Kenmore Dryer: burning heating elements

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

Is your Kenmore dryer emitting a burning smell or excessive heat? This could indicate serious issues like faulty heating elements, restricted airflow, or electrical problems. Overheating can lead to scorching odors and even visible burning, posing a fire risk. Act quickly to diagnose and resolve the issue.

Urgency: High

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

  • Sears Home Services notes common repairs for Kenmore include heating element, idler assembly, and drum bearing for burning smell issues

Possible Causes

Faulty or shorted heating element

How to Identify: Burning smell, visible damage to coil, overheating even when thermostat indicates off, hot air continuously; test with multimeter for continuity to case / open circuit.

Part: Heating element assembly

Restricted airflow / lint buildup causing overheating

How to Identify: Dryer overheats and smells burning without electrical smell; excessive lint on filter, in vent; slow drying times and high internal temperature.

Part: Vent/duct system and lint trap

Worn drive belt or idler causing friction heat

How to Identify: Burning smell with rubbing/ friction noises; belt looks cracked or frayed on inspection.

Part: Drive belt / idler pulley

Faulty thermostat or cycling control

How to Identify: Dryer overheats beyond set temperature with burning smell; thermostat fails continuity test.

Part: Thermostat / thermal cutoff

Motor overheating or electrical wiring issues

How to Identify: Burning electrical or plastic-like smell; unusual sounds from motor; malfunctioning electrical components.

Part: Motor / internal wiring

DIY Solutions

Clean lint trap and exhaust vent

Moderate 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: vacuum with hose, vent cleaning brush
  1. Unplug dryer and pull it away from wall
  2. Remove and clean lint trap after each load
  3. Disconnect vent hose and use vacuum/brush to remove lint buildup
  4. Ensure external vent flap opens freely
⚠️ Safety First: Always unplug before accessing internal parts

Inspect and replace drive belt

Advanced 1–2 hours
Tools Needed: screwdrivers, socket set
  1. Disconnect power and access dryer belt by removing panels
  2. Inspect belt for wear or fraying
  3. Remove old belt and install new correctly
  4. Reassemble panels and test dryer
⚠️ Safety First: Ensure correct belt routing to avoid damage

Test and replace thermostat/thermal cut-off

Advanced 1–2 hours
Tools Needed: multimeter, screwdrivers
  1. Disconnect power
  2. Access thermostat and thermal cutoff inside dryer
  3. Test continuity across thermostat and thermal cut-off
  4. Replace failed component with OEM part
⚠️ Safety First: Careful handling of electrical components recommended

Professional Repairs

Replace heating element assembly

Estimated Cost: $70 - $150

Electrical wiring or control board inspection and repair

Estimated Cost: $150 - $400

When to Call a Professional

Burning smell persists after cleaning lint and checking airflow
Electrical burning smell with sparks or unusual sounds
Multimeter tests indicate shorted heating element or wiring fault
Component replacement beyond DIY comfort

Preventive Maintenance

  • Clean lint trap: Lint buildup causing overheating and fire risk
    Frequency: after every load
  • Clean vent duct annually: Restricted airflow and overheating
    Frequency: annually

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Dryer burning heating elements?
Common causes include a faulty heating element, restricted airflow due to lint buildup, or worn drive belts causing friction.
How do I fix Kenmore Dryer burning heating elements myself?
Start by cleaning the lint trap and vent. For advanced repairs, inspect and replace the drive belt or test the thermostat.
How much does it cost to fix burning heating elements?
Professional repairs for burning heating elements typically cost between $70 and $150 for parts and labor.
When should I call a technician for burning heating elements?
Call a technician if you encounter frequent overheating, visible damage, or if DIY solutions do not resolve the issue.

References & Sources

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

65%
DIY Success Rate Difficulty: Either

Common Issues Reported by Users

  • Faulty heating element causing overheating
  • Insufficient airflow due to clogged vents or lint buildup
  • Electrical issues such as voltage surges or faulty wiring

User Suggested Solutions

  1. Inspect and replace the heating element if damaged. Disconnect the dryer from power, access the heating element, and check for any visible damage or continuity. Replace if necessary.

  2. Clean the dryer vent and lint filter to ensure proper airflow. Detach the vent hose and use a vacuum or brush to remove lint buildup. Reattach and test the dryer.

  3. Check electrical connections and wiring for damage. Inspect the power cord and outlet for signs of wear or overheating. If issues are found, repair or replace the damaged components.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

  1. My Kenmore dryer constantly burns up heating elements. It oc...

Community Discussions

constantly burns up heating elements, burns up wires, fries sensors

Check for electrical issues, replace off-brand parts, ensure proper airflow, and consider replacing old breakers.

DIY View on Reddit →

Source: Reddit r/appliancerepair

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