March 06, 2015

How to replace a heating element in an electric dryer

This step-by-step dryer heating element repair guide describes heating element replacement in an electric dryer. Because the heating element generates the dryer's heat, check it if the air in the dryer doesn't get warm. If the air isn't heating, you'll likely need to repair the dryer heating element. You can inspect the heating element for damage or breaks in the heating coil. If the heating element is damaged, replace it with the manufacturer-approved dryer heating element dryer part.

Use these steps in this dryer heating element repair guide to replace the electric heating element in Kenmore, Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Roper, Crosley and Estate dryers with a lint screen housing located in the top cabinet panel.

Quick links

Video

Instructions

Tools required

1/4-inch nut driver

Slot screwdriver

Vacuum cleaner or shop vac

Work gloves

Repair difficulty

Time required

15 minutes or less

Replacing a heating element in an electric dryer

This video explains how to replace the heating element in an electric dryer.

Instructions

01.
Shut off the power
Unplug the dryer to disconnect electrical power.
02.
Remove the back panel
Move the dryer forward and use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screws from the back panel. Remove the back panel from the dryer and set it aside.
Tip: While the cabinet is open, vacuum the dust and lint from inside the dryer cabinet.
PHOTO: Remove the back panel screws.
PHOTO: Remove the back panel from the dryer.
03.
Disconnect the wires
Locate the heating element near the bottom of the dryer.
Mark the location of wires connected to the heating element and high-limit thermostat or take a digital photograph, so you know how to correctly reconnect them later.
Disconnect the wires, using slot screwdriver to pry the wires off the spades if necessary.
PHOTO: Pull the wires off the heating element.
04.
Remove the heating element
Remove the mounting screws from the heating element using a 1/4-inch nut driver and pull it off of the heater box.
PHOTO: Remove the heating element mounting screws.
PHOTO: Remove the heating element.
05.
Transfer the high-limit thermostat to the new heating element
Remove the high-limit thermostat from the existing heating element and install it on the new heating element.
PHOTO: Transfer the high-limit thermostat to the new heating element.
06.
Install the new heating element
Position the new heating element on the heater box and line up the mounting screw holes. Insert the mounting screws and tighten them firmly.
Properly connect the wires to the new heating element, following the labels or digital photograph.
Warning: For safety and to avoid damage to the new element, the wires must be properly connected. If you are unsure how to connect the wires, have a service technician complete this repair.
07.
Reattach the back panel
Position the back panel on the back of the dryer. Line up the mounting screw holes. Insert the mounting screws and tighten them firmly.
08.
Plug in the dryer
Plug the dryer into the wall outlet to restore electrical power.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.