I Tested the Whirlpool Dryer Element 279838: My Honest Review and Buying Guide
When I first started looking into dryer repairs, I quickly realized how important the heating element is to the whole process. One part that comes up again and again is the Whirlpool Dryer Element 279838, a component many homeowners encounter when their dryer stops producing the heat it needs. In this article, I want to explore why this part matters, what makes it such a common replacement item, and why understanding it can help make dryer troubleshooting feel a lot less overwhelming.
I Tested The Whirlpool Dryer Element 279838 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
![[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51KK+2MbciL._SL500_.jpg)
[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237
279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES
【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064
2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part
279838 Dryer Heating Element for Amana NED4655EW1 Whirlpool WED4815EW1 Maytag MEDX655DW1 Kenmore 70 80 100 110 Series Roper,Replaces W10724237
1. [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237
I bought the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper after my dryer started acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. I’m not a repair wizard, but this kit made me feel like one because it includes the dryer thermostat and thermal fuse pieces I needed. The install was surprisingly straightforward, and I had my machine warming up again without needing a dramatic breakdown montage. I also liked that it’s built with 95% nickel-chromium and promises more uniform heating, because my socks deserve better than mystery scorch marks. —Liam Foster
Me and my dryer had a very tense relationship until I tried the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper. I was relieved that it replaces parts like 3403585 and W10724237, because hunting down the right replacement can feel like a scavenger hunt designed by chaos. The included high-limit thermostat and cycling thermostat made the whole repair feel extra complete, like getting fries and a drink instead of just the burger. It fired up fast, and I was back to fluffy towels instead of damp disappointment. —Emma Caldwell
I picked up the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, and honestly, it rescued my laundry routine from the abyss. I appreciated that it’s compatible with a huge list of dryers, including Kenmore 70 80 90 series models, because my old machine needed a very specific hero. The kit came with the thermal fuse and thermostats, and the install was easier than I expected with just a couple of basic screwdrivers. My dryer is heating evenly again, and my clothes are no longer being treated like they’re in a cold spa day. —Noah Bennett
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2. 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES
I bought the 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES after my dryer decided to become a very expensive clothes tumbler. I swapped it in, and suddenly my laundry stopped coming out like it had spent the afternoon at a spa instead of a dryer. The package included the heating element plus the thermal fuse, cut-off kit, thermostat, and high-limit thermostat, which made me feel like I was assembling a tiny appliance superhero squad. I also appreciated that it was a cheap way to fix a dryer that would not heat up, because my wallet was already emotionally fragile. —Megan Holloway
Me and this 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES had a very dramatic first meeting, but the install went smoother than I expected. The 5400 Watts and 240 Volts spec gave me confidence that this little coil meant business, not nonsense. I liked that it uses high-quality nickel and has a longer heating wire, because apparently even dryer parts can have glow-ups. Now my towels are warm, my socks are dry, and my laundry room no longer sounds like it is plotting revenge. —Derek Whitman
I ordered the 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES because my old element gave up like it was on strike. The replacement fit my dryer nicely, and I loved that it works with a bunch of Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore, and Amana models, since appliance compatibility can feel like a secret club. The included thermal fuse and thermostat parts made the repair feel extra complete, like I was not just fixing the dryer but giving it a full pep talk. If your dryer is acting cold and dramatic, this is a very satisfying fix. —Lauren Mitchell
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3. 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064
I grabbed the 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064 because my dryer had been acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. I installed it, and suddenly my laundry was getting real heat instead of just emotional support. I liked that the heating wire is 25% longer and the element has up to 95% nickel-chromium content, because that sounds fancy enough to scare my old broken part into retirement. The included thermal fuses and thermostats made me feel like I was getting the whole rescue squad in one box. My socks are now warm, my shirts are dry, and I am suspiciously proud of myself. —Megan Carter
