the dryer drum. These holes can let clothes come into contact with the heating element, causing them to smolder or even catch fire. Do not use your dryer until it is repaired if you find holes or tears in the drum.
Damaged Wires
Frayed or damaged wires are another cause of a burning smell coming from your dryer. If you see any bare wires or signs of damage, stop using the dryer and contact a repair service as soon as possible.
Foreign Objects
Finally, look around the heating element area for foreign objects that may be causing the problem—things like coins, screws, nails, etc. If you find anything, take it out and run another load of laundry to see if that solves the problem.
A professional, such as Capital Appliance Repair Tampa, should be called in if none of these solutions work. A burning smell coming from your dryer can be alarming, but it doesn’t always mean that your dryer is on fire. Most of the time, the problem is caused by something relatively minor, such as built-up lint or frayed wires. But if none of these steps help, it’s best to hire a professional. Whenever your dryer emits a burning smell in the Tampa area, call us at (813) 437-5133 or contact us today. We offer same-day dryer repair services.