Gas Valve Solenoids (Part 279834) – What This Part Does and How to Replace It

Understanding the Problem

Part 279834 is a gas valve solenoid kit used on many gas dryers to actuate the gas valve when the igniter and control allow fuel flow. The solenoids are low-profile electromagnetic coils that pull the gas valve plunger open in sequence so gas flows to the burner. When one or more solenoids fail, the dryer may not ignite, may ignite intermittently, or may have weak flame or delayed ignition. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair instructions: 1) Confirm part and symptoms: verify your dryer model and that replacement part 279834 fits (check model/parts diagram). Symptoms pointing to solenoids include no heat with motor running, a glowing igniter that doesn’t light gas, or a click without gas flow. 2) Safety first: unplug the dryer and shut off the household gas supply at the appliance shutoff. Work in a well-ventilated area and have a gas leak test method (soapy water) ready before restoring gas. 3) Access the gas valve: remove the dryer front panel or the rear access panel per your model’s service manual to reach the burner box. The gas valve with the coils is mounted to the burner housing. 4) Visual inspection: look for burned, cracked, or melted coil housings, scorched wiring, or loose connectors. Check the igniter and flame sensor for damage — a bad igniter/sensor can make the control stop sending voltage to the solenoids. 5) Electrical test (cold): using a multimeter set to continuity/ohms, check each coil for continuity. A completely open coil indicates a failed solenoid. Note: exact coil resistance varies by model; open = bad. Compare all coils — if one or two differ significantly, they should be replaced. 6) Live-voltage check (with extreme caution): if you are comfortable and have experience, restore power and gas, start a short dry cycle, and measure whether the control sends the correct rated voltage to the solenoid terminals when ignition should occur. Do not short or bypass safety devices. If the control is not sending voltage, the problem may be the control board or safety sensors (thermostat, flame sensor), not the coils. 7) Replace the solenoids: if coils are open/shorted or visibly damaged, replace them with part 279834. Typical replacement steps: a) Unplug dryer and turn off gas; b) remove wires from solenoid terminals (label or photograph them first); c) remove the retaining screws or bracket securing the solenoid assembly; d) slide the old coils off the valve stem or unclip them per design and install the new kit, ensuring proper alignment and seating; e) reconnect wiring exactly as found; f) reassemble panels. 8) Leak and function test: turn gas back on, check all gas connections for leaks with soapy water, restore power, run a short test cycle and observe ignition. Confirm flame lights quickly and stays lit for the cycle. 9) Troubleshoot further if needed: if new solenoids still don’t produce ignition, test the igniter, flame sensor/thermocouple, thermostats, safety cutouts, and control board output. Safety note: gas components are dangerous. If you are not experienced with appliance gas/electrical systems, hire a qualified technician. Always shut off gas and power before working on the dryer and test for leaks after reassembly.

Common Symptoms

No heat (motor runs), igniter glows but no flame, delayed ignition, intermittent heating, or a clicking sound from the burner area without gas flow.

Common Causes

• Failed/open solenoid coils on the gas valve
• Wiring harness or connector corrosion/failure to the solenoids
• Control board or safety device (igniter, flame sensor, thermostat) not signaling the solenoids

Popular Parts That Fix This Problem

These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.

Frequently Asked Questions