Dishwasher Burning Smell? Common Causes and Solutions

A burning smell coming from your dishwasher should not be ignored. The odor may be caused by an overheating electrical component, a damaged heating element, a failing motor, burnt wiring, or an object that has come into contact with an exposed heating element.

If the burning smell is strong, continues after the dishwasher is turned off, or is accompanied by smoke, sparks, unusual noises, or a tripped circuit breaker, disconnect power to the dishwasher immediately and do not operate the appliance until the cause has been identified.

This troubleshooting guide explains the most common reasons a dishwasher may smell like it is burning and provides practical steps to help identify the possible cause.

Safety Warning: Disconnect electrical power at the circuit breaker before inspecting internal components or removing dishwasher panels. Electrical problems may create a fire or shock hazard. If you notice smoke, melted wiring, severe overheating, or electrical damage, contact a qualified appliance technician.

1. Damaged or Shorted Dishwasher Heating Element

The heating element heats the water and helps dry the dishes. If the element is damaged, shorted, or overheating, it may produce a burning smell.

Inspect the heating element for visible signs of damage, including:

  • Blisters or raised areas
  • Cracks or breaks
  • Burn marks
  • Discoloration
  • Melted material attached to the element

Possible solution: Disconnect power and inspect the heating element. Use a multimeter to test the element for electrical continuity. If the heating element is damaged or does not have continuity, it may need to be replaced.

2. Faulty Dishwasher Timer

Some dishwasher models use a mechanical timer to control power to different components during the wash cycle. A power surge, electrical failure, or malfunctioning component may cause the timer to overheat or short circuit.

Possible symptoms:

  • A burning or electrical odor near the control area
  • Burn marks on the timer
  • The dishwasher stops during a cycle
  • The timer does not advance correctly
  • The dishwasher operates unpredictably

Possible solution: Inspect the dishwasher timer for burn marks, melted areas, discoloration, or other visible damage. If the timer is damaged or has failed, replace it with the correct timer for your dishwasher model.

3. Defective Dishwasher Drain Valve

Some dishwashers use a drain valve and electrical solenoid to control water drainage. If the drain valve solenoid develops an electrical fault, it may overheat and produce a burning smell.

Possible solution: Inspect the drain valve and solenoid for burn marks, damaged wiring, or signs of overheating. Test the solenoid for electrical continuity using a multimeter. If the solenoid is defective, the complete drain valve assembly may need to be replaced.

4. Burnt or Damaged Dishwasher Power Cord

Loose or damaged electrical connections can create resistance and excessive heat. Over time, this may cause wire insulation, connectors, or the dishwasher power cord to overheat and produce a burning odor.

Possible signs:

  • Burnt or melted wire insulation
  • Discolored electrical connectors
  • Loose wiring connections
  • A burning smell near the dishwasher junction box
  • A warm or damaged power cord

Possible solution: Disconnect power and inspect the power cord, electrical connections, and dishwasher junction box. Make sure all connections are secure and free from damage. Burnt or damaged wiring should be replaced and properly repaired.

Warning: Electrical wiring repairs should be performed by a qualified technician if you are not experienced with appliance electrical systems.

5. Faulty Dishwasher Control Module

The dishwasher control module supplies electrical power to various components. A power surge, short circuit, or failing component may cause the module to overheat and produce a burning smell.

Possible solution: Inspect the control module for burn marks, melted plastic, damaged connectors, or other signs of electrical failure. If the module is visibly damaged or testing confirms a failure, replace it with the correct replacement part.

6. Damaged Dishwasher Control Board

The dishwasher control board controls and supplies power to many appliance components. If the control board experiences a power surge or develops an internal electrical fault, it may overheat or emit a burning odor.

Possible symptoms:

  • Burning smell near the control panel
  • The dishwasher stops unexpectedly
  • Buttons or display functions stop working
  • Burn marks or damaged components are visible on the board
  • The dishwasher operates incorrectly

Possible solution: Disconnect power and inspect the control board for burn marks, damaged components, melted areas, or signs of overheating. If the control board is damaged, it may need to be replaced.

Because control boards can be incorrectly diagnosed, inspect related components and wiring before replacing the board.

7. Defective Main Control Board

The main control board manages many of the dishwasher's electrical functions. A power surge or failure in another component may cause the board to short circuit or overheat.

Possible solution: Inspect the main control board for burn spots, damaged connectors, melted components, or visible electrical damage. Replace the board if it is damaged or testing confirms that it has failed.

Before installing a replacement control board, check related components and wiring to help prevent the new board from being damaged by an unresolved electrical problem.

