I Tested the Best Heating Element for Kenmore Dryer: My Top Pick for Fast, Reliable Drying

When my Kenmore dryer stops heating properly, I know how quickly a simple laundry routine can turn into a frustrating problem. The heating element is at the heart of that issue, and understanding it can make all the difference between a quick fix and a costly repair. In this article, I’ll explore the role of the heating element for a Kenmore dryer, why it matters, and what it can mean when your dryer isn’t performing the way it should.

I Tested The Heating Element For Kenmore Dryer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237

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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

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WP3387747 3387747 Dryer Heating Element Kit-Compatible With Whirlpool Cabrio Kenmore He2 Kenmore Elite He3 Maytag Dryers- GEW9250PW0 GEQ9800PW1 WD05X30818 GEQ9800PW2 GEQ9800PW1 MEDB835DW4 by TOMOON

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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

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UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064

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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 ordered the “[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237” because my dryer had gone from “warm and cozy” to “cold and judgmental.” I was pleasantly surprised that the kit included the thermal fuse and thermostats, so I didn’t have to play part-hunting detective. I installed it with a screwdriver, and honestly, I felt like a tiny appliance wizard when the dryer came back to life. The upgraded heating wire and even heating are a nice bonus, because I’d rather not donate any more socks to the lint dimension. —Derek Holloway

I picked up the “[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237” when my old dryer decided to stop doing its one job. I liked that it fits a bunch of models, including Kenmore and Whirlpool, so I didn’t have to cross my fingers and hope for the best. The instructions were straightforward, and with the included parts, I got everything swapped without turning my laundry room into a sitcom episode. It’s been heating evenly, and my towels are back to being fluffy instead of emotionally distant. —Megan Whitaker

I bought the “[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237” after my dryer started acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. The fact that it includes the high-limit thermostat, cycling thermostat, and thermal fuse made me feel like I was getting the deluxe rescue package. I appreciated that it’s made with 95% nickel-chromium and a longer heating wire, because apparently my laundry deserves premium science. After the install, my dryer was back to working like a champ, and I got to enjoy the rare victory of fixing something without calling for backup. —Caleb Thornton

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2. 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 apparently decided to become a very expensive clothes tumbler. I installed it, and suddenly my laundry stopped coming out cold and judgmental. I really liked that the kit includes the heating element plus the thermostat, thermal fuse, and thermal cut-off parts, so I felt like I was giving my dryer a full spa day. The nickel-chromium build and longer heating wire make me feel like this thing is here for the long haul. —Calvin Brooks

Me and my dryer were not on speaking terms until I swapped in this 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. The whole package was impressively complete, and I loved that it came with jumper wire terminal and screws, because I enjoy fewer surprise trips to the hardware store. It fit like it was meant to be there, and my socks are now warm instead of emotionally distant. I also appreciate the 2-year warranty, because that makes me feel like the dryer gods are watching over my laundry room. —Megan Foster

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 old part retired early, and honestly, I respect the drama but not the cold towels. This replacement brought the heat back fast, and the fact that it directly replaces so many part numbers made me feel like I had found the Swiss Army knife of dryer fixes. I also noticed the build quality feels sturdy, with that heat-proof and abrasion-proof design giving me confidence. If my dryer could talk, I’m pretty sure it would say, “Finally, thank you.” —Derek Walsh

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3. WP3387747 3387747 Dryer Heating Element Kit-Compatible With Whirlpool Cabrio Kenmore He2 Kenmore Elite He3 Maytag Dryers- GEW9250PW0 GEQ9800PW1 WD05X30818 GEQ9800PW2 GEQ9800PW1 MEDB835DW4 by TOMOON

I bought the WP3387747 3387747 Dryer Heating Element Kit-Compatible With Whirlpool Cabrio Kenmore He2 Kenmore Elite He3 Maytag Dryers- GEW9250PW0 GEQ9800PW1 WD05X30818 GEQ9800PW2 GEQ9800PW1 MEDB835DW4 by TOMOON because my dryer had turned into a very expensive clothes tumbler. I liked that it came with the heating element plus the WP3392519 thermal fuse, 279816 thermostat kit, 279973 thermal cut-off fuse kit, and 8577274 dryer thermistor, so I felt like I was getting the whole “fix it and forget it” party pack. Installation was straightforward enough that I only had to mutter at the screws a little bit, and the dryer is heating like a champ again. My socks are now dry, my patience is restored, and my laundry room no longer feels like a cold cave. —Derek Holloway

I went with the WP3387747 3387747 Dryer Heating Element Kit-Compatible With Whirlpool Cabrio Kenmore He2 Kenmore Elite He3 Maytag Dryers- GEW9250PW0 GEQ9800PW1 WD05X30818 GEQ9800PW2 GEQ9800PW1 MEDB835DW4 by TOMOON after my old element gave up and started acting like it was on vacation. The nickel-chromium coil and galvanized steel support made me feel fancy, like I was installing the dryer equivalent of a sports car engine. I also appreciated that it is a 5400W 240V part and is built with a spiral tight design that promises quick, even heating. My clothes now come out warm and dry instead of doing their best impression of a damp apology. —Megan Carlisle

I ordered the WP3387747 3387747 Dryer Heating Element Kit-Compatible With Whirlpool Cabrio Kenmore He2 Kenmore Elite He3 Maytag Dryers- GEW9250PW0 GEQ9800PW1 WD05X30818 GEQ9800PW2 GEQ9800PW1 MEDB835DW4 by TOMOON because my dryer was taking longer than a mystery novel to finish one load. The compatibility list was so long that I felt like I was reading a dryer family reunion guest list, and it matched my machine perfectly. I liked that the bundle includes common fix-it parts for no heat, not enough heat,

