If plastic melts inside your GE dishwasher, you might smell something similar to candle wax melting. Don't let your dishwasher keep running if you smell melted plastic, as it could start a fire. Check the cause of the smell and clean up any melted plastic that has fallen onto the heating element to help diffuse the smell.
Turn Off Dishwasher
If you smell melting plastic coming from your GE dishwasher, turn off the dishwasher immediately. In some cases, this type of smell can indicate a problem in the electrical system that may lead to an electrical fire. In any case, something in the dishwasher is melting if you notice this odor, and you should discontinue use of the dishwasher until you figure out what it is.
Melted Plasticware
If a plastic spoon or other meltable item falls onto the heating element of the dishwasher, it may begin to melt, causing an odor similar to candle wax melting. You can't remove melted plastic while your dishwasher is hot. After you turn off the dishwasher, open your windows to help diffuse the smell. Once the dishwasher cools, scrape the melted plastic off the element with a scraper. Remove the dish racks and other dishes before attempting to deal with the plastic so plastic residue doesn't get all over your dishes.
Run Drying Cycle
You'll have to run the dishwasher's drying cycle without the racks to get rid of plastic residue. After a few minutes of drying, open the dishwasher and wipe residue with a rag. After the dishwasher is clean, put the racks and dishes back and put baking soda on the dishes before running the second rinse cycle.
Warning
Some GE dishwashers get recalled from time to time because they are prone to electrical fires. Check GE's website periodically to ensure that your dishwasher hasn't been recalled. If your dishwasher is on the recall list, don't use it anymore. Call GE's toll-free number and let them know you have a recalled model dishwasher and ask for a replacement. Electrical fires often smell like melted plastic as well, so check for signs of fire if you smell it.
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