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Whirlpool dishwasher burning smell

Common reasons your Whirlpool dishwasher has a burning smell

The most common reasons your Whirlpool dishwasher has a burning smell are a defective electronic control board, damaged user interface control or a faulty pump and motor assembly.

  • 47%

    47% of the time it's the
    Electronic Control Board

  • 23%

    23% of the time it's the
    User Interface Control

  • 8%

    8% of the time it's the
    Pump and Motor Assembly

  • 22%

    22% of the time it's the
    Something else

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Most common repairs needed to fix a Whirlpool dishwasher

Electronic Control Board Replacement

A burning smell coming from your dishwasher could be caused by a defective electronic control board. The circuit board has a myriad of wires and small components that can short out and burn up – causing a burning smell. Also, defective electronic control board can send electrical current to the heating element at the wrong time and cause a burning smell to come from inside the dishwasher tub. When you smell a burning odor coming from your dishwasher, have a Sears Home Services Repair Expert visit your home and replace the electronic control board if it’s defective.


How to replace a dishwasher electronic control board

User Interface Control Replacement

A burning smell coming from your dishwasher could be caused by a damaged user interface control. An electronic component on the user interface control can short out and cause an electrical burning smell. When you detect an electrical burning smell coming from your dishwasher, disconnect power and have a Sears Home Services Repair Technician visit your home and examine the controls and components of the dishwasher. The technician will replace the user interface control if it’s damaged.

Pump and Motor Assembly Replacement

When you detect a burning smell coming from your dishwasher while it’s running, a faulty pump and motor assembly could be causing the odor. Wiring inside the pump motor will produce a rancid smell as wiring insulation gets hot and starts smoking. A bad motor bearing can produce a metallic burning smell. When you detect these types of smells coming from your dishwasher, it’s time to schedule a service call and have a Sears Home Services Technician check out the dishwasher and replace the pump and motor assembly if it’s faulty.

What to expect when you experience a Whirlpool dishwasher burning smell issue

How is the burning smell problem fixed?

Correcting most burning smell problems usually involves replacing the electronic control board, user interface control or pump and motor assembly. However, there are many potential causes, so a thorough diagnosis is key to fixing the problem. An accurate diagnosis is essential to understanding how much the repair will be.

Sears Home Services recommendations for a dishwasher burning smell

When the dishwasher has a burning smell it can be for many reasons. To avoid replacing unneeded parts we recommend having a Sears Home Services professional perform diagnostic tests to identify the root cause of the problem. Our technicians are experienced at diagnosing all types of dishwasher failures.

What to look out for with a dishwasher burning smell diagnosis

Diagnosing modern appliances without proper knowledge and training can be difficult. Without using proper diagnostic techniques, fixing your dishwasher problem will only be achieved through changing parts on a hunch. Appliances, especially in the last 10 years, have become extremely advanced, and many models have electronic parts that are difficult to test. DIY repairs on the latest appliance models are becoming increasingly difficult.

A burning odor from a Whirlpool dishwasher may indicate overheated wires or melted plastic parts. Allowing it to persist risks major damage and safety concerns. Rather than running it further, engage dishwasher technician near me. Quick repairs eliminate the heat source and preserve your appliance.

What our customers say about us

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Thorough

James called to give an estimated arrival time. He was professional and personable. He had 2 professional ideas of the problem and found 1 was correct, but he didn't stop there. He did a thorough check of the appliance. 1 small part was needed. He ordered the part to my house. Fortunately, he was able to schedule for the next week, just before Thanksgiving. As before, he called ahead, arrived and quickly fixed the problem. My appliance is working perfectly.


Kirsten A, Oxford, PA

Service Call

Luke was great. Polite and knowledgeable even though the dishwasher was older than he!


James G, Hillsboro, MO

Daniel

Daniel went above and beyond to fix my dish washer. Very pleasant to deal with.


Paul F, Hghlnds Ranch, CO

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  5. Dishwasher burning smell

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Whirlpool dishwasher emitting a burning smell?
A burning smell from the dishwasher could be caused by a malfunctioning motor, heating element, or electrical wiring. Inspect these components for damage.
Could a faulty heating element cause a burning smell in my Whirlpool dishwasher?
Yes, if the heating element is malfunctioning or short-circuiting, it can cause a burning smell. Replacing the heating element should resolve the issue.
How can I fix a Whirlpool dishwasher that’s emitting a burning smell?
Inspect the heating element and wiring for any visible damage or burns. Replacing damaged components should eliminate the smell.
What should I do if my Whirlpool dishwasher still smells after replacing the heating element?
If the smell persists, the motor or other electrical components may need to be inspected or replaced by a professional.

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Glossary Terms

A dishwasher sump is located at the bottom of the dishwasher, serving as a collection point for water during the wash cycle. It houses the main pump and filter, facilitating the recirculation and drainage of water, essential for the cleaning process.

A dishwasher turbidity sensor is an advanced feature that measures the level of food particles and debris in the water, allowing the dishwasher to adjust the wash cycle length and water usage for optimal cleaning efficiency.

Hard water is water that contains high levels of dissolved minerals, particularly calcium and magnesium. It contrasts with soft water, which has lower concentrations of these minerals.

An astragal is a molding or strip that covers or seals the gap between the edges of a pair of doors or windows. Its primary functions are to provide a weather seal, improve security, and improve the aesthetic appearance of door and window assemblies.

Additional possible Whirlpool dishwasher symptoms you may experience