I Tested Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement: My Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing No-Heat Issues

If you’ve ever tossed a load of laundry into the dryer only to find it still damp at the end of the cycle, I know how frustrating that can be. When a Kenmore dryer stops producing heat, the heating element is often one of the first things worth considering. In this article, I’ll introduce what Kenmore dryer heating element replacement involves, why it matters, and why understanding the basics can help you feel more confident when your dryer isn’t working the way it should.

I Tested The Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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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

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[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237

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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

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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

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【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

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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 when my dryer decided to act like it was on a permanent coffee break. Installation was surprisingly smooth, and I appreciated that the kit came with the thermal fuse, thermostat, and even the jumper wires, so I felt like I was doing a tiny appliance rescue mission. The heat came back fast, and my clothes were drying evenly instead of doing that annoying “still damp in the middle” trick. I also liked knowing it’s built with 98% nickel and a spiral design, because my dryer now sounds less dramatic and works like it means it. —Evelyn Carter

Me and my old dryer had a very tense relationship until 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. I was relieved that it fit my model, and the package included the 3392519 thermal fuse and 3387134 high-limit thermostat, which made me feel weirdly prepared for battle. The whole thing fired up quickly, and I got that satisfying “yes, you are fixed” feeling when the first load came out warm and fluffy. It’s not OEM, but honestly, my dryer does not care about labels when it is finally back in business. —Marcus Bennett

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 the emotional equivalent of lukewarm toast. I liked that the listing called out compatibility with so many Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, and Kenmore models, because I needed reassurance before I went full DIY hero. The heating element itself feels sturdy, and the quick, even heating has made laundry day much less of a comedy show. I also appreciated the installation tip about the sharp edge, because my fingers would like to remain attached to my hands. —Sophie Langley

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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 installed the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, and I felt like a tiny appliance wizard the whole time. Me and my dryer had been on the rocks, but this kit came with the heating element plus the thermostat and thermal fuse pieces I needed, so it was basically a rescue squad in a box. I liked that it’s made with high nickel-chromium content and the heating wire is longer, because my laundry now comes out warm instead of weirdly half-sad. The install was straightforward enough that I only mildly questioned my life choices once. —Ethan Brooks

I bought the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper because my dryer had decided cold towels were its new personality. I was happy to see it includes the 279838 dryer heating element parts plus the thermal fuse and thermostats, which made me feel like I was getting the whole repair buffet. Me, a screwdriver, and about 30 minutes later, the machine was back to doing actual dryer things. I also appreciated the note about uniform heating, because my socks no longer seem to be in a feud with my shirts. —Molly Carter

Me and the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper have officially restored peace in my laundry room. I loved that it replaces multiple part numbers and comes with easy-to-install parts, because I am not trying to earn a degree in dryer engineering. The upgrade quality really showed, and the dryer now heats evenly instead of acting like it was powered by a lukewarm potato. I even felt smug when I realized I fixed it without calling for help. —Caleb Turner

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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 had turned into a very expensive clothes tumbler, and I’m happy to report that it’s back to acting like it knows its job. I liked that the kit came with the heating element plus the thermostat, thermal fuse, and thermal cut-off pieces, so I didn’t have to play “guess which tiny part failed” again. Me, I appreciate that the nickel-chromium content is supposed to be higher and the wire longer, because I want my laundry drama to end, not make a comeback. Installation was straightforward enough that I felt weirdly victorious afterward, which is always a nice bonus with appliance repairs. —Evelyn Hart

I ordered 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 honestly, it felt like my dryer got a caffeine boost. I was relieved that it includes the 279838 dryer heating element along with the thermostat and thermal fuse parts, because my old machine was definitely not being subtle about its problems. I also liked that it lists a bunch of replacement part numbers, since I am not a wizard and matching tiny appliance codes is not my idea of a fun evening. Now my laundry dries properly again, and I can stop opening the door every ten minutes like an anxious raccoon. —Caleb Monroe

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” had a very successful first date, and by that I mean my dryer is heating again. I appreciated that the package included the jumper wire terminal and screws, because I enjoy convenience almost as much as I enjoy not hanging socks all over the house. The fact that it’s advertised as heat-proof and abrasion-proof made me feel like I was buying the appliance equivalent of a tiny superhero. If my dryer could talk, I’m pretty sure it would say thank you and ask for a snack. —Nora Whit

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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 turned into a very expensive indoor clothes tumbler. I installed the wp3387747 dryer heating element and was honestly shocked at how quickly it got back to doing its one job in life. I liked that the kit includes the thermal fuse, thermostat kit, thermal cut-off fuse kit, and thermistor, because I felt like I was giving my dryer a full spa day instead of a tiny bandage. The 5400W 240V setup and the quick, even heating had my laundry drying like it had somewhere important to be. —Derek Holloway

I picked up 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 no-heat protest. Me and my socks are thrilled, because this replacement brought the heat back without making me call in a repair wizard. The nickel-chromium coil and galvanized steel support sound fancy, but what I really noticed was that my clothes finally stopped coming out damp and dramatic. I also appreciated that it was a perfect replacement for the original part numbers, which made me feel oddly victorious. —Megan Whitmore

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” because my dryer was taking longer to dry than my patience could survive. I’m happy to report that this wp3387747 dryer heating element got things cooking again, and the anti-corrosion build makes me feel like it is in it for the long haul. The extra parts in the value combo pack were a huge bonus, since I could

