PRO Courses Hot Guides Tech Help Pro Expert Videos About wikiHow Pro Upgrade
QUIZZES All Quizzes Hot Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Trivia Quizzes Taylor Swift Quizzes
EDIT Edit this Article
EXPLORE Tech Help ProAbout UsRandom ArticleQuizzes Request a New ArticleCommunity DashboardTrendingForums Arts and EntertainmentArtworkBooksMoviesComputers and ElectronicsComputersPhone SkillsTechnology HacksHealthMen's HealthMental HealthWomen's HealthRelationshipsDatingLoveRelationship Issues Hobbies and CraftsCraftsDrawingGamesEducation & CommunicationCommunication SkillsPersonal DevelopmentStudyingPersonal Care and StyleFashionHair CarePersonal Hygiene Quizzes Love Quizzes Personality Quizzes Fun Games ForumsArts and EntertainmentFinance and BusinessHome and Garden Relationship QuizzesCars & Other VehiclesFood and EntertainingPersonal Care and Style Sports and FitnessComputers and ElectronicsHealthPets and Animals TravelEducation & CommunicationHobbies and CraftsPhilosophy and Religion Work WorldFamily LifeHolidays and TraditionsRelationships Youth
LOG IN
Log in
Social login does not work in incognito and private browsers. Please log in with your username or email to continue. FacebookGooglewikiHow Account No account yet? Create an account
RANDOM
Home
Random
Browse Articles
TrendingNew
Quizzes & Games
All QuizzesHot
Love Quizzes
Personality Quizzes
Fun Games
Dating Simulator
Learn Something New
Forums
Courses
Happiness Hub
Explore More
Support wikiHow
About wikiHow
Log in / Sign up
Terms of Use wikiHow is where trusted research and expert knowledge come together. Learn why people trust wikiHow
Categories
Home and Garden
Home Appliances
Washing Machines and Dryers
How to Change the Heating Element in a Dryer Download ArticleExplore this Article Steps Steps Other Sections Questions & Answers Video Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Co-authored by Homer Flores
Last Updated: May 2, 2024 References
Download Article X
This article was co-authored by Homer Flores. Homer Flores is an Appliance Repair Specialist and Training Manager at PreFix, a home maintenance company out of Austin, Texas. With over 15 years of experience, Homer specializes in home improvement, remodeling, and construction. Homer’s dedication to the PreFix mission of providing hassle-free one-stop-shop service for home care, in addition to their completion of the Capital Factory and Techstars Accelerators, has contributed to their growth of service to over 50 zip codes throughout the greater Austin area. This article has been viewed 338,837 times.
Looking to change the heating element in your dryer? You've come to the right place! Below, you'll find a step-by-step run-through of the process. Scroll down for more.
Steps
Download Article
1 Unplug the dryer. Make sure there's no power going to your dryer while you're working.[1]X Expert Source Homer FloresAppliance Repair SpecialistExpert Interview
2 Take off dryer exhaust hose and remove the back panel.[2]XResearch source Advertisement
3 Look at the back of the dryer. On the right side, you'll see a long metal (probably gray) housing. The Element is inside.[3]XResearch source
4 Unscrew the black sensor on top, and unscrew the black sensor on the bottom.[4]XResearch source
5 Unhook the two wires just below the bottom sensor. (These two sensors could be your problem (in 50% of the cases, it is). Also, there is a heating fuse to your left, under the larger casing on the left. It is about an inch long, and has two wires attached. This can also be your problem. One screw holds it in. If in doubt, take all these to the appliance store, and they'll test them with a voltmeter.)
Test the heating element with a multimeter by setting it to read continuity. Touch the 2 leads of the heating element with the multimeter. If there isn't any continuity, then you need to replace the element.[5]X Expert Source Homer FloresAppliance Repair SpecialistExpert Interview
6 Gently lift up on the whole gray casing. It should easily come loose. If not, lift a little harder and pull the bottom toward you. There may be a screw and small bracket at the top that needs to be removed. There are some hooks on the bottom that will come loose.
7 Turn it upside down; you'll see one screw holding the element in. Take out the screw, and carefully pull out the element, which is a coil that heats up, on some metal housing. Examine the coil for breaks. If you have a voltmeter, test the element. Also test the Sensors. This will tell you what's broken.
