How To Check The Heating Element On A Dryer

How to Check a Dryer Heating Element: A Troubleshooting Guide

Is your dryer taking forever to dry clothes, or is it simply not heating up at all? A faulty heating element could be the culprit. This comprehensive guide will walk you through how to safely check your dryer's heating element, saving you time and potentially costly repair bills. Before you start, remember to always unplug the dryer from the power outlet to prevent electric shock. Safety first!

Understanding the Dryer Heating Element

The heating element is a crucial component in your dryer, responsible for generating the heat needed to dry your clothes. Over time, it can become damaged due to mineral build-up, wear and tear, or even a power surge. A malfunctioning heating element manifests in several ways, including:

• Clothes taking excessively long to dry: This is a common symptom, indicating reduced heating capacity.
• Clothes remaining damp after a cycle: The element isn't producing enough heat to fully dry the load.
• No heat at all: This indicates a complete failure of the heating element.
• Burning smell: This could signal a short circuit or overheating element, potentially a fire hazard.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools:

• Screwdrivers (Phillips and Flathead): These are essential for accessing the dryer's interior.
• Multimeter: This is crucial for testing the continuity of the heating element. You can usually find a multimeter at your local hardware store.
• Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
• Gloves: Protect your hands from sharp edges and potential electrical hazards.

Step-by-Step Guide to Checking the Dryer Heating Element

1. Access the Heating Element: The location of the heating element varies slightly depending on the dryer model. Consult your dryer's owner's manual for precise instructions, but generally, you'll need to remove the back panel of the dryer. This usually involves unscrewing several screws.

2. Visually Inspect the Element: Once you have access, carefully inspect the heating element. Look for any obvious signs of damage such as:

• Broken wires or connections: Loose or broken wires will prevent proper heating.
• Burn marks or discoloration: These indicate areas of overheating and potential damage.
• Physical damage: Bends, cracks, or rust are signs of wear and tear.

3. Test the Heating Element with a Multimeter: This is the most important step. A multimeter is used to test the electrical continuity of the element.

• Set the multimeter: Set your multimeter to the ohms setting (usually represented by the Ω symbol).
• Test the continuity: Touch the probes of the multimeter to the terminals of the heating element. A low resistance reading (usually close to zero ohms) indicates a good connection and a functioning element. A high resistance reading or an "OL" (overload) reading indicates a broken element.
• Repeat the test: Test the continuity at multiple points along the element for thoroughness.

4. Replace the Heating Element (If Necessary): If your multimeter indicates a broken element, you'll need to replace it. Remember to always disconnect the dryer from the power source before working on the electrical components. Replacing the heating element typically involves removing the old one and securely attaching the new one to the dryer's wiring. Again, consult your dryer's manual or search online for a video guide specific to your model. Improper installation could lead to further damage or electrical hazards.

Troubleshooting Tips

• Check the thermal fuse: If the heating element is fine, the thermal fuse might be blown, which prevents the element from heating.
• Check the high-limit thermostat: Similar to the thermal fuse, a malfunctioning high-limit thermostat can also prevent heating.
• Check the wiring: Look for any loose, damaged, or corroded wires connected to the heating element, high-limit thermostat and thermal fuse.

Replacing a dryer heating element can be a relatively straightforward DIY repair; however, if you are not comfortable working with electricity, it's best to contact a qualified appliance repair technician. Remember, safety is paramount when dealing with electrical appliances. By carefully following these steps and taking appropriate safety precautions, you can effectively diagnose and potentially repair your dryer's heating element and get your laundry routine back on track.