Warming tips for cozy home heating
Guide

Don’t call a repairman! learn the quick and easy way to remove your dryer heating element

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er,...

What To Know

  • Replacing a dryer heating element is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours.
  • The cost to replace a dryer heating element will vary depending on the make and model of your dryer.

Dryers are an essential part of any modern household. They allow us to quickly and easily dry our clothes, saving us time and energy. However, like all appliances, dryers can occasionally experience problems. One common issue is a faulty heating element. If your dryer is not heating properly, it may be necessary to replace the heating element.

Replacing a dryer heating element is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any accidents.

Safety Precautions

Before you begin, it is important to take some safety precautions:

  • Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
  • Allow the dryer to cool completely.
  • Wear safety glasses and gloves.

Tools and Materials

You will need the following tools and materials:

  • Phillips head screwdriver
  • Nut driver
  • Socket wrench
  • New heating element

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Remove the Back Panel

Using a Phillips head screwdriver, remove the screws that hold the back panel of the dryer in place. Carefully lift the back panel off the dryer.

2. Locate the Heating Element

The heating element is located at the back of the dryer drum. It is a large, metal coil that is surrounded by a metal housing.

3. Disconnect the Wires

Using a nut driver, disconnect the wires that are connected to the heating element. Be careful not to damage the wires.

4. Remove the Heating Element

Using a socket wrench, remove the nuts that hold the heating element in place. Carefully lift the heating element out of the dryer.

5. Install the New Heating Element

Place the new heating element into the dryer. Secure it in place with the nuts.

6. Connect the Wires

Reconnect the wires to the heating element. Make sure the wires are securely connected.

7. Replace the Back Panel

Replace the back panel on the dryer. Secure it in place with the screws.

Troubleshooting

If you are having trouble removing the heating element, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

  • Make sure that the dryer is unplugged from the power outlet.
  • Allow the dryer to cool completely before you begin.
  • Use the correct tools for the job.
  • If you are still having trouble, consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

Tips

Here are a few tips to help you remove the heating element safely and easily:

  • Wear safety glasses and gloves.
  • Be careful not to damage the wires when you are disconnecting them.
  • Use a socket wrench to remove the nuts that hold the heating element in place.
  • Replace the heating element with a new one that is the same size and shape.

Wrapping Up

Replacing a dryer heating element is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following the instructions in this guide, you can safely and easily remove the old heating element and install a new one.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my dryer heating element is bad?

There are a few signs that may indicate that your dryer heating element is bad. These include:

  • The dryer is not heating properly.
  • The dryer is taking longer than usual to dry clothes.
  • The dryer is making a strange noise.
  • The dryer is overheating.

Can I replace the heating element myself?

Yes, you can replace the heating element yourself. However, it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any accidents. If you are not comfortable working on electrical appliances, it is best to consult a qualified appliance repair technician.

How much does it cost to replace a dryer heating element?

The cost to replace a dryer heating element will vary depending on the make and model of your dryer. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $100 for a new heating element.

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Rob Sanders

Rob is a seasoned home improvement writer with over 15 years of experience researching and recommending products for the home. Prior to starting Nurturing Homeaid, he wrote extensively for This Old House magazine and has been featured as a home expert on several TV and radio programs. An avid DIY-er, Rob takes pride in testing out the latest tools and gadgets to see how they can make home projects easier. When it comes to heating systems, he's evaluated over 50 different furnace and boiler models over the years. Rob founded Nurturing Homeaid with his business partner Jim in 2020 to provide homeowners with genuine product recommendations they can trust. In his free time, Rob enjoys remodeling old homes with his family and traveling to visit architectural landmarks across the country. He holds a bachelor's degree in Journalism from Syracuse University.
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