8 Install the new element in the reverse of the above. Replace the element, replace all the sensors and the back panel, as well as the exhaust hose. When done, try it out![6]XResearch source
Advertisement
Community Q&A
Search Add New Question
Question Why won't my dryer turn on after I've replaced the heating element? Community Answer There can be quite a few reasons for this. Electric parts may have gotten damaged; a fuse may need a replacement; the protection switch inside the machine may have been triggered; a wall plug fuse may be off...Google for a manual or call your plumber. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 12 Helpful 17
Question I've replaced my heat element coil, but now my fuse keeps blowing. What should I do? Community Answer Check to see if you put the heat element coil in properly and that the wires are connected. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 7 Helpful 10
Question Can I do this if it is a gas dryer? Community Answer That is a very dangerous task to do on your own. It would be best to Have a professional appliance repair technician do it for you. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 20 Helpful 7
See more answers Ask a Question 200 characters left Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered. Submit Advertisement
Video
Tips
Submit a Tip All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published Name Please provide your name and last initial Submit Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
Warnings
Unplug the dryer until it's finished. Thanks Helpful 27 Not Helpful 20
Advertisement
You Might Also Like
How toTest the Heating Element in a DryerHow to Change the Heating Element in an Electric OvenHow to Troubleshoot a GE Dryer That Won't HeatHow to Troubleshoot a Kenmore Dryer That Won't HeatHow to Troubleshoot an Amana Dryer That Won't HeatHow toCheck a Thermostat in a DryerHow to Troubleshoot a Dryer That Won't Heat: 9 DIY FixesWhy Your Whirlpool Dryer Won’t Get Hot (And How to Fix It)How toTest a Hot Water Heater ElementHow toTest an Oven ElementHow toRepair a DryerHow toTest a Heating ElementWhy Your Dryer Won't Spin and How to Fix ItHow toTroubleshoot a Dryer That Smells Like It Is Burning Advertisement
References
↑ Homer Flores. Appliance Repair Specialist. Expert Interview
Co-authored by: Homer Flores Appliance Repair Specialist This article was co-authored by Homer Flores. Homer Flores is an Appliance Repair Specialist and Training Manager at PreFix, a home maintenance company out of Austin, Texas. With over 15 years of experience, Homer specializes in home improvement, remodeling, and construction. Homer’s dedication to the PreFix mission of providing hassle-free one-stop-shop service for home care, in addition to their completion of the Capital Factory and Techstars Accelerators, has contributed to their growth of service to over 50 zip codes throughout the greater Austin area. This article has been viewed 338,837 times. 4 votes - 75% Co-authors: 8Updated: May 2, 2024 Views: 338,837 Categories: Washing Machines and Dryers In other languages Italian Russian
Print
Send fan mail to authors
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 338,837 times.
Reader Success Stories
Jack Owen
Oct 12, 2016
"Great instructions. They were accurate and complete. They would have been better if they had explained how to test the elements, i.e. continuity and resistance."..." more
Share your story
Did this article help you?
Yes No Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy. Co-authored by: Homer Flores Appliance Repair Specialist 4 votes - 75% Click a star to vote Co-authors: 8Updated: May 2, 2024 Views: 338,837
Jack Owen
Oct 12, 2016
"Great instructions. They were accurate and complete. They would have been better if they had explained how to test the elements, i.e. continuity and resistance."..." more Share yours!
Quizzes & Games
Am I Smart QuizTake QuizWhat’s The Perfect Hair Care Routine For MeTake QuizWhat Chakra Do I Need to Balance QuizTake QuizWhat Element Am I QuizTake QuizThe Impossible QuizTake QuizWhat Kind of Reality Check Do I Need QuizTake Quiz
You Might Also Like
How toTest the Heating Element in a DryerHow to Change the Heating Element in an Electric OvenHow to Troubleshoot a GE Dryer That Won't HeatHow to Troubleshoot a Kenmore Dryer That Won't Heat
Featured Articles
How toDress for WinterNicknames for Your Girlfriend: 125+ Funny, Sweet & Clever IdeasHow to Give Someone a Great GiftWhat Would My Life At Camp Half-Blood Be Like QuizThe Best Hairstyles for Guys with Big Foreheads22 Best Ideas for Scary (and Funny) Pranks
Trending Articles
How Much Do I Mog QuizHow Weird Am I QuizCan We Guess How Tall You Are QuizAm I Annoying QuizLet Us Rate You 1-10: Attractiveness Scale QuizWhat Would My Life At Camp Half-Blood Be Like Quiz
Featured Articles
