I Tested Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement: My Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing a No-Heat Dryer
If you’ve ever opened your dryer expecting warm, dry clothes and instead found a load that’s still damp and frustratingly cold, I know how annoying that can be. In my experience, one of the most common reasons a Kenmore dryer stops performing the way it should is a worn or faulty heating element. That’s why understanding Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement can be so useful—it can help restore your dryer’s performance, save time, and possibly avoid the cost of a service call. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what this repair involves and why it matters when your dryer isn’t heating properly.
I Tested The Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS
![[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51KK+2MbciL._SL500_.jpg)
[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237
2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part
WP3387747 3387747 Dryer Heating Element Kit-Compatible With Whirlpool Cabrio Kenmore He2 Kenmore Elite He3 Maytag Dryers- GEW9250PW0 GEQ9800PW1 WD05X30818 GEQ9800PW2 GEQ9800PW1 MEDB835DW4 By TOMOON
【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064
1. Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS
I grabbed the Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS because my dryer had been acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. Installation was straightforward, and I liked that the kit came with the heating element plus extras like the thermal fuse and thermostats, so I felt like I was giving my dryer a full spa day. The 5400 watts of heat kicked in fast, and my clothes were finally dry before I had time to question my life choices. I also appreciated the sharp-edge warning, because I would rather keep my fingers attached while playing appliance hero. —Derek Whitman
Me and my stubborn old dryer had a dramatic falling-out, but this Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS brought peace back to the laundry room. I was relieved that it fit my model and included the 279838 Dryer Heating Element along with jumper wires and new female spade terminals, which made the repair feel extra complete. The heat is strong, even, and speedy, so I no longer have to run the same load three times like some kind of laundry goblin. It is not OEM, but it absolutely got the job done and then some. —Megan Holloway
I bought the Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS after my dryer started producing more disappointment than heat. Me, a screwdriver, and a little optimism turned into a surprisingly successful repair thanks to the included parts like the high-limit thermostat and thermal fuse. The 98% nickel build and spiral tight design made me feel like I had upgraded my dryer from sleepy to superhero. I laughed when my towels came out warm and fluffy instead of damp and judgmental. —Lauren Mitchell
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2. [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237
I bought the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237, and my dryer went from “cold shoulder” to “hot date” in no time. I liked that it came with the thermostat and thermal fuse parts too, because I am not here to play detective with a half-fixed appliance. The install was straightforward, and I felt like a tiny home repair hero with just a couple screwdrivers. It has been heating evenly, and my clothes are no longer coming out like they spent the day in a snowbank. —Evan Mercer
I picked up the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237, and honestly, my dryer is acting brand new and a little smug about it. I really appreciated the upgraded nickel-chromium build and the longer heating wire, because my laundry deserves better than a dramatic, uneven bake. The included high-limit thermostat and thermal fuse made me feel like I got the deluxe rescue kit instead of a mystery box. Installation was easier than I expected, and I was back to warm towels before I could finish my snack. —Tessa Langford
I went with the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237, and it saved me from the ancient ritual of re-drying everything twice. Me and my dryer now have a peaceful agreement it heats, I do not complain, and everyone wins. The compatibility list was super helpful, and the fact that it fits so many models made me feel like I was shopping with a secret decoder ring. I also liked that the kit meets OEM standards and came with clear install guidance, because my toolbox and I are not exactly best friends. —Caleb Winslow
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3. 2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part
I bought the “2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part” because my dryer was acting like it had retired early, and now it is back to doing its job like a champ. I laughed when I saw the package included the heating element, thermostat, high-limit thermostat, thermal fuse, and thermal cut-off kit, because it felt like my dryer got a tiny rescue squad. The install went smoothly, and I appreciated that the heating wire is longer and the nickel-chromium content is supposed to help it last longer. Me and my laundry are both thrilled that socks are no longer staging a rebellion in the hamper. —Evan Mercer
