279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element

Key Features

• High-Efficiency Nickel-Chromium Coil: Manufactured with a premium Ni-Cr alloy wire that provides rapid, consistent heat generation. The coil density is optimized for 5400 watts at 240 volts, ensuring efficient drying cycles.
• Reinforced Ceramic Insulators: Features high-temperature ceramic support blocks that securely hold the heating coil in place, preventing electrical shorts against the metal housing even under extreme thermal expansion.
• Heavy-Duty Galvanized Steel Frame: The heating coil is encased in a corrosion-resistant steel housing designed to withstand the high-airflow, high-heat environment of the dryer’s heater duct without warping.
• Vibration-Resistant Terminals: Equipped with two 1/4-inch male spade terminals designed for high-amperage stability, preventing the "arcing" and localized melting often found in lower-quality aftermarket parts.

Replaces / Cross-Reference Part Numbers

• Primary Part: 279838, W10724237, 3403585.
• Industry Standards: AP3094254, PS334313, EAP334313.
• Legacy Cross-Reference: 3398064, 8565582, 279838VP.

Compatibility & Fitment

This heating element is the most common replacement for Whirlpool-manufactured large-capacity electric dryers. Key compatible brands include:

• Whirlpool & Maytag: Fits hundreds of models including WED4815EW1, MEDC465HW0, and the Centurion/Bravos series.
• Amana & Roper: Compatible with NED4655EW1 and other NED/NGD series units.
• Kenmore (70, 80, & 110 Series): Fits the vast majority of 110-prefix models produced by Whirlpool for Sears (e.g., 110.66132511, 110.60022010).
• KitchenAid, Estate, & Crosley: Direct fit for dozens of budget-friendly and high-end top-lint-filter dryers.
• Note: This part is specifically for Electric Dryers. It is typically located inside a metal heater box at the bottom-right or rear of the dryer cabinet.

When to Replace

• No Heat: The dryer runs and the drum turns, but the air remains cold. This is usually caused by a physical break in the heating coil.
• Long Drying Times: If the coil is partially grounded or sagging, the unit may provide some heat but fail to reach the temperature needed for a full load.
• Tripping Circuit Breaker: If a section of the coil has snapped and is touching the metal heater box, it will cause a short circuit and trip your home's breaker.
• Thermal Fuse Blows Repeatedly: If the element is stays "on" due to a shorted coil, it will blow the safety thermal fuse to prevent a fire.
• Continuity Test Failure: Use a multimeter to test for continuity. If the element shows "Open" (no beep), the internal circuit is broken.

Installation Tips

• Safety First: You MUST unplug the dryer. Electric dryers operate on 240V, which is lethal. Ensure power is completely disconnected.
• Accessing the Element: On most Whirlpool-built models, you must remove the rear panel. The element is housed in a metal tube or "heater box" secured by 1/4-inch hex head screws.
• Clean the Lint Path: **CRITICAL:** Heating elements usually burn out because of restricted airflow. Vacuum the internal blower housing and the entire exhaust duct to the outside wall before installing the new part.
• Check the Thermostats: While the dryer is open, inspect the **Thermal Cut-Off (280148)** and **High-Limit Thermostat**. If the element burned out, these sensors were likely stressed.
• Don't Touch the Coil: Avoid stretching or pulling the coil during installation. Ensure the coil is not touching the metal housing at any point before reassembling.