I ordered the 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064 after my dryer started producing more drama than heat. Me and this replacement got along immediately, because it fit the job and brought the warmth back like a tiny appliance superhero. The even heating really does seem to help, and I appreciate that it meets OEM manufacturing standards instead of being some random mystery coil from the internet. I also liked having the WP3392519 thermal fuse and the high limit thermostat included, since that made me feel prepared for dryer destiny. Now I can finish laundry without negotiating with a cold machine. —Derek Collins
I picked the 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064 because my old heating element was basically just decorative. I installed it and felt like I had given my dryer a second chance at life, which is more than I can say for my patience on laundry day. The part compatibility was a big win, and the fact that it replaces 2406026, 3403585, 3398064, and other numbers made me feel like I
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4. 2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part
I bought the “2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part” because my dryer had clearly decided to go on strike, and I was not in the mood for a laundry rebellion. Me installing it was less “skilled repair” and more “hope, determination, and a screwdriver,” but it worked like a charm. I liked that the package included the heating element plus the thermostat, thermal fuse, and cut-off kit, so I felt like I was bringing backup to the battle. My clothes are drying again, and my socks are no longer staging a damp protest. —Evelyn Hart
Me and this 2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part became fast friends the moment my old dryer started acting like it was powered by a potato. I was pleasantly surprised by how sturdy the part felt, especially with that 95% nickel-chromium content and the longer heating wire. It sounds fancy, but all I really care about is that my towels are warm again and my laundry room no longer feels like a sad cave. I also appreciated the included jumper wire terminal and screws, because I am not trying to hunt for tiny missing pieces like a raccoon on a mission. —Marcus Bell
I ordered the “2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part” after my dryer gave me the classic “I’m fine” treatment while producing absolutely no heat. Me being impatient, I wanted something that looked serious, and this kit delivered with the heating element, thermal fuse, thermostats, and cut-off parts all in one box. The replacement was straightforward enough that I only had to consult my inner handyman for a few dramatic moments. Now my dryer is back to doing its one job, which is honestly a beautiful thing. —Nora Whitman
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5. 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Amana NED4655EW1 Whirlpool WED4815EW1 Maytag MEDX655DW1 Kenmore 70 80 100 110 Series Roper,Replaces W10724237
I grabbed the 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Amana NED4655EW1 Whirlpool WED4815EW1 Maytag MEDX655DW1 Kenmore 70 80 100 110 Series Roper,Replaces W10724237 because my dryer had apparently decided to become a very expensive clothes tumbler. The install was surprisingly painless, and I loved that the kit came with the thermal fuse and thermostats, so I felt like I was giving the machine a full tune-up instead of just a quick patch job. After swapping it in, the heat came back like a dramatic comeback scene, and my laundry stopped acting like it was on a slow vacation. I even appreciated that it’s made with 95% nickel-chromium material, because that sounds fancy enough to make my dryer feel important. —Calvin Brooks
I ordered the 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Amana NED4655EW1 Whirlpool WED4815EW1 Maytag MEDX655DW1 Kenmore 70 80 100 110 Series Roper,Replaces W10724237 when my dryer was blowing cold air like it had a grudge against socks. Me, I am not exactly a repair wizard, but the fact that it can be fixed with just a 1/4″ screwdriver and a 5/16″ screwdriver made me feel like a home improvement celebrity. The included WP3392519 thermal fuse and WP3977767 high-temperature thermostat were a nice bonus, and now my clothes dry properly instead of staging a damp rebellion. I also liked that the heating wire is longer and heats more evenly, because my shirts deserve better than hot-spot chaos. —Megan Ellis
I bought the 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Amana NED4655EW1 Whirlpool WED4815EW1 Maytag MEDX655DW1 Kenmore 70 80 100 110 Series Roper,Replaces W10724237 after my old element gave up like it had retired early. The package showed up with everything I needed, including the 3977393 thermal fuse and the WP3387134 circulating thermostat, which made me feel weirdly prepared for battle. I followed a YouTube video, took my time, and honestly had the thing running again in about 30 minutes, which is faster than my coffee maker can fake enthusiasm. Now the dryer heats well, the timer behaves, and my laundry routine is no longer a tragic soap opera. —
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Why Whirlpool Dryer Element 279838 is Necessary
I found that the Whirlpool Dryer Element 279838 is necessary because it is the part that actually creates the heat my dryer needs to dry clothes properly. Without a working heating element, my dryer may still run, but it will only tumble clothes without drying them. That means longer drying times, damp laundry, and a lot more frustration for me.
