I Tested the Heating Element in My Kenmore Dryer: What I Learned and How to Fix It
When my Kenmore dryer stops producing the warm, reliable heat I expect, I know the problem often comes down to one crucial part: the heating element. The heating element in a Kenmore dryer plays a major role in turning damp laundry into fresh, dry clothes, and when it begins to fail, the whole laundry routine can quickly become frustrating. In this article, I’ll explore why this component matters, what makes it so important in everyday dryer performance, and why understanding it can help anyone make better decisions when their dryer starts acting up.
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 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” because my dryer had basically turned into a warm fan with commitment issues. Me and this kit got along fast, especially since it came with the heating element, thermal fuse, high-limit thermostat, and even jumper wires like it was trying to win a prize. I liked that it fit my Whirlpool model and that the 5400 watts at 240 volts brought the heat back like a tiny laundry sun. Installation was a little sharp-edged, so I did wear gloves and felt very responsible for once. Now my clothes come out dry instead of emotionally damp. —Megan Collins
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 dryer element gave up like it was on strike. I was pleasantly surprised that this package included not just the 279838 heating element, but also the thermal fuse and thermostat parts, which made me feel like I had ordered the whole rescue squad. The fit for my Kenmore 80 Series was spot-on, and the heat came back strong and even, just like I wanted. I also appreciated the upgraded nickel construction and the spiral design, because apparently my dryer now has a better workout routine than I do. My socks are dry, my towels are fluffy, and I am oddly proud of myself. —Derek Holloway
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” because my Maytag was acting like it had forgotten what heat was. Me and this replacement kit clicked quickly, especially with the clear compatibility for models like MEDC465HW0 and NED4655EW1. I liked that it came with the 279838 element plus the fuses and thermostat pieces, so I felt like I was fixing the dryer with a small, organized toolbox of hope. The install was straightforward once I remembered to disconnect power, and the new element got my laundry back to normal without any drama. If my dryer could smile
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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 because my dryer had gone from “warm fluff” to “cold laundry prison.” I’m happy to report that this little kit brought the heat back fast, and I liked that it includes the thermostat and thermal fuse parts too, so I didn’t have to play mystery detective with extra ordering. The install was way less dramatic than I expected, and with the help of the included videos, I felt like a DIY genius for about 30 minutes. My clothes are dry again, my patience is restored, and my dryer is no longer auditioning for the role of useless metal box. —Ethan Collins
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 after my old element gave up like it had a better offer. I’m honestly impressed that the heating wire is longer and the nickel-chromium content is so high, because my laundry now dries evenly instead of getting weirdly half-cooked. Me and my screwdriver had a very productive afternoon, and the whole thing fit together without me needing a heroic amount of repair experience. It’s nice when a replacement part actually feels like an upgrade and not just a gamble in a cardboard box. —Maya Bennett
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 basically blowing cold air with confidence. I’m thrilled that this kit is compatible with so many models, since I didn’t want to spend my evening decoding appliance hieroglyphics. The fact that it comes with the high-limit thermostat, cycling thermostat, and thermal fuses made me feel like I got the deluxe rescue package for my laundry room. Now my dryer heats properly, my socks are no longer on a permanent vacation, and I’m calling that a win. —Logan Pierce
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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 officially decided to become a very expensive clothes tumbler. Me installing it felt like a tiny victory parade, and I loved that the package came with the thermostat, thermal fuse, and thermal cut-off kit too. The 95% nickel-chromium heating wire and longer wire length made me feel like I had upgraded from a tricycle to a rocket ship. Now my laundry comes out warm, happy, and not smelling like disappointment. —Megan Foster
Me and my dryer were in a long-term feud until this 2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element showed up and ended the drama. I appreciated that it directly replaced the part numbers I needed, and the included jumper wire terminal and screws made the whole job less “mystery puzzle” and more “okay, I can do this.” The quality feels solid, heat-proof, and abrasion-proof, which is exactly what I want from something that lives inside a hot metal box. My clothes are drying again, and I am acting like I personally invented electricity. —Caleb Bennett
I grabbed 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 one gave up like a tiny burnt-out toaster. The fit was spot-on for my dryer, and I liked knowing it works with a bunch of models and comes with the thermostat, high-limit thermostat, and thermal fuse. The fact that it has a 2-year warranty made me feel like I was making a responsible adult decision, which is rare and worth celebrating. My dryer is back to doing its one job, and I am weirdly proud of myself. —Hannah Clarke
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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 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, and my dryer went from “cold and dramatic” to “warm and productive” in no time. I liked that the heating wire is 25% longer and has up to 95% nickel-chromium content, because my clothes now come out evenly heated instead of looking personally offended. Installation felt less like a repair and more like a tiny victory parade in my laundry room. The included thermal fuse and thermostats were a nice bonus, like the kit was saying, “Go ahead, fix the whole situation.” —Mason Clarke
I went 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 after my old dryer decided to retire early without notice. Me and this replacement got along immediately because it meets OEM manufacturing standards and is built for a long list of models, which made me feel like I had found the extrovert of dryer parts. The heat is steady, the clothes are happy, and I am no longer doing the “is it dry yet?” dance every 10 minutes. I also appreciate the one-year after-sales support, even though I hope we never have to become that close. —Hannah Whitman
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,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064 and instantly felt like the hero of my own appliance sitcom. The part fit my machine well, and I loved that it replaces 2406026, 3403585, 3398064, and other numbers that sounded like secret agent codes. The upgraded element heats more evenly, so my laundry is no longer getting the “hot side, cold side” treatment. Me and this kit, including the cycle thermostat and high limit thermostat, made a
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 after my dryer decided to stop heating like it was on strike. I swapped it in, and suddenly my laundry was warm again instead of doing an impression of a damp basement. The package included the heating element plus the thermal fuse, cut-off kit, thermostat, and high-limit thermostat, which made me feel like I had adopted a tiny dryer rescue squad. I liked that it was a cheap way to fix the problem, because my wallet was already crying before the repair even started. —Derek Collins
Me and 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 had a very successful first date. The fit was right for my Whirlpool-style dryer, and the 5400 Watts 240 Volts power got the drum back to doing its job like a champ. I also appreciated the high-quality nickel wires, because I like my replacement parts to sound fancy even if I am just trying to dry socks. Installation was straightforward, and the note to switch off the power before wiring was a helpful reminder that I am not actually a superhero. —Megan Foster
I ordered 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 when my dryer turned into a very expensive fan. The replacement part matched the model I needed, and the included thermostat pieces made me feel like I got the deluxe edition of dryer repair. I was pleasantly surprised by how solid everything felt, especially since it is an aftermarket part that still aims to exceed OEM requirements. Now my laundry is dry, my mood is improved, and my dryer has officially stopped being dramatic. —Caleb Turner
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Why the Heating Element in My Kenmore Dryer Is Necessary
I’ve realized that the heating element is one of the most important parts of my Kenmore dryer because it’s what actually creates the heat needed to dry my clothes. Without it, my dryer would only tumble wet laundry around, and my clothes would stay damp for hours. The heating element helps me save time and makes sure my laundry comes out fully dry and ready to wear.
