Whirlpool, Maytag & Kenmore Dryer Heating Element Parts — Models & Compatibility

Your Whirlpool dryer runs through the entire cycle but clothes come out cold and damp. That's the classic sign of a failed heating element — and the 279838 is the exact replacement for dozens of Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore, Amana, and Roper models. This hub covers which models use this element, how to verify compatibility, and what causes these coils to burn out.

Is This the Right Heating Element for Your Model?

Check your dryer's model number before ordering. You'll find it on a metal tag inside the door opening (on the front panel rim) or on the back panel near the power cord. Match your full model number against the compatibility list below — if it's there, this 279838 element is your direct replacement.

About the 279838 Heating Element

This heating element typically fails due to wear and tear, material fatigue, or prolonged high temperature exposure. When it goes, you'll notice the dryer runs normally but produces no heat — or in some cases, it gets too hot because part of the coil has shorted. One owner described their repair: "Moved away from wall, disconnected discharge hose, disconnected power, removed rear panel, cleaned the area of lint, removed old element and replaced with new one, reinstalled everything and tested. Works great now." The repair takes 30-60 minutes with basic tools: a nutdriver, screwdrivers, and a socket set. Difficulty level is easy — most DIYers handle this without issues.

Common Symptoms When This Part Fails

• Not Heating: Dryer runs but clothes stay wet and cold
• Too Hot: Partial short causes overheating, potential scorching
• Heat Stays On After Drum Stops: Element won't cycle off properly
• Won't Start: In rare cases, a shorted element trips safety circuits

What Causes Heating Element Failure?

Heating elements don't last forever. Material fatigue from thousands of heat cycles weakens the coil wire. Lint buildup around the element housing restricts airflow, causing the coil to overheat and fail prematurely. If your dryer vent is clogged or crimped, back pressure forces the element to work harder and hotter than designed. Always clean your vent system and the area around the element before installing the new part — it'll extend the life of your replacement.

Cross-Reference Numbers

This element replaces several older part numbers: AP3094254, W10724237, 3403585, and 8565582. If your original repair manual lists any of those numbers, the 279838 is the current replacement.

Installation Overview

You'll need to access the rear panel of your dryer. Unplug the unit, move it away from the wall, and disconnect the vent hose. Remove the screws holding the back panel, then locate the heating element housing (usually lower right side). Disconnect the wire terminals, remove the mounting screws, and slide out the old element. Clean all lint from the housing before installing the new 279838. Reconnect wires, test continuity if you have a multimeter, then reassemble. Run a test cycle to verify heat output.

Compatible Whirlpool Models (Partial List)

WED4815EW1, WED4800BQ1, WED4800XQ0, WED5000DW2, WED5100VQ1, WED5300SQ0, WED6200SW1, WED6400SW1, WED49STBW1, LER5620KQ0, LER4634EQ2, LEN2000LW0, and many more.

Compatible Maytag Models

MEDC215EW1, MEDX series, and other Maytag dryers built on shared Whirlpool platforms.

Compatible Kenmore Models

Many 110-series Kenmore dryers manufactured by Whirlpool use this element. Check your model number to confirm.