279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element Kit

Key Features

• Premium Ni-Cr Heating Coil: The 279838 element is engineered with a high-grade Nickel-Chromium alloy coil that provides 15% better heat resistance than standard versions, ensuring consistent drying temperatures and a longer operational lifespan.
• Complete 4-Piece Safety Overhaul: This kit includes the heating element and the essential 279816 Thermal Cut-off Kit (which contains both a high-limit thermostat and a thermal cut-off fuse) plus the 3392519 blower fuse.
• High-Temperature 279816 Cut-Off: Includes the critical safety duo designed to shut off power to the heating element if the dryer temperatures reach dangerous levels due to a vent blockage or motor failure.
• 3392519 Blower Protection: Features the specialized one-time thermal fuse located on the blower housing, designed to prevent the dryer from starting or heating if the exhaust airflow is severely restricted.
• Reinforced Ceramic Standoffs: Built with high-density ceramic insulators that prevent the heating coil from sagging or shorting against the metal heater box during high-vibration operation.

Replaces / Cross-Reference Part Numbers

• Heating Element: 279838, 279837, 279838VP, 3398064, 3403585, AP3094254.
• Thermal Cut-off Kit: 279816, 279816VP, 3389654, 3391914, 3977393, AP3094224.
• Thermal Fuse: 3392519, WP3392519, 3388651, 697354, AP6008325, PS11741460.

Compatibility & Fitment

This kit is the "universal" heating repair solution for most Whirlpool-built 29-inch wide dryers. Key compatible brands include:

• Whirlpool & Kenmore: Fits most 70, 80, 90, and 110 series models (e.g., 110.66722501, 110.62822101).
• Maytag & Amana: Compatible with many Centennial, Bravos, and traditional top-load matching electric dryers.
• Estate, Roper, & KitchenAid: Direct fit for dozens of mid-range and heavy-duty 240V electric dryer models.
• Note: Specifically for Electric dryers. Gas models utilize a burner assembly rather than a 279838 coil element.

When to Replace

• No Heat / Cold Air: The dryer drum spins and the timer advances, but the clothes stay wet—usually indicating a snapped heating coil or a blown 3392519 thermal fuse.
• Dryer Won't Start: On many Whirlpool-style models, if the 3392519 fuse blows, the dryer will not even turn on as a safety precaution to prevent fire.
• Takes Multiple Cycles to Dry: A partially failed or grounded element can produce insufficient heat, doubling or tripling your drying times and energy bills.
• Burning Smell: Often a sign of lint buildup scorching against the heater box or a wire terminal overheating due to a loose connection.
• Tripped Circuit Breaker: If the heating coil sags and touches the metal heater box, it will cause the 240V breaker in your home to trip instantly when the heat starts.

Installation Tips

• Safety First: You MUST unplug the dryer from the 240V outlet. Electric dryers use high voltage that can be lethal—do not attempt a "live" repair or test.
• Vacuum the Chassis: While the back panel is removed, vacuum out all accumulated lint from the bottom of the dryer and the blower housing. This is the best way to prevent your new fuses from blowing.
• The Vent Test: Before your first load, check the outdoor exhaust vent for obstructions. A clogged vent is the #1 reason heating elements and thermal fuses fail.
• Tighten Wire Terminals: Ensure all spade connectors are snug on the new thermostats. Loose connections create resistance-heat, which can melt the new components.
• Component Location: The 3392519 fuse is located on the white blower housing, while the element and 279816 kit are located on the silver heater box assembly.