If your dishwasher smells like burning, turn it off immediately.
The most common causes are a faulty heating element, wiring issues, or plastic items melting near the heating coil.
Quick reference
- Burning plastic smell: Often caused by utensils or plastics falling onto the heating element.
- Electrical burning smell: Points to wiring, motor, or control board issues.
- Rubber or insulation smell: Can signal belt, gasket, or electrical insulation overheating.
- New dishwasher smell: Light burning odor is normal during first cycles as coatings burn off.
Burning smell from dishwasher: plastic, rubber, or electrical?
A burning smell from a dishwasher can mean different things depending on its source. If it smells like burning plastic, check for dishes, lids, or packaging that may have fallen onto the heating coil. A burning rubber smell usually comes from worn gaskets, hoses, or motor belts.
An electrical burning smell is more serious. It can be caused by overheating wires, a faulty control board, or a failing motor. According to the CPSC, overheating appliances are a leading cause of household fires, so any electrical burning odor should be taken seriously.
Common causes of a dishwasher burning smell
| Cause | What it means |
|---|---|
| Heating element contact | Plastic containers or utensils resting on the heating coil will melt, releasing a burning plastic smell. |
| Motor or pump failure | A motor working under strain can overheat and produce a burning rubber or electrical smell. |
| Worn gaskets or seals | Aging rubber parts may overheat or degrade, giving off a burnt odor. |
| Electrical wiring | Loose, frayed, or burnt wires can create a dangerous burning insulation smell. |
| Control board damage | Power surges or water intrusion may cause scorching on electronic boards. |
| Normal burn-off in new dishwashers | Light burning smells are normal during the first few cycles of brands like Bosch, LG, or KitchenAid as coatings and oils burn off. |
What to do if your dishwasher smells like burning
- If the smell is strong or electrical: Shut the dishwasher off at the breaker. Do not continue running it.
- For a burning plastic smell: Inspect the lower rack and heating coil for utensils or packaging that may have fallen.
- If no plastic is found and the odor persists: It is likely an internal electrical or mechanical issue that requires service.
Professional dishwasher repair is the safest option for electrical burning smells.
How to prevent a dishwasher burning smell
- Load carefully. Avoid letting lightweight plastic lids fall onto the heating coil.
- Check racks and filters regularly for debris.
- Inspect gaskets and hoses for wear.
- Schedule periodic maintenance to catch wiring or motor issues before they fail.
For more common dishwasher odor issues, see our guide on why dishwashers smell bad.
FAQ: Dishwasher Burning Smell
Why does my dishwasher smell like burning?
Most burning smells come from plastic touching the heating coil, worn rubber parts, or electrical overheating.
Why does my dishwasher smell like burning plastic?
Lightweight plastics can fall onto the heating element during cycles. Remove them immediately to stop melting odors.
Why does my dishwasher smell like burning rubber?
A burning rubber smell may indicate worn-out gaskets, hoses, or motor belts overheating inside the unit.
Why does my new dishwasher smell like burning?
Some new dishwashers from brands like Bosch, LG, or KitchenAid give off a temporary burning odor as protective coatings burn off in early cycles.
Why does my dishwasher smell like it’s burning during the wash cycle?
This could mean the heating element is overheating, or wiring is damaged. Shut off power and schedule a repair if the smell persists.
Dishwasher not smelling right? Book your repair today
If your dishwasher smells like burning plastic, rubber, or electrical wiring, don’t ignore it. ARS Repair Inc. provides expert dishwasher repair across Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, West Palm Beach, Hollywood, Coral Gables, Kendall, and nearby South Florida areas. Contact us today for fast service and peace of mind.