How to Fix the Heating Element for a Dryer That Is Not Heating

If your dryer is running but not heating, the heating element is an obvious and regular culprit. It’s right there in the name. The heating element is the component within your dryer that creates heat and works with the motor and inner drum to slowly dry the clothes in your load. If the heating element stops working properly, your dryer simply will not be able to do its job of drying your clothes, and it may begin to pose a safety hazard if not treated swiftly. Depending on whether your dryer is a gas or electric model, the parts associated with the assembly can be different, but if your dryer’s heating element stops working properly or you simply have suspicions about it, we have the comprehensive guide, with instructional videos and 3D renderings, to help you diagnose and fix your dryer.

What is a Heating Element?

A dryer’s heating element can vary in structure from gas to electric models, but generally it is a set of coils within a tube that gets extremely hot, paired with a blower that pushes the hot air produced by the heating element to slowly warm and dry your clothes.

Where is the Heating Element Located?

The heating element is normally located near the bottom and rear of the dryer cabinet, and can vary in size and general appearance. Refer to the 3D rendering below for help, or inspect your model’s user manual for the specific layout and location of your heating element.

General Location of the Heating Element in a Dryer

How to Access, Remove, and Inspect an Electric Heating Element

1. Turn off and disconnect your dryer, then move it away from the wall outlet.
2. Using the appropriate screwdriver, remove any securing screws on the back of your dryer.
3. Disconnect any wires connected to the heating element. Most can simply be wiggled off, but others may require a set of pliers if they’re more difficult. Remember to take photos of the wiring first so that you can see later how to reconnect it.
4. Remove any screws securing the heating element and lift out the heating element.

How to Access, Remove, and Inspect a Gas Heating Element

A gas dryer has a different set of parts that act as the heating element. These are the flame sensor, the gas valve, and the igniter.

1. Turn off and disconnect your dryer, then move it away from the gas lines and wall outlet.
2. Whether your dryer has a top-load or a front-load lint screen, remove the lint screen from your dryer.
3. Remove the top panel of your dryer to gain access to the front panel.
4. You will have to remove the hardware that secures the front panel to gain access to the front portion of your dryer.
5. Using the appropriate screwdriver, remove any screws securing the front portion of your dryer.
6. Remove the front portion of your dryer.
7. Locate the pulley(s) below your dryer belt and depress the tension to release the belt.
8. Lift the inner tub of your dryer out of the cabinet with the belt.
9. Locate the burner tube within your dryer near the bottom of the cabinet.
10. Disconnect the wires and loosen any screws securing the igniter and the flame sensor before removing them. Remember to take photos of the wiring first so that you can see how to reconnect it later.

How to Test the Electric Heating Element

1. With your multimeter, you’ll want to set it to continuity mode.
2. Then, touch the probes to the two terminals on the element.
3. If the multimeter gives an audible or visual indication of continuity, your problem is not with the heating element. However, if there is no indication, the heating element is bad.

How to Install a New Electric Heating Element

1. With the wire connectors already disconnected, remove any mounting screws or clips that are holding the Heating Element in place.
2. Pull out the Heating Element and discard it.
3. Place your new Heating Element inside the console and plug in the wire harnesses.
4. Reinstall the mounting screws or clips that secure it in place.
5. Fit your console back on to the machine.
6. You can now plug in your machine, and your repair is done.

How to Install a New Gas Heating Element

1. Install the new gas igniter, flame sensor, and valve. Make sure not to touch the element of the new gas igniter.
2. Secure each part with the appropriate screws.
3. Place the inner tub back within the dryer cabinet.
4. Pull the belt around the pulley(s) to engage them.
5. Place and secure the front portion of your dryer.
6. Replace the top portion and insert the lint screen.
7. You will need to test the gas line for leaks prior to reconnecting. If you’re not comfortable with doing this, it’s best to contact a licensed service technician to perform this service.
8. Connect the power and gas lines to your dryer, and your repair is now complete!

Next: Troubleshooting the Operating Thermostat

Go To Main Page: Not Heating