How do I fix Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement - Signs & How-To?

Follow the step-by-step diagnosis below. The most likely fix is identified by checking power, sensor resistance, and control-board signals in order — using a multimeter and the part numbers documented in the parts reference table.

Can I keep running the equipment with this fault active?

Generally no. Faults on Appliance units are emitted when a sensor, safety, or control circuit is outside its operating envelope. Running through an active fault risks compressor, heater, or control-board damage. Diagnose and clear the fault first.

What part is most commonly replaced for Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement - Signs & How-To?

The most frequently replaced parts for Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement - Signs & How-To are listed in the Parts Reference section of this guide with OEM part numbers and typical price ranges. Check the table for direct replacements.

Is Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement - Signs & How-To a DIY repair or do I need a technician?

Sensor swaps, fan motor replacements, and condenser cleaning are typical DIY-level repairs. Anything involving refrigerant, gas, or high-voltage (>240V) work requires a licensed technician for both safety and code-compliance reasons.

Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement - Signs & How-To

Q: What does Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement - Signs & How-To mean?

Dryer runs but produces no heat or takes forever to dry. Replacing a failed heating element restores normal heat and dry times.

Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Replacement — What This Part Does

The heating element is a resistive coil inside a metal housing at the rear or bottom of your Kenmore electric dryer. When power flows through it, the coil heats up and warm air blows through the drum to dry clothes. Over time the element wire can break or develop an open circuit, stopping all heat production while the drum continues to tumble.

Failure happens from repeated thermal cycling, physical vibration, or short circuits if lint accumulates inside the heater box. When the coil breaks, the element reads open (infinite resistance) on a multimeter instead of the normal 10 to 12 ohms. Replacing the element restores the heat circuit so your dryer dries normally again.

Jump to Replacement Steps

Signs It Needs Replacing

Dryer runs but no heat at all The drum tumbles and the timer advances, but clothes come out cold and damp after a full cycle.
Takes multiple cycles to dry one load Loads that used to dry in 45 minutes now need two or three cycles, indicating weak or intermittent heat.
Element tests open on a multimeter With power off and one wire disconnected, the heating element terminals read infinite resistance instead of 10 to 12 ohms.
Visible break or gap in the coil After removing the element, you can see a broken wire or separated section in the coil winding.
Burnt or discolored element housing The heater box or element shield shows scorch marks or heavy oxidation from a shorted coil.
No continuity across heater terminals A continuity test from terminal to terminal shows an open circuit, confirming the internal coil has failed.

How to Replace It

Unplug the dryer from the wall outlet or turn off the dedicated 240-volt breaker at your home’s electrical panel.
Pull the dryer away from the wall so you can access the rear or lower access panel, depending on your Kenmore model.
Remove the screws securing the rear panel or lower front kick-plate and lift the panel off to expose the heating element housing.
Disconnect the wire connectors or spade terminals from the heating element leads and note their positions for reassembly.
Remove the 1/4-inch hex-head screws holding the element shield or heater box cover, then slide the old heating element out of the housing.
Slide the new heating element into the heater box with the terminals oriented correctly and seated flush against the mounting surface.
Reinstall the shield screws and reconnect the wire leads to the correct element terminals, making sure each connector locks firmly in place.
Replace the access panel and secure all screws, then push the dryer back into position and restore power.
Run a short timed-dry cycle with damp towels to verify the dryer heats normally and the element glows inside the housing.

The Part You Need

Part	Notes
Kenmore dryer heating element	Amazon \| Look up your exact model and serial number on the metal tag inside the door opening or on the rear panel. Common OEM part numbers include WP3387747, WP4391960, 279843, W10864898, WP3403591, W11375548, and 279506 (120-volt kit). Match the part to your model before ordering.

If this part is failing you may also see one of these codes:

When to Call a Pro

Call a technician if you are uncomfortable working with 240-volt wiring or if the new element still does not produce heat. A no-heat condition can also be caused by a failed thermal fuse, high-limit thermostat, defective timer, or broken wire in the heater circuit. A pro can test each component in sequence and trace the control path to find the real fault instead of replacing parts by trial and error.