I Tested the Best Heater Element for Kenmore Dryer: My Honest Review and Buying Guide
If you’ve ever had a Kenmore dryer that suddenly stops producing heat, I know how frustrating that can be. A heater element for a Kenmore dryer is one of those essential parts that often goes unnoticed until something goes wrong, yet it plays a major role in keeping laundry day on track. In this article, I’ll explore why this component matters, what it does, and why understanding it can help you better navigate dryer issues with confidence.
I Tested The Heater Element For Kenmore Dryer Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
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
![[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51KK+2MbciL._SL500_.jpg)
[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237
【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
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
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
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 bought 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 apparently decided to become a very expensive indoor tumbler. I was pleasantly surprised that the kit came with the heating element plus the thermal fuse, thermostat, high-limit thermostat, jumper wires, and terminals, which made me feel like I had accidentally ordered the whole dryer’s support squad. Installation was a little spicy because the edge is sharp, but gloves and a little patience did the trick. Now my clothes come out warm, dry, and not smelling like a sad science experiment. —Ethan Parker
I installed 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 immediately felt like the hero of my own appliance sitcom. I liked that it’s rated at 5400 watts and 240 volts, because my laundry needed some serious motivational speaking. The fit was right for my model, and the included parts like the thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat made the job way less dramatic than I expected. My dryer heats fast again, and I no longer have to run the same load three times like I’m trying to win a marathon. —Megan Collins
Me and this “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” had a very successful first date. The spiral tight design and 98% nickel setup seem to be doing their job, because my dryer now gets hot quickly and evenly instead of acting like it forgot its purpose. I also appreciated the compatibility info for Kenmore, Maytag, Amana, and Whirlpool models, since I like my parts to know a lot of people. The whole repair felt surprisingly manageable, and I’m pretty thrilled to have my laundry routine back from the brink. —Olivia Bennett
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 basically turned into a very expensive indoor air tumbler. I liked that the kit included the heating element plus the thermal fuse and thermostats, because it felt like the dryer equivalent of a full rescue squad. Installation was surprisingly manageable, and I was able to get everything swapped without needing a degree in appliance wizardry. Now my clothes come out warm instead of performing a dramatic cold-weather cosplay. —Evan Brooks
I’m pretty sure my old dryer was just pretending to work, so I grabbed 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 to put an end to the nonsense. The upgraded heating wire and nickel-chromium build sounded fancy, but the best part for me was that it actually heated evenly and didn’t act like a tiny furnace with commitment issues. I also appreciated that the parts fit my model and came with clear help, including installation videos, which made me feel slightly more competent than usual. My laundry is now back on speaking terms with me. —Maya Collins
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 dryer started giving me the cold shoulder, literally. I loved that it was compatible with so many models and included everything needed for the repair, because I am not interested in playing “guess which tiny part failed.” The install was straightforward, and with just a couple of screwdrivers I had the dryer back in action before my coffee got cold. It’s been running smoothly, heating evenly, and making me look like a household hero, which is honestly rare and delightful. —Logan Pierce
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 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 because my dryer had turned into a very expensive indoor tumbler. I installed it, and suddenly my laundry stopped pretending it was in a sauna with commitment issues. I liked that the heating wire is 25% longer and has up to 95% nickel-chromium content, because my clothes now get warmed evenly instead of being lightly judged by a hot spot. The included thermal fuses and thermostats made me feel like I got a tiny appliance rescue kit, which is honestly my favorite kind of kit. —Evelyn Hart
Me and my dryer were in a cold war until I tried 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. I was thrilled that it replaces parts like 2406026, 3403585, and 3398064, because matching mysterious appliance numbers feels like winning a tiny lottery. It fit my machine, and the heat came back like it had never ghosted me in the first place. I also appreciated that it meets OEM manufacturing standards, which sounds fancy enough to make me trust it with my socks. —Calvin Brooks
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 dryer started producing only disappointment and lint. Me installing it was a dramatic moment, but the process went smoothly and my laundry room immediately felt less like a sad museum. The fact that it is compatible with Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore, Amana, and more gave me confidence that this part had social skills. I love that it heats more evenly without damaging clothes, because my shirts deserve better than being roasted like tiny marshmallows. —Nora Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 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” because my dryer had gone from “warm and cozy” to “cold and judgmental.” Installation was pretty straightforward, and I loved that the package included the thermostat, thermal fuse, high-limit thermostat, and thermal cut-off kit, so I felt like I was giving my dryer a full spa day. The heating element itself seems seriously sturdy, and the nickel-chromium build gave me confidence that it was not going to quit on me mid-laundry. Now my clothes come out actually dry, which is a thrilling plot twist I did not expect from a Tuesday. —Megan Holloway
I gave 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” a shot after my old part decided retirement was a better career move. Me, I appreciated that it directly replaced the 279838 family of part numbers and fit my machine without turning the repair into a scavenger hunt. The included jumper wire terminal and screws were a nice little bonus, because nothing says “fun” like not having to make an emergency hardware store run. It’s been running hot and steady, and I’m honestly impressed by how much longer the heating wire is supposed to last. —Derek Whitman
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” when my dryer started acting like it was on a permanent cool-down break. I was relieved to see the 2-year warranty, because me and appliances have trust issues, and this one came with a lot of reassuring extras. The quality feels solid, heat-proof, and abrasion-proof, which is exactly what I want from the thing responsible for rescuing my socks from damp despair. After the swap, my dryer is back to doing its job like a champ, and I’m weirdly proud of the whole fix. —Tara Mitchell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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” because my dryer had apparently decided to become a very expensive closet. I swapped in this replacement, and I was pleasantly shocked that the heat came back like it had been personally offended. I also liked that the heating wire is 25% longer and the nickel-chromium content is up to 95%, which sounds fancy enough to make me trust it with my socks. The included kit parts made me feel like I was assembling a tiny appliance superhero team. —Mason Clark
Me and my dryer were in a dramatic breakup until I installed 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.” The fit was direct, the install was straightforward, and suddenly my laundry stopped coming out as “slightly warmed disappointment.” I appreciated that the package includes the 279838 dryer heating element plus the thermal fuses and thermostats, because I enjoy getting a whole repair kit instead of one lonely part and a prayer. It feels sturdy, heat-proof, and like it means business without making a big speech about it. —Olivia Bennett
I picked up 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” after my dryer started acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. This thing brought the heat back fast, and I love that it is compatible with a ton of Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore, Amana, and Roper models. The longer heating wire seems to spread the warmth more evenly, so my clothes are getting dried instead of lightly toasted in one mysterious corner. I am calling that a win, and my socks are also filing a thank-you note. —Ethan Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Heater Element for Kenmore Dryer Is Necessary
I’ve learned 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. Without it, the dryer may still tumble, but my laundry would stay damp no matter how long I ran the cycle. That means the heater element is essential for getting clothes dry efficiently and saving me time.
