[MelissaG]

My 7 year old Maytag Dishwasher smells like melting plastic when put on the dry cycle. At first I thought it was just because it is new , but after 7 years it still smells like that. What could it be ???? There is nothing blocking the vents and it does dry the dishes. I am afraid it could be a fire hazard. What should I do to fix this problem before it becomes an even bigger issue ??? Please HELP!! I would appreciate anyone's response. Thank You.

[woodchuck]

During the dry cycle a heating element similar to the element in an oven comes on and could very well be getting some plastic hot. Look inside at the element and look for any areas that have turned brown or black from the heat. The dish rack could also be bent too close to the element. They recommend putting plastic on the top rack.