How to Text Yourself: Fake Text Messages, Reminders, and MoreAccurate Omegaverse Quiz: 100% GuaranteeThe Hardest & Most Difficult Riddles for AdultsHow to Be More Spontaneous and Enjoy Life to the FullestHow toImprove Your PersonalitySigns You Were Meant For Greatness (Quiz)
Featured Articles
210+ Shower Thoughts: Funny, Deep, Weird & Mind-BlowingHow to Meet Gay People Without a Dating AppCute, Thoughtful & Romantic Messages to Wish Her a Good Day at WorkWhat Movie Should I Stream QuizWhat Does the Term "Femboy" Mean?40+ Fun & Exciting Group Game Ideas to Play with 20+ People
Watch Articles
How to Marinate Chicken: 4 Recipes and a Step-By-Step GuideHow toClean Shower TileHow toDo Oblique CrunchesSimple Ways to Riffle Shuffle and Bridge Playing CardsHow toMake Black CoffeeHow toPlant a Seed in a Pot
Trending Articles
What's Special About Me QuizHow Many People Actually Find Me Intimidating QuizHow Nonchalant Am I QuizThe World's Hardest Riddles (for Kids & Adults)1, 2, 1, 2, 3, Release ‘Em: All About This Viral TikTok TrendHow Would My Fandom See Me If I Were a Fictional Character Quiz
Quizzes & Games
Can You Pass Our Lie Detector Test?Take QuizWhat Human Emotion Am I QuizTake QuizAre My Hormones Imbalanced QuizTake QuizWhat Tarot Card Am I QuizTake QuizWhat's My Bending Element QuizTake QuizHair Curl Type QuizTake Quiz
Categories
Home and Garden
Home Appliances
Washing Machines and Dryers
wikiHow Newsletter You're all set! Helpful how-tos delivered toyour inbox every week! Sign me up! By signing up you are agreeing to receive emails according to our privacy policy.
Download Article Explore this Article Steps Steps Other Sections Questions & Answers Video Tips and Warnings Related Articles References Co-authored by Homer Flores 
Advertisement 
Co-authored by: Homer Flores Appliance Repair Specialist This article was co-authored by Homer Flores. Homer Flores is an Appliance Repair Specialist and Training Manager at PreFix, a home maintenance company out of Austin, Texas. With over 15 years of experience, Homer specializes in home improvement, remodeling, and construction. Homer’s dedication to the PreFix mission of providing hassle-free one-stop-shop service for home care, in addition to their completion of the Capital Factory and Techstars Accelerators, has contributed to their growth of service to over 50 zip codes throughout the greater Austin area. This article has been viewed 338,837 times. 4 votes - 75% Co-authors: 8 Updated: May 2, 2024 Views: 338,837 Categories: Washing Machines and Dryers In other languages Italian Russian 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz
Take Quiz 
539 
1 Unplug the dryer. Make sure there's no power going to your dryer while you're working.[1] 
2 Take off dryer exhaust hose and remove the back panel.[2] Advertisement 
3 Look at the back of the dryer. On the right side, you'll see a long metal (probably gray) housing. The Element is inside.[3] 
4 Unscrew the black sensor on top, and unscrew the black sensor on the bottom.[4] 
5 Unhook the two wires just below the bottom sensor. (These two sensors could be your problem (in 50% of the cases, it is). Also, there is a heating fuse to your left, under the larger casing on the left. It is about an inch long, and has two wires attached. This can also be your problem. One screw holds it in. If in doubt, take all these to the appliance store, and they'll test them with a voltmeter.) 
6 Gently lift up on the whole gray casing. It should easily come loose. If not, lift a little harder and pull the bottom toward you. There may be a screw and small bracket at the top that needs to be removed. There are some hooks on the bottom that will come loose. 
7 Turn it upside down; you'll see one screw holding the element in. Take out the screw, and carefully pull out the element, which is a coil that heats up, on some metal housing. Examine the coil for breaks. If you have a voltmeter, test the element. Also test the Sensors. This will tell you what's broken. 
8 Install the new element in the reverse of the above. Replace the element, replace all the sensors and the back panel, as well as the exhaust hose. When done, try it out![6] Advertisement 
Community Answer There can be quite a few reasons for this. Electric parts may have gotten damaged; a fuse may need a replacement; the protection switch inside the machine may have been triggered; a wall plug fuse may be off...Google for a manual or call your plumber. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 12 Helpful 17 
Community Answer Check to see if you put the heat element coil in properly and that the wires are connected. Thanks! We're glad this was helpful. Thank you for your feedback. If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow Yes No Not Helpful 7 Helpful 10 
Advertisement Cookies make wikiHow better. By continuing to use our site, you agree to our cookie policy.