What Is the 279838 Dryer Heating Element

    The 279838 dryer heating element is a 240V 5400W electric heating assembly used in millions of Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, Roper, and Amana dryers. When your dryer tumbles but blows cold air, a failed heating element is the most common cause.

    As a factory that produces the 279838, we test every unit at full voltage before shipping. This ensures even heat distribution and a service life of 3–5 years under normal use.

Key Specifications

    Specification: Value

    Voltage: 240V AC

    Wattage: 5400W

    Coil material: Nickel‑chromium (≥85%)

    Dimensions: 10.5″ × 7.5″ × 2″

    Terminal type: 5/16″ male spade

  Interchangeable part numbers: 279837, 279838A, 3398063, 3398064, 3403585, 8565582, W10724237, AP3094254.

Which Dryers Use This Element

  The 279838 fits electric dryers only from these brands:

    1. Whirlpool (Cabrio, Duet, Estate, Roper)

    2. Kenmore (110 series – 70, 80, 90, 300, 400, 500, 600)

    3. Maytag (Bravos, Centennial, Performa)

    4. Amana, Admiral, Inglis, KitchenAid, Crosley

 Quick compatibility check: Find your dryer‘s model number. Search online: “*[model number] + 279838*”. If results show this part, you‘re good.

4 Signs of a Failed Heating Element

    1.No heat: Drum spins, clothes stay wet after 60+ minutes

    2.Partial heat: Takes 2–3 cycles to dry a load

    3.Overheating: Burning smell, clothes feel scorched

    4.Dryer won‘t start: Thermal fuse blown due to element short

  ⚠️ Safety: Unplug dryer immediately if you smell burning plastic or rubber.

30‑Minute Installation Overview

  Tools needed: ¼″ nut driver, Phillips screwdriver, needle‑nose pliers, multimeter, vacuum.

    Step 1 – Disconnect power. Unplug or turn off breaker.

    Step 2 – Remove rear panel. Pull dryer away from wall, remove screws.

    Step 3 – Document wiring. Take a photo of wire connections before disconnecting.

    Step 4 – Remove old element. Disconnect wires, remove retaining screws, slide element out.

    Step 5 – Test with multimeter. No continuity = confirmed failure. Also test thermostats.

    Step 6 – Install new 279838. Slide in, secure screws, reconnect wires using your photo.

    Step 7 – Reassemble and test. Replace panel, plug in, run a timed dry cycle. You should feel warm air within 2 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

  Q: Does the 279838 fit my Kenmore 110 dryer?

    A: Yes – most Kenmore 110‑series electric dryers are compatible.

  Q: Can I install this myself?

    A: Yes. The job takes about 30 minutes with basic tools.

  Q: Why is there still no heat after replacing the element?

    A: Check the thermal fuse and cycling thermostat. If either is bad, the dryer won‘t heat even with a new element.

  Q: How long should a 279838 last?

    A: With proper lint maintenance, 3–5 years. Our factory offers a 2‑year warranty.