Rheem
Overheating Electrical or Plastic Components
Boiler emits a burning smell or plastic odor during operation
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Safety Warning
This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.
If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.
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Possible Causes
Dust burning off heat exchanger (new installation), Overheating wiring or connectors, Fan motor overheating, Foreign objects near flue or burner
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: If you smell burning plastic or see smoke, turn off power and gas immediately and ventilate the area.
- Step 1 – New boiler consideration: A mild odor during the first few hours of operation can be normal as oils and dust burn off. This should dissipate quickly.
- Step 2 – Inspect internal components: With power off and cooled, remove the front cover and look for discolored, melted, or charred wiring, connectors, or plastic parts. Replace any damaged components.
- Step 3 – Check fan and motor: Ensure the combustion fan spins freely and is not overheating. Replace if there are signs of burning or bearing failure.
- Step 4 – Clear foreign objects: Remove any packaging materials, cable ties, or debris that may have been left inside the cabinet or near the burner.
Warning: Do not continue operating the boiler if burning smells persist. Fire risk is possible.
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Repair Difficulty
Hard
4/5
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