De Dietrich
Overheating Component or Electrical Insulation Smell
Water heater emits a burning smell or plastic smell 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 on De Dietrich unit (new installation), Overheating pump motor, Loose electrical connection causing arcing, Melted plastic near flue
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: If you see smoke or suspect an electrical fire, switch off power at the breaker immediately and do not use the heater.
Step-by-step checks:
- New installation: A slight smell may be normal for the first few hours as protective oils burn off. This should dissipate quickly.
- Visual inspection: With power off and unit cooled, remove the cover and look for discolored wiring, melted insulation, or scorch marks.
- Check clearances: Ensure no plastic items or wiring are touching the flue or hot surfaces.
When to call a professional: Any persistent burning smell or visible damage requires immediate professional inspection.
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Repair Difficulty
Hard
4/5
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