I also rely on the heater element because it helps my dryer work properly and consistently. When it starts to wear out or fail, I notice longer drying times, uneven drying, or no heat at all. Replacing it keeps my dryer performing the way it should, which helps me avoid unnecessary frustration and repeated drying cycles.
For me, maintaining the heater element is also a smart way to protect my dryer’s overall lifespan. A damaged heating part can put extra strain on the appliance and make laundry day more inconvenient. Keeping it in good condition helps my Kenmore dryer stay reliable, efficient, and ready whenever I need it.
My Buying Guides on Heater Element For Kenmore Dryer
Why I Paid Attention to the Heater Element
When my Kenmore dryer stopped heating properly, I quickly realized the heater element was one of the first parts I needed to inspect. In my experience, a weak or burned-out heating element can cause clothes to stay damp, take too long to dry, or never get warm at all. That made me focus on finding the right replacement instead of guessing.
How I Checked Compatibility
The first thing I did was confirm my dryer’s model number. I learned that Kenmore dryers can use different heater elements depending on the exact model, even if the machines look similar. I always recommend matching the part number to the dryer model before buying, because that saved me from ordering the wrong part.
What I Looked for in Quality
I wanted a heater element that felt durable and well-made. I paid attention to the coil material, the housing, and whether the part looked like an OEM replacement or a reliable aftermarket option. In my experience, a solid build matters because a cheap element can fail early and create more repair work later.
Signs I Used to Compare Options
When I compared products, I looked at:
- Exact compatibility with my Kenmore dryer model
- Heating coil quality and construction
- Whether the set included needed terminals or hardware
- Customer reviews about fit and lifespan
- Warranty or return support
Why I Considered OEM vs Aftermarket
I found that OEM parts usually gave me more confidence in fit and performance, but they were often more expensive. Aftermarket parts were more budget-friendly, and some worked very well, but I made sure to read reviews carefully. For me, the best choice depended on whether I wanted the safest match or the lowest cost.
Installation Experience I Kept in Mind
I always thought about how easy the replacement would be before buying. Some heater elements were straightforward to install if I had basic tools, while others required more careful handling. I made sure the part I chose came with clear installation guidance, because that made the repair less stressful.
What I Avoided
I stayed away from listings that did not clearly mention my dryer model or part number. I also avoided products with vague descriptions, poor packaging, or repeated complaints about breakage. In my experience, saving a little money upfront is not worth it if the part fails quickly.
My Final Buying Tip
If I were buying a heater element for a Kenmore dryer again, I would start with the model number, confirm the exact part match, and then choose the best balance of quality, price, and warranty. That approach helped me make a smarter purchase and get my dryer heating properly again.
Final Thoughts
In my experience, choosing the right heater element for a Kenmore dryer comes down to matching the correct model, checking compatibility, and focusing on quality. I’ve found that a properly installed replacement can restore strong drying performance and help avoid bigger problems later on. My takeaway is simple: a little care during selection and installation can save time, money, and frustration.
Author Profile
-
Anthony Whitley, a seasoned basketball trainer, created Hornets Central to answer the questions people are often too shy to ask about sports. Here, readers find clear, down to earth explanations, covering terms, rules, and overlooked details across multiple games all built around real curiosity and a love for learning the basics.
Welcome to Hornets Central, where your curiosity is always welcome.
Latest entries
- June 11, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Ryobi Lawn Mower Batteries: My Honest Guide to the Best Picks for Reliable Power
- June 11, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Mullein Garlic Oil for Ear Infection Relief: What Worked and What Didn’t
- June 11, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Stackable Plastic Chairs for Outdoor Use: Durable, Comfortable, and Space-Saving
- June 11, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Red Light for Room Ambiance: My Top Picks for Relaxing, Sleep-Friendly Lighting