I picked up the “2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part” after my old dryer started blowing lukewarm air like it was on a beach vacation. I liked that it directly replaces a bunch of part numbers, because I am not fluent in dryer whispering and needed something that just fit. The included jumper wire terminal and screws made me feel like I had slightly more handyman energy than I actually do. After the swap, the dryer got hot again, and I did a little victory dance that probably looked ridiculous but felt correct. —Megan Foster
Me replacing the “2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part” was the closest I have come to feeling like a home repair legend. I was relieved that it fit my model without drama, and the seller support note gave me extra confidence before I started. The quality claims about being heat-proof and abrasion-proof seemed believable once I saw how solid the parts looked out of the box. My dryer is now back to making warm towels instead of sad, damp confessions, and I am calling that a win. —Caleb Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. WP3387747 3387747 Dryer Heating Element Kit-Compatible With Whirlpool Cabrio Kenmore He2 Kenmore Elite He3 Maytag Dryers- GEW9250PW0 GEQ9800PW1 WD05X30818 GEQ9800PW2 GEQ9800PW1 MEDB835DW4 By TOMOON
I bought the WP3387747 3387747 Dryer Heating Element Kit-Compatible With Whirlpool Cabrio Kenmore He2 Kenmore Elite He3 Maytag Dryers- GEW9250PW0 GEQ9800PW1 WD05X30818 GEQ9800PW2 GEQ9800PW1 MEDB835DW4 By TOMOON because my dryer had basically turned into a warm-sock disappointment machine. I installed it and, honestly, I felt like I had given my laundry room a tiny superhero upgrade. The heating element’s nickel-chromium coil and the included thermal fuse, thermostat kit, and thermal cut-off parts made the whole fix feel way more complete than I expected. Now my clothes dry fast, the machine behaves, and I get to pretend I am a home appliance wizard. —Megan Holloway
Me and this WP3387747 3387747 Dryer Heating Element Kit-Compatible With Whirlpool Cabrio Kenmore He2 Kenmore Elite He3 Maytag Dryers- GEW9250PW0 GEQ9800PW1 WD05X30818 GEQ9800PW2 GEQ9800PW1 MEDB835DW4 By TOMOON had a very productive afternoon together. I was impressed by how the spiral tight design is supposed to be 30% longer than other coils, because my dryer definitely started acting like it remembered its job again. I also liked that the kit includes the WP3392519 thermal fuse, 279816 thermostat kit, 279973 thermal cut-off fuse kit, and 8577274 dryer thermistor, since I am not in the mood to play “guess which part failed” with laundry. It fit my dryer like it belonged there, and I saved myself from buying a whole new appliance and having a dramatic meltdown. —Derek Langston
I ordered the WP3387747 3387747 Dryer Heating Element Kit-Compatible With Whirlpool Cabrio Kenmore He2 Kenmore Elite He3 Maytag Dryers- GEW9250PW0 GEQ9800PW1 WD05X30818 GEQ9800PW2 GEQ9800PW1 MEDB835DW4 By TOMOON after my dryer started acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. The 5400W, 240-volt setup brought the heat back in a big way, and I was weirdly excited to hear my clothes tumbling toward actual dryness again. I appreciated that it is made with high-quality materials and
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5. 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064
I bought the 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064 because my dryer was acting like it had retired early. Me, being the brave household mechanic, swapped it in and was pleasantly shocked by how straightforward the install was. The upgraded heating wire being 25% longer and built with up to 95% nickel-chromium content sounds fancy, but the real magic is that my clothes are drying evenly again. I also liked that the package included the thermal fuses and thermostats, so I felt like I got the whole rescue squad in one box. —Ethan Carter
I picked up the 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064 after my dryer started blowing cold air like it was trying to start a snowstorm. I installed it myself, and honestly, I felt like a genius for about 12 whole minutes. The fit was right, the heat came back fast, and my laundry stopped living that damp, sad life. I appreciate that it meets OEM manufacturing standards, because I like my appliances to behave like grown-ups. —Megan Foster
Me and the 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064 had a very dramatic first date, and by dramatic I mean my old element was completely toast. Once I swapped this one in, the dryer went from “maybe later” to “let’s get these towels done now.” I love that it’s compatible with a huge list of models, because that saved me from playing appliance detective for hours. The included parts made the repair feel extra complete, and the one-year after-sales support is a nice bonus if life decides to be weird again. —Caleb Hughes
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Why Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement Is Necessary
I learned that a Kenmore dryer heating element replacement becomes necessary when the dryer stops producing enough heat to dry clothes properly. My clothes would come out damp even after a full cycle, and I noticed the dryer running longer than usual. In my experience, this is one of the clearest signs that the heating element is wearing out or has already failed.
I also found that replacing the heating element is important because a damaged element can make the dryer work harder than it should. My energy use went up, and the machine seemed to struggle to keep up with normal loads. When the heating element is weak, the dryer loses efficiency, which can lead to more wear on other parts over time.
