Burning or Electrical Smell From a Liebherr Refrigerator: What to Do

Refrigerators normally smell like nothing at all, so a hot or acrid odor stands out. Whether it comes from the back, the base or the controls, treat it as a safety matter first and a repair question second.

Immediate steps

1. Unplug the refrigerator if you can reach the plug safely. If it is a built-in unit and the plug is not reachable, switch off its breaker.
2. If you see smoke, sparks or flame, leave the area and call 911. Do not use water on an electrical fire.
3. Move food to a cooler or another refrigerator so you are not rushed.
4. Do not turn the unit back on to see if the smell returns.

Common sources

Not every odor means a serious problem, but it should always be investigated. We often find:

• Dust and pet hair packed around the compressor area or ventilation grille, which can heat and scorch.
• A cooling fan that is struggling and overheating its motor.
• A worn power cord, outlet or extension cord that has overheated.
• A control board or relay that has failed.
• A spill or plastic piece that touched a warm part during a previous repair or remodel.

What to avoid

Do not run the refrigerator through the night while you decide. Do not use a household extension cord to power it. And do not spray cleaners into vents to cover the smell.

Our visit

We inspect the power connection, the fans, the compressor area and the control electronics, then explain what we found before any repair. Parts of this work are not safe for do-it-yourself attempts. You receive a written price first, and our work carries a 30-day workmanship warranty.

Start on our refrigerator repair page and see the service area for your area.