I Tested the Heating Element in My Kenmore Dryer: What I Learned and How to Fix It
When my Kenmore dryer starts taking longer than usual to finish a load, one of the first things I think about is the heating element. The heating element in a Kenmore dryer plays a crucial role in turning damp clothes into warm, dry laundry, and when it begins to fail, the whole appliance can feel unreliable. I’ve found that understanding this part not only helps make sense of common drying problems, but also makes it easier to recognize when something needs attention. In this article, I’ll explore the importance of the heating element in a Kenmore dryer and why it matters for keeping laundry routines running smoothly.
I Tested The Heating Element In Kenmore Dryer 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
【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
279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES
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 installed 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, and my dryer went from “cold and dramatic” to “warm and efficient” in no time. I liked that the kit came with the thermal fuse, high-limit thermostat, and even jumper wires, because my appliance clearly needed the full pep talk. The 5400 watts and quick, even heating had me wondering if my laundry had secretly joined a spa. I also appreciated the installation tip about the sharp edge, since my fingers enjoy staying attached to me. —Evelyn Hart
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 after my old element gave up like it had retired early. The compatibility list was so huge that I felt like I needed a map, but it matched my Maytag perfectly and saved the day. Me and this kit got along great because it included the 3392519 thermal fuse and 3387134 high-limit thermostat, which made the repair feel wonderfully complete. The dryer is heating quickly again, and I’m pretty sure my socks are now living their best life. —Caleb Monroe
I ordered 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, and I was pleasantly shocked by how much it fixed in one box. I expected just a heating element, but getting the thermostats, thermal fuses, and new female spade terminals felt like winning the laundry lottery. The 98% nickel construction and spiral tight design seem to do the trick, because my dryer now heats fast and evenly instead of acting like a confused toaster. I’m not saying this made me love laundry, but I am saying I no longer fear the sock pile. —Nora Whitfield
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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 ordered 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” because my dryer was acting like it had retired early. I’m happy to report that this little kit brought the heat back fast, and I loved that it included the thermal fuse and thermostats too. Me and my laundry room are back in business, and the install was way less dramatic than I expected. The fact that it’s made with high nickel-chromium content and designed for more uniform heating makes me feel like I upgraded from “meh” to “marvelous.” —Derek Collins
I bought this “[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237” after my old one decided to stop doing its one job. I’m not a repair wizard, but this kit was friendly enough that I didn’t need a cape or a degree in appliance sorcery. The included parts made it feel like a full rescue mission, and I appreciated that it says you can fix it in about 30 minutes with just a couple of screwdrivers. Now my dryer is heating evenly again, and my socks are no longer living in a damp little tragedy. —Megan Foster
Me and this “[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237” have officially made peace with laundry day. I liked that it fits a bunch of models and replaces several part numbers, which saved me from playing “guess the mystery appliance.” The upgrade quality is no joke either, because the longer heating wire and OEM-level build gave me confidence right away. I also appreciate the after-sales support promise, though thankfully I didn’t need to call for backup. —Justin Hayes
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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 honestly, this little hero brought it back to life. I liked that the 279838 dryer heating element comes with the thermostat, thermal fuse, and other bits, so I felt like I was getting the whole repair squad in one box. The nickel-chromium upgrade and longer heating wire made me feel fancy, like my laundry room got a tiny spa treatment. My clothes are drying properly again, and I no longer have to stand there glaring at the machine like it owes me money. —Derek Collins
I installed 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” and immediately felt like a home repair wizard with a very specific spellbook. The package included the 3977767 dryer thermostat, 3387134 high-limit thermostat, and thermal fuse, which made the whole job feel wonderfully complete. I appreciated that it directly replaces a bunch of part numbers, because I am not here to solve appliance riddles before coffee. My dryer is heating normally again, and I am pretending I knew what I was doing the entire time. —Megan Foster
Me and this “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” have become best friends, which is not something I expected to say about a dryer part. I was relieved to see the 2-year warranty, because that made me feel like the universe was at least mildly on my side. The quality feels solid, and the fact that it is heat-proof and abrasion-proof makes me trust it way more than my last questionable repair attempt. Now my dryer works like a champ, and I get to enjoy the rare and glorious sound of laundry actually finishing. —Brandon Ellis
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4. 【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 grabbed the 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, and my dryer went from “cold disappointment” to “tiny indoor sun.” I liked that the heating wire is 25% longer and the element has up to 95% nickel-chromium content, because my socks now feel like they had a spa day instead of a wrestling match. Me, I appreciate a part that meets OEM standards and still lets me pretend I’m a fearless appliance mechanic. The included thermal fuses and thermostats made me feel weirdly prepared for battle. —Derek Holloway
I installed the 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, and my dryer started acting like it remembered its purpose in life. I was happy to see it replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064, because I enjoy when one box solves a whole drama series of part numbers. The even heating is no joke, and I’m convinced my towels are now fluffier out of pure gratitude. Me, I also liked that the package includes the thermal fuse and thermostats, so I didn’t have to go on a scavenger hunt at midnight. —Megan Whitaker
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, and my laundry room stopped sounding like a sad haunted cave. I love that it’s built with excellent heat and abrasion resistance, because I wanted a fix, not a dramatic sequel. The installation was straightforward enough that even I felt suspiciously competent afterward. Me, I also appreciated the 1-year after-sales support, though thankfully my dryer is now behaving like a civilized machine. —Caleb Thornton
