Range smells like burning plastic or electrical

Symptoms

• Acrid, plastic-like or electrical smell rather than a sulfur/gas smell
• Smell may come with light smoke
• Could come from the control panel, a burner knob, or the back of the range
• May be accompanied by a burner or display acting oddly

Likely causes

• CommonOverheating wiring or a failing componentInsulation on wires can smell like burning plastic when overheating.
• CommonFood debris burning on an electrical igniter or switchMelted plastic utensils or food residue near hot electrical parts can smell similar to wiring issues.
• PossibleFailing control board or motor (in a hood or convection fan)Electronic components can emit a burning smell as they fail.
• Less commonRodent damage to wiringIn some homes, chewed wire insulation causes a similar smell.

What to do

1. Turn off the range and unplug it or switch off its breaker right away if you smell burning plastic or electronics.
2. Do not continue using the appliance until the source is found.
3. Look for a melted utensil, container, or food item that may have touched a hot electrical part, like a control panel or oven light.
4. If you spot a clear, isolated cause like melted plastic, remove it, clean the area, and let everything cool before testing again briefly.
5. If you see any scorch marks, smoke, or can't find an obvious cause, keep the range unplugged and do not use it.
6. Have a technician inspect the wiring and components before using the range again.

When to call a pro

Call an appliance technician or electrician to inspect for damaged wiring or a failing component before using the range again.

Safety