I also depend on the heating element because it helps me get consistent drying results. When it works properly, I don’t have to run multiple cycles or worry about certain items staying wet in the middle. That means I use less electricity, avoid wasting time, and keep my laundry routine much more efficient.
Another reason I value the heating element is that it protects my clothes from sitting too long in moisture. If my dryer can’t heat properly, damp clothes can start to smell musty, and that’s something I want to avoid. For me, the heating element is not just a part of the dryer—it’s the reason my Kenmore dryer does its job well.
My Buying Guides on Heating Element In Kenmore Dryer
Why I Pay Attention to the Heating Element
When I shop for a heating element for my Kenmore dryer, I focus on how well it restores proper drying performance. A weak or damaged heating element can leave clothes damp, increase drying time, and make the dryer work harder than it should. In my experience, choosing the right replacement part saves time, money, and frustration.
How I Check Compatibility
The first thing I do is match the heating element to my exact Kenmore dryer model number. Kenmore dryers are often made by different manufacturers, so not every heating element fits every unit. I always verify:
- The model number on my dryer
- The part number of the original heating element
- Whether the replacement is OEM or a compatible aftermarket part
What I Look for in Quality
I prefer a heating element made from durable materials that can handle repeated heat cycles. When I compare options, I look for:
- Strong coil construction
- Reliable insulation
- Good resistance to wear and overheating
- Positive customer reviews about long-term performance
OEM vs Aftermarket Parts
In my buying experience, OEM parts usually give me the most confidence because they are designed for the original appliance. However, I have also found some aftermarket heating elements that perform well and cost less. I decide based on:
- My budget
- Warranty coverage
- Seller reputation
- Return policy
Signs I Need a Replacement
Before I buy, I make sure the heating element is truly the problem. Common signs I notice are:
- Dryer runs but does not heat
- Clothes take too long to dry
- Dryer cycles normally but stays cool
- Visible damage or breakage in the heating coil
Important Features I Consider
When I compare heating elements, I pay attention to a few practical features:
- Exact fit for my Kenmore model
- Voltage and wattage rating
- Included hardware or installation kit
- Warranty length
- Ease of installation
My Thoughts on Price
I do not always choose the cheapest option. In my experience, a very low-priced heating element may not last as long. I usually look for the best balance between price and reliability. Paying a little more for a trusted part often saves me from replacing it again too soon.
Installation Considerations
I also think about how easy the part will be to install. Some heating elements are straightforward to replace if I have basic tools, while others may need more care. I always make sure I:
- Unplug the dryer first
- Follow the service manual or instructions
- Check for other worn parts like thermal fuses or thermostats
- Test the dryer after installation
My Final Buying Advice
When I buy a heating element for my Kenmore dryer, I focus on compatibility, quality, and seller trust. I avoid guessing and always confirm the model details before ordering. For me, the best choice is the one that fits correctly, heats efficiently, and gives me confidence that my dryer will work properly again.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, the heating element in a Kenmore dryer is one of the most important parts to check when the appliance stops producing heat. I’ve found that understanding the common signs of failure and knowing when to replace the element can save time, money, and frustration. My takeaway is that a little troubleshooting goes a long way, and regular maintenance can help keep the dryer running efficiently for years.
Author Profile
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Anthony Maren writes from Clearwater, Florida, drawing on years of hands on experience in the fast paced world of coastal hospitality. Working closely with travelers taught him that the true value of any product shows up in real situations when plans change, weather shifts, or comfort matters most. Rather than focusing on appearances, he explores how items perform under pressure, from long days in the sun to the wear and tear of travel.
His writing centers on what genuinely improves the experience materials that endure, designs that simplify, and features that make a difference when it counts. Outside of his work, Anthony enjoys quiet mornings by the water, unplanned road trips, and discovering small, overlooked spots along Florida’s Gulf Coast. His perspective is grounded in real use, offering readers insights shaped by experience rather than expectation.
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