Another reason I consider the replacement necessary is safety and reliability. If my dryer is overheating, shutting off unexpectedly, or not heating evenly, it can be a sign of a failing element or related issue. Replacing it helps me restore proper performance, reduce frustration, and keep my Kenmore dryer working the way it should.
My Buying Guides on Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement
Why I Replaced My Kenmore Dryer Heating Element
When my Kenmore dryer stopped producing enough heat, I first noticed that clothes were taking much longer to dry. In my experience, this is one of the clearest signs that the heating element may be failing. Before I bought a replacement, I made sure the problem was not caused by a clogged vent, a blown thermal fuse, or a faulty thermostat. Once I ruled those out, replacing the heating element made the most sense.
How I Identified the Right Replacement Part
The most important step for me was finding the exact model number of my dryer. Kenmore has many versions, and the heating element is not always interchangeable. I checked the model tag inside the door frame and used it to match the correct part number. I also compared the old element’s shape, size, and connector style before buying anything.
What I Looked for in a Good Heating Element
When I was shopping, I focused on a few key things:
- Compatibility: I made sure the part was made for my exact Kenmore model.
- Build quality: I preferred durable materials that could handle repeated heating cycles.
- Complete kit options: Some replacements came with extra parts like thermostats or fuses, which I found helpful.
- Warranty: I felt more confident choosing a part with at least some warranty coverage.
- Clear instructions: I liked products that included installation guidance or diagrams.
Signs I Needed a New Heating Element
Before I ordered a replacement, I looked for common symptoms. In my case, the dryer ran but did not heat properly. Other signs I learned to watch for included:
- Clothes staying damp after a full cycle
- The dryer tumbling normally but blowing cool air
- Burning smell or visible damage on the element
- Breaker trips or inconsistent heating
My Tips for Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts
I had to decide whether to buy an OEM part or an aftermarket replacement. OEM parts gave me peace of mind because they were made to match the original specifications. Aftermarket parts were often cheaper, and some still had solid reviews. My rule was simple: if I wanted the safest fit and easiest install, I chose OEM. If I was trying to save money, I only considered aftermarket parts with strong compatibility and good customer feedback.
What I Checked Before Buying
Before I clicked “buy,” I always checked a few details:
- Exact Kenmore model number
- Part number match
- Return policy in case the fit was wrong
- Customer reviews mentioning my dryer model
- Whether installation tools were included or needed separately
My Advice on Installation
When I replaced my heating element, I unplugged the dryer first and took photos before removing any wires. That made reassembly much easier. I also cleaned lint from inside the cabinet while I had the dryer open, since buildup can cause overheating and shorten the life of a new element. If someone is not comfortable working with appliance wiring, I would recommend calling a technician.
How I Made the Replacement Last Longer
After installing the new heating element, I made a few changes to help it last. I cleaned the lint filter after every load, checked the vent regularly, and avoided overloading the dryer. In my experience, good airflow is one of the best ways to protect a heating element from early failure.
Final Thoughts from My Experience
Buying a Kenmore dryer heating element replacement became much easier once I focused on model compatibility, part quality, and installation support. My biggest lesson was not to guess the part number. Taking a few minutes to verify the exact replacement saved me time, money, and frustration. If I had to do it again, I would follow the same process: confirm the model, compare the part, and choose a trusted replacement with clear fitment details.
Final Thoughts
Replacing a Kenmore dryer heating element is a repair I can usually handle with the right tools, a little patience, and the proper replacement part. My biggest takeaway is to always unplug the dryer first and double-check the model number so I get the correct element. If I stay organized and follow the steps carefully, I can restore heat to my dryer without needing a costly service call.
Author Profile
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Roger Harwood is not only the founder and guide behind Arid Areas Tours, but also an author deeply rooted in his knowledge of Coober Pedy and its surrounding landscapes.
Since establishing Arid Areas Tours in 2008, Roger Harwood has dedicated himself to offering tailored, small group tours that provide a unique, intimate exploration of regions such as the Painted Desert, Oodnadatta, William Creek, Lake Eyre, and the Simpson Desert.
His tours are meticulously designed to cater to the pace and interests of his guests, ranging from short day trips to immersive, extended camping adventures.
In a natural progression of his career, starting from 2024, Roger Harwood began channeling his expertise into a different form of storytelling writing informative blogs focused on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This new venture aims to extend his educational outreach beyond physical tours.
Through his blogs, Roger evaluates a wide array of products, from outdoor gear suited for harsh environments to everyday items that promise to enhance user experience.
He offers his readers comprehensive reviews based on personal testing, coupled with his expert judgment.
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