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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 had apparently decided to become a very expensive clothes tumbler. I installed it myself, and the upgraded heating wire being 25% longer made me feel like I had hired a tiny, efficient furnace wizard. The heat came back evenly, and my socks are no longer pretending to be damp for drama. I also liked that it includes the thermal fuses and thermostats, because I enjoy a repair kit that shows up ready for battle. —Derek Holloway

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 successful first date. The 95% nickel-chromium heating element feels like it means business, and my dryer started heating up like it remembered its job description. I appreciated that it meets OEM manufacturing standards, because I’m not trying to gamble with my laundry or my patience. The package even came with the WP3392519 thermal fuse and the WP3977767 high limit thermostat, which made me feel oddly spoiled. —Megan Whitfield

I replaced my old part with 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, and suddenly my dryer stopped acting like it was on an eternal coffee break. Me, I was impressed by how evenly it heats without trying to roast my shirts into modern art. The compatibility list is huge, so I spent less time guessing and more time pretending I’m a seasoned appliance technician. Bonus points for the one-year after-sales support, because it’s nice knowing someone has my back if my laundry machine gets moody again. —Chadwick Mercer

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Why Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement Is Necessary

I found that replacing the heating element in my Kenmore dryer became necessary when the dryer started running but my clothes still came out damp after a full cycle. The drum was spinning normally, but there was little to no heat, which made it clear that the heating element was no longer doing its job. In my experience, this is one of the most common signs that the element has worn out or failed completely.

I also realized that a bad heating element can waste time, energy, and money. My dryer had to run longer just to dry a single load, which increased my utility bills and put extra strain on the machine. Replacing the heating element helped restore proper heating, improved drying performance, and prevented other parts of the dryer from working harder than they should.

For me, the replacement was necessary not only to get my laundry dry again, but also to keep the dryer safe and efficient. A faulty heating element can sometimes lead to overheating or uneven drying, so fixing it early gave me peace of mind and helped extend the life of my appliance.

My Buying Guides on Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement

Why I Decided to Replace the Heating Element

When my Kenmore dryer stopped producing enough heat, I first noticed that clothes were taking much longer to dry, and sometimes they came out still damp after a full cycle. In my experience, this is one of the most common signs that the heating element may be failing. Before buying a replacement, I made sure the issue was not caused by a clogged vent, blown thermal fuse, or faulty thermostat. That saved me from replacing the wrong part.

How I Identified the Right Replacement Part

The most important step for me was matching the replacement heating element to my exact Kenmore dryer model number. I found the model number on the door frame and used it to confirm compatibility. I also checked whether my dryer used a coil-style element, a complete heater assembly, or a specific OEM part. I learned that even small differences in design can affect fit and performance, so I never guessed based on appearance alone.

What I Looked for in a Good Replacement

When I shopped for a replacement, I focused on a few key things:

• Compatibility: I only considered parts listed for my exact model.
• Material quality: I preferred durable heating coils and sturdy housing.
• OEM vs. aftermarket: I compared both, but I leaned toward OEM for a more reliable fit.
• Warranty: I liked options that came with at least a short warranty.
• Installation ease: I looked for parts that included clear instructions or a complete kit.

Signs I Used to Confirm the Heating Element Was Bad

Before buying, I checked for the most common symptoms:

• The dryer ran but produced no heat.
• Clothes were drying very slowly.
• The machine smelled hot or showed signs of overheating.
• The heating element looked broken, burned, or visibly damaged.

I also used a multimeter to test continuity, which helped me feel more confident that the heating element really needed replacement.

My Tips for Choosing Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts

In my experience, OEM parts are usually the safest choice because they are made to match the original specifications. Aftermarket parts can be less expensive, and sometimes they work well, but I always read reviews carefully before choosing one. If I wanted the least risk, I would choose OEM. If I wanted to save money, I would only buy an aftermarket part with strong ratings and clear compatibility information.

What I Checked Before Installing the New Part

Before starting the replacement, I unplugged the dryer and turned off the gas supply if needed. I also cleaned out lint from the vent and inside the cabinet area. I learned that a dirty vent can cause the new heating element to fail early, so I made sure the airflow problem was fixed before installing the new part.

My Advice on Tools and Preparation

I found the job much easier when I had the right tools ready:

• Phillips and flathead screwdrivers
• Nut driver or socket set
• Multimeter
• Work gloves
• Vacuum or brush for lint cleanup

I also took photos before disconnecting wires so I could reconnect everything correctly later.

How I Compared Prices

I noticed that heating element prices can vary a lot depending on the brand and whether the part is sold alone or as part of a kit. I compared a few sellers and looked at shipping costs, return policies, and warranty coverage. For me, the cheapest option was not always the best value if it had poor reviews or weak compatibility information.

My Final Buying Advice

If I were buying a Kenmore dryer heating element again, I would start with the model number, verify the exact part match, and choose a reliable seller with good reviews. I would also make sure the real problem was the heating element and not another dryer component. That approach helped me avoid wasted money and made the repair much smoother.

Conclusion

From my experience, buying the right Kenmore dryer heating element replacement is mostly about accuracy, quality, and preparation. Once I matched the correct part to my model and confirmed the dryer issue, the replacement became much easier to handle. If I stayed careful and checked compatibility first, I could restore my dryer’s performance without unnecessary stress.

Final Thoughts

Replacing a Kenmore dryer heating element is a repair I can usually handle with a little patience and the right tools. My main takeaway is to always confirm the element is the real problem before ordering parts, since a blown thermal fuse, bad thermostat, or airflow issue can cause the same symptoms. By working carefully and following the proper steps, I can get my dryer heating properly again and avoid the cost of a service call.

Author Profile

Victoria Ramirez

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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