RED4516FW0 Heating Element Failure – What Part Fixes This Problem?
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
If your RED4516FW0 dryer runs but does not produce heat (or only produces a little heat), the most likely cause is a failed heating element or a related safety/control component. Electric dryers use a metal coil heating element to generate heat; when that coil breaks or shorts, the dryer will tumble without heating. Other components—thermal fuse, cycling thermostat, high-limit thermostat, and the power supply—also play a role and can mimic a failed element. Diagnosing the true cause requires both a visual inspection and electrical tests. A broken or visibly damaged coil usually indicates replacement of the heating element assembly. However, if the element is intact you should test continuity on the element and the thermal safety devices with a multimeter, and confirm the dryer is receiving the correct line voltage at the terminal block. Replacing the element without checking the thermal fuse or thermostats can lead to repeat failure or unsafe operation.
Common Symptoms
Dryer motor runs but no heat; only slightly warm; loads take a very long time to dry; dryer trips the circuit breaker when heating; burning smell or visible damage to the heating coil.
Common Causes
- Open or burned heating element coil (most common)
- Blown thermal fuse or failed high-limit thermostat (safety parts that cut heat)
- Faulty cycling thermostat or control board preventing element from getting power
- Insufficient power (lost 120V leg) or bad terminal block/cord
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.
Helpful Repair Tip
Before buying a part, remove the rear panel and visually inspect the coil for breaks. Then use a multimeter set to ohms to check continuity across the heating element terminals; no continuity indicates a bad element. Also test the thermal fuse for continuity—if the fuse is open, replace it along with or before the element.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I test the heating element on my RED4516FW0?
Unplug the dryer and remove the rear panel to access the heating element. Visually inspect the coil for breaks or burn spots. Set a multimeter to the lowest ohms range and measure across the element terminals—good elements typically show low resistance (a few ohms); an open (infinite) reading means the element is bad. Also check continuity from each element terminal to the metal housing—a short to ground indicates a failed element and it should be replaced.
Can I replace the heating element myself, and should I replace any other parts at the same time?
Yes, if you are comfortable with basic electrical safety and using hand tools, you can replace the heating element yourself: disconnect power, remove panels, swap the assembly, and reconnect wiring. Always inspect and test the thermal fuse and thermostats while you have the dryer open—if a thermal fuse is blown it will need replacement and, because they often fail together, it's wise to have the correct fuse and thermostat parts on hand. If you detect any damaged wiring or a burnt terminal block, replace those too. If you're unsure about mains voltage or wiring, hire a qualified technician.
Related How-To Videos
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at ProsourceParts.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to ProsourceParts.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.