Exclusive: Step-By-Step Guide To Replacing A Whirlpool Electric Dryer Heating Element

When your Whirlpool electric dryer stops heating, it’s likely that the heating element has burned out. Replacing the heating element is a relatively simple repair that you can do yourself with a few basic tools. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps on how to replace a Whirlpool electric dryer heating element.

Gathering the Necessary Tools and Materials

Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:

• Screwdriver
• Socket wrench
• Multimeter
• New heating element
• Wire nuts
• Electrical tape

Safety Precautions

Before starting any electrical work, it’s important to take the following safety precautions:

• Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
• Turn off the gas supply to the dryer (if applicable).
• Allow the dryer to cool completely before working on it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Remove the Back Panel

• Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the back panel in place.
• Carefully lift the back panel off the dryer and set it aside.

2. Locate the Heating Element

• The heating element is located at the bottom of the dryer cabinet.
• It’s a large, round metal component with two terminals.

3. Disconnect the Wires

• Use a socket wrench to disconnect the two wires from the heating element terminals.
• Label the wires with tape so you know which one goes where when you reconnect them.

4. Remove the Heating Element

• Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the heating element in place.
• Carefully lift the heating element out of the dryer cabinet.

5. Inspect the Heating Element

• Inspect the heating element for any visible damage, such as burns or breaks.
• If the heating element is damaged, it will need to be replaced.

6. Install the New Heating Element

• Place the new heating element into the dryer cabinet.
• Secure it with the screws.

7. Reconnect the Wires

• Reconnect the two wires to the heating element terminals.
• Use wire nuts to secure the connections.
• Wrap electrical tape around the wire nuts for added protection.

8. Replace the Back Panel

• Carefully lift the back panel back onto the dryer.
• Secure it with the screws.

9. Test the Dryer

• Plug the dryer back into the power outlet.
• Turn on the dryer and select a heating cycle.
• The dryer should now heat up properly.

Troubleshooting

If the dryer still doesn’t heat up after replacing the heating element, there may be another issue. Here are a few things to check:

• Thermal fuse: The thermal fuse is a safety device that trips if the dryer overheats. If the thermal fuse has tripped, it will need to be replaced.
• Thermostat: The thermostat controls the temperature of the dryer. If the thermostat is faulty, the dryer may not heat up properly.
• Timer: The timer controls the length of the drying cycle. If the timer is faulty, the dryer may not heat up for the entire cycle.

What You Need to Know

1. How long does it take to replace a Whirlpool electric dryer heating element?

• It should take about 30-60 minutes to replace the heating element.

2. How much does it cost to replace a Whirlpool electric dryer heating element?

• The cost of a new heating element is typically around $30-$50.

3. Can I replace the heating element myself?

• Yes, replacing the heating element is a relatively simple repair that you can do yourself with a few basic tools.

4. What are the signs that the heating element needs to be replaced?

• The dryer doesn’t heat up properly.
• The dryer takes longer than usual to dry clothes.
• The dryer makes a burning smell.

5. How often should the heating element be replaced?

• The heating element should be replaced every 5-7 years. However, it may need to be replaced more often if the dryer is used frequently or if it is located in a humid environment.