Troubleshooting made easy: how to diagnose and replace a broken heating element in your dryer

If your dryer isn’t heating up properly, it could be a sign that the heating element needs to be replaced. Replacing a heating element is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself with a few basic tools. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to remove a heating element from a dryer.

Safety First

Before you begin, it’s important to take some safety precautions. Unplug the dryer from the power outlet and allow it to cool down completely. You should also wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from any sharp edges or electrical components.

Tools You’ll Need

To remove the heating element, you’ll need the following tools:

• Screwdriver
• Nut driver
• Pliers
• Wire strippers
• New heating element

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Remove the Back Panel

Using a screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the back panel of the dryer in place. Once the screws are removed, carefully lift the back panel off the dryer.

2. Locate the Heating Element

The heating element is typically located at the bottom of the dryer, behind the drum. It will be a metal coil with two wires attached to it.

3. Disconnect the Wires

Using a nut driver, loosen the nuts that hold the wires to the heating element. Once the nuts are loose, carefully pull the wires off the heating element.

4. Remove the Heating Element

Using a pair of pliers, carefully remove the heating element from the dryer. Be careful not to damage the heating element or the surrounding components.

5. Install the New Heating Element

Insert the new heating element into the dryer. Make sure that the heating element is properly seated in the housing.

6. Connect the Wires

Attach the wires to the heating element and tighten the nuts using a nut driver. Make sure that the wires are securely connected.

7. Reassemble the Dryer

Replace the back panel on the dryer and tighten the screws. Plug the dryer back into the power outlet and turn it on to test the heating element.

Tips

• If you’re not sure how to remove the heating element, consult your dryer’s user manual.
• Be careful not to damage the heating element or the surrounding components.
• If you don’t feel comfortable replacing the heating element yourself, you can call a qualified appliance repair technician.

Troubleshooting

If you’re having trouble replacing the heating element, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

• Make sure that the dryer is unplugged from the power outlet.
• Check that the wires are securely connected to the heating element.
• Make sure that the heating element is properly seated in the housing.
• If you’re still having trouble, call a qualified appliance repair technician.

The Bottom Line: Replacing a Heating Element

Replacing a heating element is a relatively simple task that you can do yourself with a few basic tools. By following the steps outlined in this blog post, you can safely and easily remove the heating element from your dryer.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the signs of a bad heating element?

• The dryer isn’t heating up properly.
• The dryer takes longer than usual to dry clothes.
• The clothes are coming out of the dryer damp or wet.
• The dryer is making a strange noise.

How much does it cost to replace a heating element?

The cost of replacing a heating element will vary depending on the make and model of your dryer. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $150 for the part and labor.

Can I replace the heating element myself?

Yes, you can replace the heating element yourself with a few basic tools. However, if you’re not comfortable working on electrical appliances, it’s best to call a qualified appliance repair technician.