Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element Not Heating – What Part Fixes This Problem?
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Understanding the Problem
If your Whirlpool dryer runs but does not produce heat, the most common cause is a failed heating element or a related safety/temperature control component (thermal fuse, cycling thermostat, high-limit thermostat). Electric dryers rely on the heating element to generate hot air; when the coil breaks or key safety devices open, the dryer will tumble without warming. Gas dryers use a gas valve/igniter system instead, so the diagnosis and parts differ for gas models. A thorough diagnosis checks the heating element assembly for continuity, inspects the thermal fuse and thermostats, and verifies that full voltage reaches the element on electric models. Don’t assume the coil is the only culprit—many Whirlpool dryers are designed so a single open safety part will stop heat to prevent fires. Proper testing with a multimeter avoids unnecessary parts replacement and gets the dryer back to working safely.
Common Symptoms
Dryer drum tumbles normally but clothes remain cold or only slightly warm; sometimes dryer trips a breaker or shows intermittent heat; burnt smell or visible damage when inspecting the element assembly.
Common Causes
- Broken/open heating element coil
- Blown/open thermal (safety) fuse
- Failed cycling thermostat or high-limit thermostat
- Blocked venting causing overheating and tripping thermostats/fuse
- Control board or timer not supplying power to the element (less common)
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 parts, remove power and test continuity across the heating element and the thermal fuse with a multimeter. If the element shows continuity but the thermal fuse is open, replace the thermal fuse first—it's a common, inexpensive fix.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace the heating element myself on a Whirlpool dryer?
Yes — if you are comfortable with basic appliance repair and electrical safety. Unplug the dryer (or turn off the breaker), access the rear or front panel per your model’s service instructions, visually inspect the element for broken coils, and test continuity with a multimeter. If the element is open, remove the mounting screws and wiring, install the replacement, and reassemble. If you’re unsure or the diagnosis points to electrical/control issues, contact a qualified technician.
How do I test a dryer heating element to know it’s bad?
Unplug the dryer. Remove the element access panel to expose the coil. Set a multimeter to the lowest ohms (Ω) range. Test continuity across the element terminals — a good element typically shows a low resistance (several ohms to a few dozen ohms depending on design). If the meter reads infinite resistance (open), the element is broken and should be replaced. Also check continuity of the thermal fuse and thermostats; if any safety device is open, replace it as well. Always confirm you removed power before testing.
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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.