Kenmore Dryer Not Heating – Is the Heating Element the Fix?
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Understanding the Problem
If your Kenmore electric dryer tumbles but produces little or no heat, a failed heating element is one of the most common causes. The heating element is a coiled filament or cartridge that converts electrical energy into heat; when it burns open or shorts, the dryer will still spin but won't dry clothes. Other related components (thermal fuse, thermostats, cycling control) can also cause the same symptom, so it's important to isolate the heating element before replacing parts. Testing the element is a straightforward electrical check for continuity with a multimeter. Also inspect the element assembly visually — look for breaks in the coil or evidence of burning/shorting where the element touches the metal housing. Remember to disconnect power at the breaker before opening the dryer and follow model-specific disassembly instructions (Kenmore dryers are often OEM-built by Whirlpool/Maytag, so part fitment varies by model number).
Common Symptoms
Dryer tumbles but doesn't heat or takes extremely long to dry; intermittent heating; burning smell or visible damage around the element housing.
Common Causes
- Broken or burned heating element coil (open circuit)
- Failed thermal fuse or high-limit thermostat cutting power to element
- Short to ground (element touching housing) or wiring/connectors damaged
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Helpful Repair Tip
Unplug the dryer and remove the rear access panel. Set a multimeter to ohms and measure continuity across the heating element terminals — an open (infinite) reading means the element is bad. If the element has continuity, test the thermal fuse and thermostats next.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the heating element myself?
Yes — replacing a dryer heating element is a common DIY repair if you have basic tools and follow safety steps. Always disconnect the dryer from electrical power at the breaker (do not rely on the cord plug alone). Remove the access panel to reach the element housing, note wiring positions or take a photo, remove the element assembly, install the new part, and reassemble. If you’re uncomfortable working with mains electricity or the dryer requires major disassembly, hire a qualified technician.
How do I know if the problem is the heating element and not the thermal fuse or thermostat?
Start by testing the heating element for continuity with a multimeter — no continuity means the element is open and needs replacement. If the element has continuity, next test the thermal fuse and thermostats (they should also show continuity). The thermal fuse is a one-time safety device that will cut power to the element if the dryer overheats; a blown thermal fuse is a very common cause of no-heat symptoms and must be replaced if open.
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