8. Failing Dishwasher Pump and Motor Assembly

The dishwasher circulation pump and motor move water through the spray arms during the wash and rinse cycles. A failing or overheated motor may produce a burning smell.

Possible symptoms:

  • The dishwasher fills with water but does not spray
  • The motor is silent after the dishwasher fills
  • The dishwasher makes a humming sound
  • The wash cycle stops or does not continue
  • A burning odor develops during the wash cycle

Possible solution: Inspect the pump and motor assembly for signs of overheating or failure. If the motor is not operating correctly and testing confirms that the assembly is defective, replace the pump and motor assembly.

9. Shorted Dishwasher Drain Solenoid

The drain solenoid activates the drain valve and allows water to leave the dishwasher. If the solenoid develops an electrical short or overheats, it may produce a burning or electrical odor.

Possible solution: Inspect the drain solenoid and its electrical connections for burn marks, melted insulation, or signs of overheating. Test the solenoid for electrical continuity using a multimeter. Replace the drain solenoid or compatible drain solenoid kit if it is defective.

10. Damaged Dishwasher Rack Roller

A worn or damaged dishwasher rack roller may fall off the rack and land near or directly on the heating element. If the roller comes into contact with a hot heating element, the plastic may melt and create a burning smell.

Possible symptoms:

  • A plastic burning odor
  • Melted plastic inside the dishwasher
  • A damaged or missing rack roller
  • The dishwasher rack does not slide smoothly

Possible solution: Inspect the upper and lower dishwasher racks for missing, loose, cracked, or damaged rollers. Check the bottom of the dishwasher tub and the heating element for melted plastic. Replace any damaged rack rollers and remove melted material only after the dishwasher has completely cooled.

11. Plastic, Wood, or Other Items Touching the Heating Element

Dishwashers with exposed heating elements may allow small items to fall through the racks. Plastic utensils, lids, containers, wooden items, or damaged rack components may come into contact with the hot heating element and melt or burn.

Possible symptoms:

  • A burning plastic smell
  • Melted utensils or container lids
  • Smoke or a strong odor during the drying cycle
  • Melted material on or near the heating element

Possible solution: Turn off the dishwasher and allow it to cool completely. Remove any items that have fallen onto the heating element. Check the dishwasher racks for damaged or missing components that may have allowed objects to fall through.

To help prevent future problems:

  • Place lightweight plastic items securely on the upper rack.
  • Keep plastic containers away from exposed heating elements.
  • Do not place wooden utensils or other heat-sensitive items near the bottom of the dishwasher.
  • Inspect rack rollers and rack components regularly.

How to Troubleshoot a Dishwasher Burning Smell

Before replacing any parts, follow these basic troubleshooting steps:

  • Stop the dishwasher if the burning smell is strong or continues.
  • Disconnect power at the circuit breaker.
  • Allow the dishwasher to cool completely.
  • Check for plastic, utensils, lids, or other objects near the heating element.
  • Inspect the heating element for damage, blisters, cracks, or burn marks.
  • Check the dishwasher racks and rollers for broken or missing components.
  • Inspect the power cord, junction box, and electrical connections.
  • Look for burnt wiring, melted connectors, or damaged insulation.
  • Inspect the control module, timer, and control boards for visible burn marks.
  • Check the pump and motor assembly for overheating or failure.
  • Inspect the drain valve and drain solenoid when applicable.
  • Do not restore power until damaged components or wiring have been repaired.

When to Stop Using the Dishwasher

Do not continue operating the dishwasher if you notice:

  • Smoke or sparks
  • A strong electrical burning smell
  • Melted wires or connectors
  • A hot power cord
  • Repeatedly tripped circuit breakers
  • Visible electrical damage
  • A burning smell that continues after the dishwasher is turned off

Disconnect power and have the dishwasher inspected by a qualified appliance technician.

Find the Correct Dishwasher Replacement Part

Dishwasher electrical and heating components vary by model. Parts that look similar may use different electrical connections, mounting locations, wattage ratings, or control systems.

To help ensure compatibility, always search for replacement parts using the complete dishwasher model number from the appliance identification label.

Enter your dishwasher model number to find compatible replacement parts, including:

  • Dishwasher heating elements
  • Dishwasher timers
  • Drain valves
  • Drain solenoids and solenoid kits
  • Dishwasher power cords
  • Control modules
  • Dishwasher control boards
  • Main control boards
  • Pump and motor assemblies
  • Dishwasher rack rollers

If you need help identifying the correct replacement part, send us the complete dishwasher model number and a clear photo of the appliance identification label before placing your order.