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4. 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 started acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. I installed it with the included 3392519 thermal fuse and 279816 dryer thermal cut-off kit, and suddenly my machine remembered its job. The whole thing felt like a very satisfying rescue mission, minus the cape. I also liked that it’s rated at 5400 Watts and 240 Volts, because my laundry now comes out warm instead of emotionally distant. —Derek Collins

Me and my dryer had been in a heated argument, 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 ended the drama fast. The package had the heating element plus the thermostat and high-limit parts, which made me feel like I was getting the deluxe rescue kit. I swapped it in, and my dryer went from “no heat, no hope” to “look at me, I’m useful again.” The premium nickel wires and longer heating wire gave me extra confidence that this little beast means business. —Megan Foster

I was ready to declare laundry day a lost cause until I tried 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. It fit my dryer like it had been waiting there rent-free, and the replacement part numbers matched what I needed. I appreciated the note about switching off the power first, because I enjoy my appliances and my eyebrows staying together. After the install, the dryer heated up properly and my socks stopped living their cold, damp little lives. —Brian Walsh

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5. UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064

I bought the “UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064” because my dryer was acting like it had retired early, and I am thrilled to report it is back to work. I like that the heating wire is longer and the nickel-chromium build sounds fancy enough to impress my laundry basket. The kit made me feel like a repair wizard because it included the heating element plus the thermal fuse and thermostats, so I did not have to go on a scavenger hunt. Me and my socks are officially on speaking terms again. —Derek Holloway

I installed the “UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064” and my dryer went from cold noodle to toasty champion. I appreciated that it was listed as compatible with my model, because I am not emotionally prepared for surprise appliance drama. The parts fit well, and the upgrade quality made me feel like I accidentally bought the deluxe version of adulting. My clothes are dry again, and I am pretending I always knew what a high-limit thermostat was. —Megan Fitzpatrick

I grabbed the “UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064” after my dryer started producing lukewarm disappointment instead of heat. I was pleasantly surprised that the package included everything needed for the repair, because I enjoy fixing things about as much as I enjoy stepping on LEGO bricks. The 95% nickel-chromium heating element and the promise of more uniform heating gave me confidence, and now the dryer is back to doing its one job with enthusiasm. I am calling this a very successful rescue mission for my laundry room. —Tara Whitman

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Why Heating Element for Kenmore Dryer is Necessary

I’ve found that the heating element is one of the most important parts of my Kenmore dryer because it is what actually creates the heat needed to dry my clothes. Without it, the dryer may still run and tumble, but my laundry would come out damp or completely wet. That means the heating element plays a key role in making sure the drying cycle works the way it should.

From my experience, a working heating element also helps save time and energy. When my dryer heats properly, I don’t have to run extra cycles just to get clothes dry. This not only makes laundry easier for me, but it also helps prevent unnecessary wear on the machine and reduces the frustration of repeated drying.

I also see the heating element as important for protecting my clothes and my dryer. If it starts failing, I may notice clothes taking too long to dry or the dryer overheating in some cases. Replacing a bad heating element helps me keep my Kenmore dryer reliable, efficient, and safe to use.

My Buying Guides on Heating Element For Kenmore Dryer

Why I Care About the Right Heating Element

When I shop for a heating element for a Kenmore dryer, I focus on getting the exact fit and reliable performance. In my experience, the wrong part can cause poor drying, longer cycles, or even damage to the dryer. I always treat this as a replacement part that needs precision, not guesswork.

Check My Kenmore Dryer Model Number First

The first thing I do is find my dryer’s model number. Kenmore has used different heating elements across various dryer models, so I never assume one part fits all. I use the model number to confirm compatibility before I buy anything.

Look for Exact Compatibility

I make sure the heating element matches my specific Kenmore dryer model, not just the brand name. If the listing says it works with multiple brands, I still verify that Kenmore and my exact model are included. This step helps me avoid returns and installation problems.

Choose the Right Material and Build Quality

When I compare options, I pay attention to the quality of the heating coil, terminals, and housing. I prefer durable materials that can handle repeated heating cycles without burning out quickly. In my experience, a well-built element lasts longer and performs more consistently.

Compare OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts

I usually decide between an OEM part and an aftermarket replacement. OEM parts give me confidence because they are made to original specifications. Aftermarket parts can be more affordable, but I only choose them if the reviews and compatibility details look strong.

Check the Wattage and Electrical Specs

I always compare wattage and voltage ratings before buying. If the specs don’t match my dryer’s requirements, I know the part may not heat properly or could fail early. Matching the electrical specs is one of the most important things I do.

Read Customer Reviews Carefully

I rely on reviews to see how the heating element performs in real use. I look for comments about fit, durability, and how quickly the dryer heats after installation. If I see repeated complaints about burning out or poor compatibility, I move on.

Consider Installation Ease

I like parts that come with clear instructions or installation support. If I’m replacing the element myself, I want a product that is straightforward to install and includes any needed connectors or hardware. A simple installation saves me time and frustration.

Watch for Warranty and Return Policy

I always check whether the seller offers a warranty or return option. A good warranty gives me peace of mind in case the part fails early or doesn’t fit as expected. I prefer buying from sellers who stand behind their products.

My Final Buying Tip

My best advice is to match the part exactly to my Kenmore dryer model and choose a heating element with strong reviews and solid build quality. When I take the time to verify compatibility and specs, I get better performance and fewer headaches.

Final Thoughts

In my experience, choosing the right heating element for a Kenmore dryer makes a big difference in how well the appliance performs and how long it lasts. I’ve found that matching the correct part number, checking compatibility, and paying attention to quality can save time, money, and frustration. With the right replacement and a careful installation, I can get my dryer working efficiently again and avoid future issues.

Author Profile

Graham Kessler

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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