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A dryer needs a working heating element so it can dry your wet clothes. If the heating element goes bad, you'll need to replace it as quickly as possible if you don't want to end up going to the laundry mat or hanging clothes to dry all around your house. Here is how you can change the heating element on a typical dryer—you will need to consult the service manual for your particular dryer to determine if there are any variances in the instructions you are about to learn.

You Will Need:

• Needle-Nosed Pliers
• ¼" Nut Driver

Safety Measures

Make sure you unplug the dryer before you start working on removing the heating element to protect you from getting shocked or injured. If you have a hard-wired dryer, you will need to turn the electric off at the circuit breaker.

Open the Dryer

All the work you will be performing will be done through the backside of the dryer. Once you have disconnected the power to the dryer, remove the vent, and pull it away from the wall. You will need to remove the back panel on the dryer. There are typically nine ¼" screws that have to be removed. Three of the screws are located on each side of the panel, and three screws are located around the area the power cord goes into the dryer. Take out the screws and set the panel off to the side.

Remove Heating Element Housing

The heating element housing is located on the right side of the dryer. You first need to remove the thermostat from the housing unit. The thermostat fits into the side of the heating element and is held in place with ¼" screws. Take the screws out and remove the thermostat. Remove the two wires from the heating terminals connected to the housing unit as well—you may have to wiggle the wires off of the terminals with your needle-nosed pliers.

Remove the two ¼" screws holding the heating element in place. Slide the heating element out of the housing unit and replace it with your new one. Make sure you have gotten the correct heating element for your particular dryer model and brand. Slide the new heating element into the housing and screw in the two 1/4" screws.

Reconnect the wires to the heating unit and reinstall the thermostat. Put on the back panel and move the dryer back against the wall (make sure you reconnect the vent before you move the dryer back). Turn the power back on. You are now ready to dry your clothes using your dryer again.

For more information, contact Jensen Appliance & Refrigeration.