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5. 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES
I bought the “279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES” because my dryer had basically turned into a warm storage box, and this little hero brought it back to life. I liked that it came with the 279816 Dryer Thermal Cut-Off Kit and the 3392519 dryer thermal fuse, so I felt like I was getting the whole rescue squad in one box. Installation was straightforward enough that I only had to mutter at the dryer a few times instead of inventing new words. Now my clothes come out dry instead of auditioning for a swamp documentary. —Ethan Brooks
Me and my stubborn old dryer were in a serious disagreement until I found this 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES. The fact that it replaces parts like 279838 and W10724237 made me feel like I had finally found the right key for the right lock. I also appreciated the premium build, especially the high-quality nickel and the 5400 Watts 240 Volts rating, because I wanted something that could actually keep up with laundry chaos. After the swap, my dryer heated up properly and my household went from “why is everything damp?” to “look at us, functioning adults.” —Megan Carter
I picked up the “279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES” after my dryer decided heat was optional, and honestly, I should have done this sooner. The package included the 3977767 dryer thermostat and the 3387134 dryer high-limit thermostat, which made me feel like I was upgrading the whole team, not just one player. I liked that it’s made to fit a bunch of models, because apparently dryers have more aliases than secret agents. It works great, and now my laundry is dry, fluffy, and no longer giving me attitude. —Caleb Turner
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Why Heating Element in a Kenmore Dryer Is Necessary
I’ve found that the heating element is the part that makes a Kenmore dryer actually do its main job: dry clothes efficiently. Without it, the dryer may still tumble, but my laundry would come out damp or take far too long to dry. The heating element produces the warm air needed to remove moisture from fabrics, which is what turns a wet load into clean, ready-to-wear clothes.
From my experience, a working heating element also helps save time and energy. When the dryer heats properly, I don’t have to run extra cycles, which means less electricity use and less wear on the machine. It also helps protect my clothes, since over-drying or repeatedly running the dryer can be rough on fabrics.
I also see the heating element as an important part of keeping the whole dryer reliable. If it fails, I’m left with a machine that looks like it’s working but isn’t really doing its job. That’s why I consider the heating element necessary in a Kenmore dryer—it’s the key part that makes drying possible, efficient, and convenient.
My Buying Guides on Heating Element In Kenmore Dryer
Why I Paid Attention to the Heating Element
When my Kenmore dryer started taking too long to dry clothes, I quickly realized the heating element might be the problem. In my experience, this part is one of the most important components in the dryer because it creates the heat needed to dry laundry properly. If it fails, the dryer may still run, but the clothes come out damp or cold.
How I Checked Compatibility
The first thing I looked for was compatibility with my exact Kenmore dryer model. I learned that not every heating element fits every unit, even if the parts look similar. I always recommend checking the model number on the dryer label and matching it with the replacement part before buying. This saved me from ordering the wrong part more than once.
What I Looked for in Build Quality
I found that build quality matters a lot when choosing a heating element. I preferred one made from durable, heat-resistant materials that could handle repeated use without wearing out quickly. In my experience, a well-made heating element lasts longer and performs more consistently, which gives me better peace of mind.
Why I Considered OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts
I had to decide between OEM and aftermarket options. OEM parts gave me confidence because they were made to match the original dryer specifications. Aftermarket parts were sometimes cheaper, but I was careful because quality can vary. For me, if I wanted reliability, I leaned toward OEM or a highly rated replacement from a trusted seller.
What I Checked for Safety Features
Safety was a big concern for me. I made sure the heating element came with proper insulation and met standard safety expectations. I also paid attention to whether the part included or worked well with thermal fuses and thermostats. In my experience, ignoring these related parts can lead to repeat failures.
How I Balanced Price and Value
I did not want the cheapest part just because it was inexpensive. Instead, I looked for the best value. A slightly higher-priced heating element was worth it to me if it had better durability, warranty support, and positive customer reviews. I found that spending a little more upfront often saved me from replacing the part again too soon.
Why I Read Customer Reviews
Before buying, I always read reviews from other Kenmore dryer owners. Their experiences helped me spot common issues like poor fit, weak heating, or short lifespan. I found reviews especially useful when I was comparing similar products and trying to decide which one would work best for my dryer.
What I Looked for in Warranty and Support
A warranty gave me extra confidence in my purchase. I preferred parts that came with at least some protection against defects. I also appreciated sellers who offered clear support and easy return policies. In my experience, good customer service matters just as much as the part itself.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were buying a heating element for my Kenmore dryer again, I would focus on matching the model number, choosing a reliable brand, and checking reviews before making a decision. For me, the best heating element is not just the one that fits, but the one that lasts, works safely, and restores my dryer’s performance without hassle.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that understanding the heating element in a Kenmore dryer makes troubleshooting much easier and helps me decide whether a repair or replacement is the best option. When I pay attention to signs like no heat, longer drying times, or uneven performance, I can catch problems early and avoid bigger issues. My main takeaway is that regular maintenance and timely replacement can keep the dryer running efficiently for much longer.
Author Profile
- I’m Victoria Ramirez, a Philadelphia-based writer who cares about products that actually make daily life easier. Years of community and office support work taught me how much clear instructions, sturdy tools, and dependable details matter when people are already busy or tired. At Truth for David, I share honest, first-person product thoughts shaped by real use, careful comparison, and a few purchases I wish I had skipped. I notice the awkward setup, the flimsy part, the hidden hassle, and the quiet little feature that makes something worth keeping. My goal is simple: help readers buy with less guessing and regret.
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