279834 Gas Valve Solenoid Coil Kit — Fix a Gas Dryer That Won't Ignite
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Understanding the Problem
What this part is and why it matters: The 279834 kit contains the solenoid coils (ignition coils) that pull in the plungers of the gas valve on many Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore and Frigidaire gas dryers. When the dryer calls for heat the control sends voltage to these coils; the coils magnetically lift valve plungers to open the gas ports. When coils fail the gas valve won’t open and the burner won't light even though the igniter glows. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair instructions: 1. Safety first: Unplug the dryer from power and shut off the gas supply at the shutoff valve. Work in a well-ventilated area and have a soap-and-water solution for leak checks. If you smell gas, stop and ventilate; do not create sparks and call a pro. 2. Confirm symptom: Start a timed dry cycle. If the drum tumbles and the igniter glows but the burner never lights, or if nothing happens when heat is selected, suspect the gas valve coils among other components. 3. Check related items before replacing coils: a. Thermal fuse/thermostats/thermistor: Use a multimeter to verify continuity on the thermal fuse and high-limit thermostats—an open thermal fuse will prevent the gas valve from getting voltage. b. Igniter: If the igniter doesn’t glow at all, verify that it receives voltage; if igniter is broken, replace it. c. Gas supply: Make sure gas is on and piping is open. Verify other gas appliances work. 4. Access the gas valve coils: a. Move dryer away from wall, unplug and shut off gas. b. Remove the dryer top and/or front panel per your model (usually 2-4 screws, clips). On many models the front panel drops down or the top lifts. c. Locate the gas valve assembly near the burner box; the coils are the small stacked coil assemblies mounted on the front of the valve. 5. Test the coils with a multimeter: a. With power still disconnected, probe the coil terminals for continuity. A good coil will show continuity (not infinite). If a coil is open (infinite resistance), it’s failed. b. Optionally, during a powered test (only if you are qualified), check for voltage to the coil during the ignition sequence—if there is voltage but coil is open or doesn't pull the plunger, the coil is bad. 6. Replace the coils (279834): a. Remove the electrical connectors from the coils—note wire positions or take a photo. b. Remove screws or retainer clips holding the coils to the gas valve. Carefully lift coils off the valve solenoids (they may slide off with a bracket). c. Transfer any metal clip or bracket and the small plastic or rubber valve caps as needed to the new coils (some kits include new caps). Make sure valve plunger tips and seals are correctly seated. d. Install new coils in the same orientation and secure clips/screws. e. Reconnect the wiring exactly as removed (maintain correct terminal positions). 7. Reassemble and test: a. Restore gas and plug in the dryer. b. Turn on the dryer and run a cycle while watching for ignition. Listen for the click of the valve and verify burner lights. c. Check gas connections for leaks with soapy water (bubbles indicate leak). Tighten fittings if necessary, then retest. 8. Final verification: Confirm multiple cycles ignite reliably and check for any error codes. Safety note: Working on gas appliances involves real safety risks (gas leaks, fire). If you're not comfortable shutting off gas, testing live circuits, or reinstalling gas fittings, hire a qualified technician. Always shut off gas and electricity before starting repairs.
Common Symptoms
Dryer tumbles but won’t heat; igniter glows but no flame; gas valve does not click; intermittent ignition; burned or melted coil housing visible on inspection.
Common Causes
- Electrical coil burnout or open circuit inside the solenoid
- Worn or stuck valve plungers due to debris or failed valve seals
- No voltage reaching coils because of blown thermal fuse, thermostat, or control failure
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Helpful Repair Tip
If the igniter glows but the burner never lights and the coils show no continuity (open circuit) with a multimeter, the 279834 coil kit is almost certainly the fix—replace the entire coil assembly rather than a single coil to ensure consistent operation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace just one failed coil or do I need to replace the whole kit?
Replace the entire coil assembly as a kit. Coils are sold and mounted together and often fail in groups; swapping only one can lead to mismatched performance and early repeat failure. Kits like 279834 include the matched coils and any necessary clips or caps.
How long does replacing the 279834 coils take and do I need special tools?
Typical replacement time is 30–60 minutes for someone comfortable with basic appliance disassembly. Tools needed: Phillips and/or Torx screwdrivers, nut driver set, multimeter for diagnosis, slip-joint pliers, and a soap solution for leak checking. No special tools required, but follow all gas and electrical safety steps.
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