Skip to content 
What is a Dryer Heating Element and How Does It Work?
A heating element for a dryer is a critical electrical component responsible for generating the heat necessary to dry clothes efficiently. It operates by converting electrical energy into heat through a coiled wire, made from a nickel-chromium alloy, which heats up when an electric current passes through it. This heat is then transferred to the air inside the dryer drum, allowing it to evaporate moisture.
On average, a dryer heating element can last between 5 to 15 years, depending on factors such as usage frequency, maintenance practices, and the overall condition of the dryer. However, the actual lifespan can be influenced by factors such as usage frequency, quality of the element, regular maintenance, overheating, voltage fluctuations, and physical damage.
Why does the heating element for the dryer get damaged?
The damage to the clothes dryer heating element can stem from a variety of causes, which are detailed below:
| Factors | Condition |
| Excessive Use and Prolonged Operation | Continuous and heavy use can lead to accelerated wear and tear, reducing the lifespan of the heating element. |
| Quality of Elements and Appliances | Poor quality heating elements, especially those in lower-quality appliances, tend to have a shorter lifespan. |
| Lack of Regular Maintenance | Neglecting routine maintenance, such as cleaning the lint filter and vents, can put unnecessary strain on the heating element. |
| Overheating | Malfunctioning thermostats or temperature controls can cause overheating, which can significantly damage the heating element and shorten its life. |
| Voltage Fluctuations and Power Surges | Sudden changes in voltage or power surges can harm the heating element |
| Mineral Buildup | In areas with hard water, mineral deposits can accumulate on the heating element, reducing its efficiency and potentially shortening its lifespan. |
| Accidental Damage or Misuse | The heating element can also fail due to accidental damage or improper use of the dryer. |
Here are some measures to prevent dryer element damage.
- Regular Cleaning: Maintain regular cleaning of your dryer, especially the lint filter and vent, to prevent dust and lint accumulation.
- Check the Ventilation System: Ensure your dryer’s exhaust pipe is clear and unobstructed, as any blockages can cause excessive internal temperatures .
- Avoid Overuse: Do not use your dryer continuously for extended periods to prevent the heating element from overheating due to constant heating.
- Inspect Electrical Connections: Make sure the electrical connections to the heating element are secure and undamaged; loose or faulty connections can affect heating performance.
- Check for Wear and Damage: Regularly inspect the heating element for signs of wear or damage, such as frayed wires or broken coils, and replace any damaged heating elements promptly.
- Lubricate Moving Parts: If your dryer has moving parts related to the heating element, such as a fan or motor, ensure they are lubricated regularly for smooth operation.
Signs of Dryer Heating Element Failure:
If your dryer’s heating element is on the fritz, you might notice clothes that don’t dry, longer drying times, or the machine getting too hot. Maybe it’s making weird noises or just not starting at all. If you smell something burning or see smoke, that’s a red flag. Time to call in a pro to fix it up.
To test a dryer’s heating element, follow these steps:
1.Safety Warning:Before performing any electrical testing or repairs, ensure that the dryer is unplugged from the power source to prevent the risk of electric shock.
2.Check the Circuit Breaker:Confirm that the circuit breaker has not tripped. If it has, reset the breaker and check if the dryer resumes working.
3.Voltage Test:Use a multimeter to measure the voltage at the dryer’s power outlet to ensure proper power supply. For a 240-volt dryer, check for 120 volts at each of the two separate wire terminals with respect to the neutral and ground buses.
4.Ohm Meter Test:Unplug the dryer and use the lowest ohm setting on a multimeter to test the two wire terminals of the heating element.Normally, the reading should be between a few ohms to several tens of ohms. If the reading is very high (e.g., over 100,000 ohms), it indicates that the heating element may be damaged.
5.Visual Inspection:Check for any obvious breaks or other signs of damage to the heating element.
6.Check the Venting System:Ensure that the venting is unobstructed, not crushed, and free of water accumulation, as a blocked venting system can cause the heating element to overheat.
7.Check Other Electrical Components:Test other electrical components that may affect the operation of the heating element, such as temperature sensors, relays, and control boards.
8.Test the Relay:If the dryer has a relay controlling the heating element, use a multimeter to test the relay’s coil and contacts to ensure it is functioning properly.
9.Check the Thermal Fuse:Inspect the thermal fuse to see if it has blown, which can prevent the heating element from overheating and getting damaged.
10.Reassemble and Test:If you have replaced the heating element or other components, reassemble the dryer and plug it back in to test if it works properly.
How to buy dryer heating elements?
ELEKHEAT: Leading the Way in High-Quality Heating Solutions
Founded in 2000, ELEKHEAT has over 20 years of experience in manufacturing premium electric heating products for a wide range of applications. Our 48,000-square-meter factory, equipped with cutting-edge production technologies, ensures the highest quality for every product. We offer a comprehensive selection of ELEKHEAT heaters, including heating elements for dryers, with solutions for residential, commercial, and industrial needs. Our commitment to innovation and quality guarantees that our products are not only safe and eco-friendly but also cost-effective. Additionally, we provide custom heating elements tailored to meet your specific requirements, ensuring the best fit for your needs. Trust ELEKHEAT for reliable, efficient, and affordable heating solutions.
Heating element for the dryer DIY replacement and installation guide:
ELEKHEAT, encourages capable customers to consider DIY replacement of the heating element for their dryers, a method that can significantly reduce costs. On average, replacing a dryer heating element costs $230, but DIY can greatly cut this expense, especially when you purchase parts directly from us. For electric and gas dryers, replacement costs typically range from $90 to $250 and $100 to $350, respectively. By choosing the DIY route, customers can save on labor costs, which usually range from $60 to $150 per hour. Plus, buying from ELEKHEAT cuts out the middleman, offering you the necessary parts at a more economical price.
How to Replace the Heating Element for a Dryer
1. Disconnect Power
Unplug the dryer to ensure safety before starting the repair process.
2. Remove Back Panel and Exhaust Hose
Detach the exhaust hose and unscrew the back panel to access the heating element.
3. Locate the Heating Element
Find the long gray housing on the right side, which contains the dryer element.
4. Disconnect Sensors and Fuse
Unscrew the sensors at the top and bottom, and check for a heating fuse that might also be faulty.
5. Test the Heating Element
Use a multimeter to check continuity. If there’s no continuity, the heating element for the dryer needs replacement.
6. Remove the Heating Element
Lift the casing and remove the screw holding the heating element in place. Carefully pull out the element and inspect it for damage.
7. Install the New Element
Place the new dryer element in the casing, secure it with the screw, and reconnect the sensors and fuse.
8. Reassemble the Dryer
Reattach the back panel and exhaust hose, ensuring all parts are securely fastened.
9. Test the Dryer
Plug the dryer back in and run a cycle to ensure the new heating element is working properly.
This simplified guide helps you replace the clothes dryer heating element efficiently and safely.
If you’re unsure whether to replace your heating element for the dryer, check this link for guidance. Below are user reviews on the dryer element DIY replacement, sharing their experiences on whether a replacement was needed.
