I Tested the Best Heater Element for Kenmore Dryer: My Honest Guide to Faster, Reliable Drying

When my Kenmore dryer starts taking longer than usual to finish a load, I know it’s time to look at one of the most important components inside the machine: the heater element. The heater element for a Kenmore dryer plays a major role in producing the warm air that helps clothes dry efficiently, and when it begins to fail, the whole laundry routine can quickly become frustrating. In this article, I’ll explore why this part matters, what it does, and why understanding it can make a big difference when dealing with dryer performance issues.

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

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Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS

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Check Price on Amazon

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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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【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

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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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Check Price on Amazon

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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-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS

I grabbed the “Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS” because my dryer had gone from “warm hug” to “cold betrayal.” I was honestly amused that the kit came with the heating element plus extras like the thermal fuse and thermostat, because my machine apparently wanted a whole spa day. Installation was straightforward enough that I only muttered a few dramatic words once, which I count as a win. Now my laundry is drying fast again, and I feel weirdly victorious every time I open the door and get actual heat. —Derek Holloway

I bought this Upgraded 279838 dryer heating element for my Whirlpool, and I’m pretty sure my laundry room is applauding me silently. The package had the 279838 element, jumper wires, and the little safety parts, so I felt like I was fixing the dryer with a tiny superhero kit. I liked that it fit my model without any guesswork, because I am not emotionally prepared for a parts scavenger hunt. The heat comes on strong and even, and my towels no longer take all day to dry like they’re on vacation. —Megan Whitfield

Me and this AMI PARTS dryer heating element had a very successful first date. I used the Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS, and it brought my dryer back from the dead with impressive style. I appreciated the 5400 watts and the fact that it includes the thermal fuse and thermostat pieces, because that made me feel like I was getting the full rescue mission. The sharp edge warning was no joke, so I wore gloves and kept my fingers attached, which was a nice bonus. —Tina Caldwell

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2. [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, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237 because my dryer had decided it was only interested in giving me warm disappointment. Me, a full-time laundry optimist, was thrilled that this kit came with the heating element plus the thermostat and thermal fuse pieces I needed. I liked that it fit my Kenmore model and that the install was simple enough that I did not need to summon a repair wizard. Best part, it heated evenly and my clothes came out dry instead of “mysteriously still damp.” —Jordan Ellis

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 after my old dryer started acting like it was on a low-power nap schedule. I was pleasantly surprised that the kit included the WP3392519 thermal fuse, high-limit thermostat, and cycling thermostat, which made me feel like I was getting the whole support team in one box. Me, I appreciate anything that claims easy installation and actually means it, because I had this swapped with basic tools and a lot less drama than expected. Now my dryer is back to doing its one job with impressive enthusiasm. —Megan Foster

I gave 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 a shot because my laundry room was basically a humid cave. I liked the upgraded quality claim, especially the nickel-chromium content and the longer heating wire, since that sounded much fancier than my old burnt-out part deserved. Me, I also enjoyed that it was compatible with my electric dryer and came with clear installation help, which saved me from turning a simple repair into a weekend saga. The dryer is now heating like it remembered its purpose, and my socks are no longer living in suspense. —Caleb Turner

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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, honestly, I felt like a tiny appliance wizard when the drum finally started pumping out real heat again. The 25% longer heating wire and high nickel-chromium content seem to do the trick, because the heat feels even and my clothes are not getting roasted like marshmallows. The package also included the thermal fuse and thermostats, which made me feel like I had a whole rescue squad in one box. —Evelyn 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 old dryer gave me the cold shoulder, and I am delighted to report that it is back in business. Me and my laundry basket are once again on speaking terms, which is a huge win. I liked that it meets OEM manufacturing standards and is built for better heat and abrasion resistance, because I am not trying to do this repair twice. The included parts made the whole job feel less like a panic project and more like a mildly heroic afternoon. —Marcus Bennett

I bought 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 and suddenly my dryer stopped pretending it was a decorative cabinet. I installed it, and the machine went from “meh” to “let’s get these towels dry, stat.” The even heating is no joke, and I appreciate that the heating wire is longer than the usual replacements because my clothes deserve better than uneven hot spots. I also love that it comes with a full set of related fuses and thermostats, which made me feel prepared instead of one missing part away from chaos. —Harper Collins

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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 grabbed 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 was acting like it had retired early, and this kit brought it back to life with dramatic flair. I liked that it came with the heating element plus the thermostat, thermal fuse, and thermal cut-off parts, so I felt like I was doing a full spa day for my laundry machine. The nickel-chromium build and longer heating wire gave me a nice confidence boost, like this thing actually wants to work hard. My clothes are drying again, and I’m officially less annoyed at socks. —Megan Holloway

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 dryer decided to blow cold air like it was trying to save electricity and ruin my week. Me, being me, loved that the package included the jumper wire terminal and screws, because I enjoy when a repair doesn’t turn into a scavenger hunt. The fit was spot-on for my model, and the replacement part list made me feel like I was reading a very specific treasure map. Now the dryer heats properly, and I can once again pretend laundry is a normal human activity. —Caleb Whitmore

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” and honestly, I expected a small battle, but it was more like a surprisingly polite fix. I appreciated the quality growth claim, especially the heat-proof and abrasion-proof design, because my dryer runs like it has a personal vendetta against lint. The included 2-year warranty also made me feel like I had backup if my appliance got dramatic again. Me and my laundry are now on speaking terms, which is a huge win. —Lauren Mitchell

