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How to Test and Replace a Dryer Heating Element

Jul 25, 2023, 12:57pm

To dry the laundry, the dryer needs a heating element: this is the resistance. This resistance heats the air in the drum and dries the clothes. After many uses, it may wear out and work less well.

Before the intervention remember to disconnect your device electrically.

It must be replaced if you notice one of the following faults:

  • The laundry is still damp after a drying cycle.
  • The dryer is tripping the electrical installation.

Access to the resistance is through the back of the device. It will be necessary to dismantle the rear wall, because it is found behind the drum of the dryer.

The heating element in a dryer is responsible for generating the heat needed to dry your laundry efficiently. If your dryer is not producing enough heat or no heat at all, the heating element may be faulty and in need of testing and replacement. Testing the heating element before replacing it can help you confirm if it is indeed the cause of the problem. With the right tools and some basic knowledge, you can perform these tasks yourself. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through how to test and replace a dryer heating element.

Please Note: Before starting any repair work on your dryer, prioritize safety. Ensure the dryer is disconnected from the power supply by either unplugging it from the electrical outlet or switching off the circuit breaker dedicated to the dryer.

How to Test and Replace a Dryer Heating Element

Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you begin the process of testing and replacing the dryer heating element, gather the following tools and materials:

  • Replacement dryer heating element (ensure it is compatible with your dryer model)
  • Multimeter
  • Screwdriver
  • Pliers
  • Towels or rags

Step 2: Disconnect the Dryer from the Power Supply

Before working on the dryer, ensure it is disconnected from the power supply to avoid any electrical hazards. Unplug the dryer from the electrical outlet or switch off the circuit breaker dedicated to the dryer.

Step 3: Access the Dryer Heating Element

To access the dryer heating element, follow these steps:

  1. Use a screwdriver to remove any screws securing the dryer’s top panel to the cabinet. Slide a putty knife or similar tool between the top and front panels to release any hidden clips.
  2. Lift the top panel and prop it up securely.
  3. Locate and remove the screws securing the front panel to the sides of the cabinet.
  4. Carefully tilt the front panel forward and disconnect any wires or cables attached to the door switch.
  5. Set the front panel aside.
  6. Now, you will have access to the internal components of the dryer, including the heating element.

Step 4: Test the Dryer Heating Element

To test the dryer heating element using a multimeter, follow these steps:

  1. Set your multimeter to the “Ohms” or “Resistance” setting.
  2. Disconnect the wires from the heating element terminals.
  3. Place the multimeter probes on the two terminals of the heating element.
  4. Read the multimeter display. If the heating element is functional, the multimeter should show a low resistance reading. If the reading is infinite or very high, the heating element is likely faulty and needs to be replaced.

Step 5: Replace the Faulty Dryer Heating Element

With the faulty heating element identified, it’s time to replace it:

  1. Use pliers to disconnect any brackets or fasteners securing the heating element in place.
  2. Carefully slide the old heating element out of its position.
  3. Take the replacement dryer heating element and slide it into the same slot or holder from which you removed the old element.
  4. Secure the new heating element with the brackets or fasteners you removed earlier.

Step 6: Reassemble the Dryer

With the new dryer heating element installed, it’s time to reassemble the dryer:

  1. Replace the dryer’s front panel and secure it with the screws you removed earlier.
  2. Reconnect any wires or cables attached to the door switch.
  3. Lower the top panel back into position and secure it with the screws or clips.

How to Test and Replace a Dryer Heating Element

Step 7: Test the Dryer Again

Before pushing the dryer back into its designated spot, perform another test to ensure the new heating element is functioning correctly. Turn on the dryer and observe if it produces heat during a drying cycle.

Conclusion

Testing and replacing a dryer heating element is a task that requires attention to detail and safety. By following this step-by-step guide and prioritizing safety, you can successfully test and replace a faulty heating element in your dryer, ensuring it operates efficiently and provides you with perfectly dried laundry. However, if you encounter any difficulties during the process or have concerns about handling the repair, it’s always best to seek assistance from a professional dryer technician. With the new heating element properly installed, your dryer should function reliably and effectively, making laundry drying a breeze once again.