The Controller on My Frigidaire Freezer Smells Like Smoke

Control Board

• A defective control or board may be causing your Frigidaire freezer’s controller to smell like smoke. Other symptoms of a defective board may include clicking noises and noticeable burns spots on the bottom of the control board behind the relays. In addition, if the compressor is not running, but both fans are operating, the control board is probably the problem.

Fan Motor

• The freezer’s controller may smell like smoke because of a faulty fan motor. If the fan motor has overheated, the fans will stop working, and the motor will have a burning smell. In addition, the freezer’s temperature will begin to rise since the compartment is no longer being cooled.

Wiring

• Loose wire connections can cause the freezer’s controller to smell like smoke. There are many possible wiring culprits. The controller wires may be loose, or the wires to the compressor or fans may be loose. In addition, the wires to the thermostat or other parts of the freezer may be loose, and any of these faulty connections can cause a smoky smell.

Compressor

• A malfunction with the compressor can produce smoky smells from the controller. The compressor has condenser coils, which can accumulate large quantities of dust and dirt. When this happens, the compressor can overheat and cause smoky smells to emanate from the freezer. In addition, if the fans are not working properly, this will lead to a malfunctioning compressor.

Other Considerations

• Although the smell of smoke appears to be coming from the controller, it may actually originate from other parts of the appliance. In addition, before attempting any troubleshooting work on the freezer, always unplug the appliance for safety reasons. Do no attempt any repairs that you are uncomfortable with or unsure of.