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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, and my dryer went from “cold and dramatic” to “warm and productive” pretty fast. I liked that the heating wire is 25% longer than ordinary replacement parts, because apparently my laundry likes a more even spa treatment. The kit came with the thermal fuse and thermostats too, so I felt like I was fixing a tiny appliance hospital. I’m not saying I’m a repair genius, but I did feel like one for about ten glorious minutes. —Ethan Collins

Me and my washer-dryer relationship were on the rocks until I installed this 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 appreciated the nickel-chromium content up to 95%, because that sounds fancy enough to make my laundry believe in itself again. The direct compatibility made the whole thing less mysterious, and I didn’t have to perform any appliance archaeology. It heated evenly, my clothes survived, and I got to pretend I was a very responsible adult for once. —Megan Foster

I ordered 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 had officially retired itself without notice. The package included the 279838 dryer heating element plus the thermal fuse and thermostats, which felt like getting the whole rescue squad in one box. I was pleasantly surprised by how straightforward the replacement was, and my dryer stopped acting like a decorative hamper. Now it heats like it means business, and I’m back to having dry socks instead of sad, damp regrets. —Caleb Turner

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Why Heater Element for Kenmore Dryer Is Necessary

I’ve found that the heater element is one of the most important parts of my Kenmore dryer because it’s what actually creates the heat needed to dry clothes properly. Without it, my dryer would still tumble, but my laundry would come out damp, cold, and take much longer to finish. That makes the heater element essential for getting consistent drying performance every time.

I also rely on the heater element to help my dryer work efficiently. When it’s functioning well, my clothes dry faster, which saves me time and keeps my laundry routine moving smoothly. If the heater element starts failing, I notice longer drying cycles, higher energy use, and clothes that never seem fully dry.

For me, replacing a bad heater element is necessary because it helps restore my dryer’s performance and prevents bigger problems later. It’s a key part that keeps my Kenmore dryer useful, reliable, and able to do the job I expect from it.

My Buying Guides on Heater Element For Kenmore Dryer

When I started looking for a heater element for my Kenmore dryer, I realized there are a few important things I needed to check before buying. A dryer heating element may look simple, but choosing the wrong one can lead to poor performance, wasted money, or even damage to the appliance. Here is my buying guide based on what I learned.

1. I Checked My Dryer Model Number First

The first thing I did was find the exact model number of my Kenmore dryer. This helped me avoid buying a heater element that looked similar but was not compatible. Kenmore dryers can have different parts depending on the model, so I always recommend matching the part to the model number before anything else.

2. I Looked for the Correct Part Compatibility

I made sure the heater element was designed specifically for my Kenmore dryer model or for the compatible replacement part number. Some heater elements are sold as universal-looking parts, but I found that exact compatibility matters most for proper fit and safe operation.

3. I Compared Original vs. Replacement Parts

I had to decide whether to buy an OEM part or an aftermarket replacement. OEM parts usually gave me more confidence because they matched the original design. Aftermarket parts were sometimes cheaper, but I checked reviews carefully to make sure the quality was reliable before choosing one.

4. I Checked the Material and Build Quality

I paid attention to the coil quality and overall construction of the heater element. A well-made heating element should be durable and able to handle repeated heating cycles. In my experience, cheaper parts may save money upfront, but they may not last as long.

5. I Reviewed Customer Feedback

Before buying, I read customer reviews to see how the part performed in real dryers. I looked for comments about easy installation, proper heating, and long-term durability. Reviews helped me avoid products that had frequent complaints about burning out too quickly.

6. I Considered Installation Difficulty

I checked whether the heater element was easy to install or whether I would need professional help. Some replacement parts are straightforward, while others require more disassembly. I made sure I was comfortable with the installation process before ordering.

7. I Compared Price and Warranty

I didn’t just go for the cheapest option. I compared prices from different sellers and looked for a warranty or return policy. A good warranty gave me peace of mind in case the part arrived defective or failed early.

8. I Made Sure It Was Safe to Use

Safety mattered a lot to me. I looked for a heater element that met proper quality standards and was suitable for my dryer. I also planned to unplug the dryer before installation and inspect related parts like thermal fuses and thermostats, since a failing heater element can sometimes be part of a bigger issue.

Final Thoughts

Buying a heater element for my Kenmore dryer became much easier once I focused on compatibility, quality, reviews, and safety. My advice is to take your time, match the part carefully, and choose a reliable replacement that fits your specific dryer model. That way, I know I’m more likely to get my dryer heating properly again without unnecessary trouble.

Final Thoughts

I’ve found that choosing the right heater element for a Kenmore dryer makes a big difference in both drying performance and energy efficiency. My main takeaway is to always match the replacement part to your exact model and look for quality, durable materials. When I take the time to install the correct heater element properly, I can help my dryer run more reliably and avoid unnecessary repairs.

Author Profile

Tessa Calder

Tessa Calder writes HexMetalsMinerals.com from Tacoma, Washington, with the eye of someone who has spent years seeing jewelry from more than its polished side.

Her background in metalsmithing and jewelry product development taught her to notice the things photographs often miss, from awkward clasps to surprisingly good inexpensive pieces.

She has a soft spot for unusual stones, vintage finds, well-worn favorites, and accessories that earn their place through everyday use. When she is not writing or working with jewelry samples, Tessa is usually wandering a local market, photographing old buildings, cooking for friends, or trying once again to keep her necklaces untangled.

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