How to Address a Persistent Electrical Burning Smell From Your Oven

Electrical burning smells from your oven can be alarming and should be addressed immediately to prevent a larger problem from occurring. Depending on the severity, the proper steps to take can vary, but understanding the root cause of the problem is key to addressing it.

One of the most common causes of a burning smell from your oven is a dirty heating element. Many modern ovens have a heating element at both the top and the bottom of the unit. If these elements become dirty, they will not heat evenly, which can cause them to burn, creating an unpleasant electrical smell.

If you believe the burning smell is being caused by a dirty heating element, first unplug your oven from the outlet and allow it to cool. Then, use a damp cloth or sponge and a solution of warm water and mild soap to clean the surface of the heating element. Once dry, you can plug the oven back into the outlet.

If the burning smell persists, you should have it serviced by a professional appliance repair technician. Most kitchen ovens are complex mechanical units and it is important to have any unknown odors identified and addressed immediately. A repair technician with the training and experience will be able to quickly identify the source of the smell and recommend a course of action for repair.

In summary, if you detect an electrical burning smell from your oven, the cause must be identified and addressed quickly. Take the necessary steps to clean the heating element, and if the smell persists, contact a professional appliance repair technician to service the unit. Don’t hesitate to seek assistance and find a qualified appliance repair contractor in your area with our Directory of Appliance Repair Technicians.