Dryer Heating Element 279838 – What Part Fixes a Dryer That Won't Heat?
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
What 279838 is and why you might need it: The 279838 is the electric heating element assembly used in many Whirlpool, Kenmore, Amana and compatible electric dryers. If your dryer tumbles but produces little or no heat, or it overheats and trips a thermal fuse, the heating element assembly is one of the first parts to check. Step-by-step diagnostic and repair procedure: 1) Safety first: Unplug the dryer or switch off the circuit breaker. Electric dryers carry lethal voltage—do not skip power disconnection. 2) Confirm symptom: Run a short dry cycle and verify the drum is turning and there's no (or very low) heat. Check the house breaker and dryer timer settings to rule out simple power or control issues. 3) Access the heating element: Most models with part 279838 are accessed through the rear panel or the front lower access panel. Remove the appropriate access panel screws and carefully pull the heating element housing forward. 4) Visual inspection: Look for visibly broken coils, burn marks, melted insulation, or heavy lint buildup inside the element housing. A broken coil is an obvious sign the element needs replacement. 5) Test for continuity: Set a multimeter to the lowest ohms/continuity setting. With the dryer still unplugged, disconnect the element’s wiring harness. Probe the element terminals — you should read near zero ohms (continuity). An open (OL or infinite) reading means the element is failed. 6) Check related safety parts: If the element is OK, test the thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat(s). A blown thermal fuse (common cause of no heat) will show no continuity. Replace the fuse if blown, but only after fixing the root cause (e.g., failed element or clogged vent). 7) Replace the element assembly: If the element is open or visibly damaged, replace with part 279838 (see replacement steps below). If the element was shorted to ground, inspect wiring and cabinet for damage. 8) Reassemble and test: Reconnect wiring, reattach the panel, restore power, and run a test cycle. Monitor heat rise and make sure the dryer no longer trips the thermal fuse. Basic replacement steps (summary): 1) Unplug dryer and move it away from the wall for access. 2) Remove the appropriate access panel (rear panel on many models). 3) Note and/or photograph wiring location, then disconnect the wires from the heating element terminals. 4) Remove mounting screws and take out the old heating element assembly. 5) Install the new 279838 element in the same orientation, secure with screws, and reconnect wires to the correct terminals. 6) Reinstall the access panel, restore power, and run a test load. Safety note: Always disconnect power before testing or replacing heating components. If a thermal fuse has blown, do not simply replace it without diagnosing why it blew—blocked vents, a failed element, or a stuck thermostat can cause overheating and will kill a new fuse as well.
Common Symptoms
Dryer tumbles but produces no or very little heat; long dry times; sometimes the dryer runs briefly then trips and stops heating (blown thermal fuse).
Common Causes
- Open or burned-out heating element coil inside the 279838 assembly
- Blown thermal fuse or failed high-limit thermostat caused by overheating
- Restricted venting or heavy lint buildup causing overheating and element/fuse failure
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
Use a multimeter: remove the element’s connector and check for continuity across the element leads — continuity confirms the element coil is intact. No continuity = replace 279838.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if part 279838 is the problem?
Unplug the dryer, disconnect the element wiring, and use a multimeter to check continuity across the element terminals. An open circuit (infinite resistance) indicates the heating coil is broken and the 279838 must be replaced. Also look for visible breaks or burn marks on the element coils.
Can I replace the 279838 heating element myself, and how long does it take?
Yes — a competent DIYer can replace it. Typical replacement time is 30–60 minutes depending on model and access. Always unplug the dryer first, remove the access panel, note wire locations (or take a photo), remove mounting screws, swap the old element for the new 279838, reconnect wires, and reassemble. If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components, hire a 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.