If you have ever opened your dishwasher expecting sparkling clean dishes only to be greeted by a nasty burning smell, it’s not exactly the most pleasant experience, and it can definitely make you worry that something’s seriously wrong. But before you call a repair technician, there are a few things you can check and try yourself. Let’s examine some common causes of that burning smell and how to tackle them.

Overheated Plastic

One common culprit is overheated plastic. Sometimes, plastic utensils or containers can get too close to the heating element in your dishwasher, and this can cause them to melt or burn slightly. This can create that unpleasant burning smell. To avoid this, make sure you load your dishwasher carefully, and keep plastic items away from the heating element. You can also try using a lower temperature setting on your dishwasher to reduce the risk of overheating.

Burnt Food Particles

Another possible cause is burnt food particles. If they get stuck in the filter or around the heating element, they can burn and create a smoky smell. Make sure you scrape off any large food scraps before loading your dishes. You should also clean the filter regularly to prevent food buildup. If you notice any burnt food particles around the heating element, carefully remove them with a brush or a damp cloth.

Electrical Problems

In some cases, the burning smell might be due to an electrical problem, such as if the wiring in your dishwasher is faulty or the motor is overheating. This is definitely a situation where you should call in a professional. Don’t try to fix electrical problems yourself unless you have the proper training and experience. It’s best to leave it to the experts to avoid any safety hazards.

Other Potential Causes

There are a few other potential causes of a burning smell in your dishwasher. The drain hose might be clogged, and this will cause water to back up and create a musty odor. Or the dishwasher itself might be overheating due to a faulty thermostat or a problem with the ventilation. If you’ve checked the common causes and the smell persists, call a qualified technician to diagnose and fix the problem.

Keeping Your Dishwasher Fresh

To prevent future burning smells and keep your dishwasher running smoothly, there are a few things you can do. Clean the filter regularly, scrape off food scraps before loading dishes, and avoid overloading the dishwasher. You can also run a cleaning cycle with vinegar or baking soda every month or so to remove any lingering odors and keep your dishwasher fresh and clean.

So, the next time your dishwasher smells like something is burning, don’t panic. Try these troubleshooting tips and see if you can solve the problem yourself. And if the smell persists, don’t hesitate to call in the professionals. They can help you get to the bottom of the issue and ensure your dishwasher is working safely and efficiently. For dishwasher maintenance and repair in Rochester, NY, reach out to Nichols Electric and Plumbing.