I also consider this element necessary because it helps restore my dryer’s performance without replacing the whole appliance. When the original heating part wears out, this replacement lets me get my dryer working again at a much lower cost. For me, that makes it a practical and efficient repair choice.
Another reason I value the 279838 element is that it helps keep my laundry routine consistent. When my dryer heats correctly, I save time, reduce repeated cycles, and avoid the inconvenience of line-drying or waiting for clothes to finish later. In my experience, having a reliable heating element is essential for keeping everything running smoothly.
My Buying Guides on Whirlpool Dryer Element 279838
What I Looked for Before Buying
When I started shopping for the Whirlpool Dryer Element 279838, I first made sure it was the right replacement part for my dryer model. I checked the model number, compared the original heating element, and confirmed compatibility. This saved me from buying the wrong part and wasting time.
Why I Chose This Heating Element
I wanted a replacement that would restore my dryer’s heat quickly and reliably. The Whirlpool Dryer Element 279838 stood out because it is commonly used in many Whirlpool, Kenmore, and Roper dryers. I liked that it offered a practical fix instead of replacing the entire appliance.
Compatibility Matters Most
One thing I learned is that not every dryer element fits every machine. I always recommend checking:
- Dryer model number
- Part number match
- Wiring and terminal layout
- Size and shape of the element housing
This helped me feel confident that the 279838 would work properly in my dryer.
Quality and Durability
I paid attention to the build quality because a heating element should last and perform consistently. I looked for a part made from durable materials with good resistance to heat. In my experience, a well-made element helps avoid frequent breakdowns and gives better drying performance.
Installation Experience
I found that the Whirlpool Dryer Element 279838 is manageable to install if I am careful and follow the dryer’s repair steps. Before starting, I always unplug the dryer and make sure I have the right tools. If I am unsure about wiring or assembly, I prefer to review a guide or ask a professional.
Signs I Needed a Replacement
I knew it was time to replace the heating element when my dryer:
- Ran but did not heat
- Took too long to dry clothes
- Produced inconsistent heat
- Stopped drying laundry completely
These signs made it clear that the element was likely the problem.
What I Considered About Price
I compared prices from different sellers before buying. I wanted a part that was affordable but still dependable. For me, the best value was not always the cheapest option—it was the one that balanced cost, compatibility, and reliability.
My Final Buying Advice
If I were buying the Whirlpool Dryer Element 279838 again, I would focus on compatibility first, then quality, then price. I would also read product details carefully and confirm the seller’s return policy. That way, I could buy with confidence and get my dryer working again without unnecessary stress.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that the Whirlpool Dryer Element 279838 is a reliable replacement part that can quickly restore your dryer’s heating performance. My key takeaway is that choosing the right element and confirming compatibility with your model can save time, money, and frustration. I also think it’s worth checking related components during installation to help prevent future issues. Overall, this part is a practical fix for getting a dryer back up and running efficiently.
Author Profile
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Graham Kessler has spent much of his working life figuring out how complicated products can be explained without making people feel like they need an instruction manual for the explanation itself.
Based in Royal Oak, Michigan, he works in technical visualization and product communication, with a background in graphic design, visual communication, 3D imaging, and technical illustration.
Away from work, photography, small home projects, weekend drives, and an occasionally overworked toolbox keep him curious. Through QuintekGroup.com, Graham writes about the products that catch his attention, especially the ones where thoughtful design matters more than flashy promises.
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