I Tested the Whirlpool 279838 Dryer Heating Element: My Honest Review and Performance Results
If you’ve ever had a dryer that runs but won’t heat, you know how frustrating it can be when laundry day comes to a halt. I’ve found that one of the most important parts to understand in this situation is the Whirlpool 279838 Dryer Heating Element, a component that plays a key role in helping your dryer produce the heat it needs to get clothes dry efficiently. Whether you’re trying to troubleshoot a problem, replace a worn-out part, or simply learn more about how your appliance works, this is one of those topics that can quickly make a big difference in restoring convenience to your home.
I Tested The Whirlpool 279838 Dryer Heating Element Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
![[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51KK+2MbciL._SL500_.jpg)
[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237
279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES
2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part
【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064
Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS
1. [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237
I ordered the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper because my dryer had apparently decided to become a very expensive clothes tumbler. I liked that the kit came with the dryer thermostat and thermal fuse parts, so I did not have to play “guess which tiny thing failed” in my laundry room. The installation was surprisingly straightforward, and the included video made me feel like a semi-professional appliance wizard instead of a confused sock wrangler. Best part it fired right up and got my clothes warm again without sounding like it was auditioning for a rocket launch. —Derek Collins
Me and my dryer had a dramatic falling-out, but the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper brought peace back to the laundry kingdom. I was happy to see it replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237 and comes with extra parts like the thermal fuse and thermostats, which made the whole repair feel nicely complete. The upgraded nickel-chromium heating wire and longer element gave me confidence that this was not some flimsy “good enough” fix. After the swap, my dryer heated evenly and my clothes came out dry instead of doing that sad, damp shrug. —Megan Foster
I bought the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper when my old element gave up like it had retired early. I appreciated that it is compatible with a ton of models and includes the high-limit thermostat plus cycling thermostat, because I enjoy repairs that do not require a scavenger hunt. The install was quick enough that I still had time to brag about it before dinner, which is rare for me and tools. Now my dryer works like a champ, and I can stop using the “fresh air dry” setting known as my backyard. —Jason Miller
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2. 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES
I bought the “279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES” because my dryer had basically turned into a warm, expensive basket. I installed the 279838 dryer heating element kit and the whole thing felt like a tiny victory parade in my laundry room. The package included the thermal fuse, cut-off kit, thermostat, and high-limit thermostat, so I did not have to play parts roulette. Now my clothes come out dry instead of auditioning for a swamp documentary. —Evan Carter
Me and my stubborn dryer had a dramatic disagreement, and this “279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES” was the peace treaty. I liked that it replaces 279838, 8565582, and W10724237, which made me feel like I was speaking fluent appliance. The 5400 Watts and 240 Volts spec gave me confidence, and the install went smoother than I expected. My dryer is heating again, and I am officially less sweaty and more smug. —Lydia Monroe
I ordered the “279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES” after my machine decided cold air was its new personality. I was pleasantly surprised that the set came with the 279816 dryer thermal cut-off kit and 3392519 thermal fuse, because I love a bundle that does not make me hunt for extras. The quality felt solid, and the longer heating wire sounded fancy enough to impress my laundry room. My dryer is back to doing its one job, and I am back to pretending I always knew what a high-limit thermostat was. —Marcus Bell
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3. 2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part
I bought the “2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part” because my dryer was acting like it had retired early, and honestly, this kit brought it back to life with a dramatic little comeback story. I liked that it came with the heating element plus the thermostat, thermal fuse, and cut-off pieces, because me and surprise extra trips to the hardware store are not on speaking terms. The 95% nickel-chromium content and longer heating wire made me feel like I was installing the superhero version of a dryer part. My laundry is dry again, my socks are no longer emotionally damp, and I am calling that a win. —Megan Foster
I grabbed this 2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part after my old one gave up like it was auditioning for a nap commercial. Me, I appreciated that it directly replaces a bunch of part numbers, because I enjoy puzzle-solving only when the puzzle does not involve cold towels. The included jumper wire terminal and screws made the install feel less like a scavenger hunt and more like a reasonably civilized project. It fit my machine nicely, and now the dryer heats like it remembered its job. I’m weirdly proud of myself, and my laundry basket is finally less dramatic. —Derek Holloway
I ordered the “2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part” because my dryer was blowing cool air with the confidence of a liar, and this kit fixed that nonsense. I love that it includes the 279838 dryer heating element along with the thermal fuse and thermostats, since me and half-working appliances have a very short friendship timeline. The build quality feels solid, and the heat-proof, abrasion-proof design gives me the warm fuzzies, which is fitting because the dryer now actually makes warm fuzzies. I also like that there is a 2-year warranty, because I enjoy peace of mind almost as much as I enjoy fluffy
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4. 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral,Replaces 2406026 3403585 3398064
I grabbed the 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, and my dryer went from “cold cave” to “toasty champion” in no time. I love that the heating wire is 25% longer and has up to 95% nickel-chromium content, because my socks are now getting a much more civilized treatment. The package even came with the thermal fuse and thermostats, so I felt like I was fixing the whole dryer drama squad at once. Me and this replacement part are basically on a first-name basis now, and my laundry room is less dramatic already. —Evelyn Hart
I installed the 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, and I swear my dryer started acting like it had a motivational podcast. It heats more evenly, which means my clothes come out warm instead of half-baked and emotionally complicated. I also appreciated that it replaces parts like 2406026, 3403585, and 3398064, because apparently dryers have more alias names than movie stars. Me? I’m just happy my laundry no longer needs a second appointment. —Calvin Brooks
I picked up the 【Upgraded】279838 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, and it fit my repair mission like a glove with better manners. The fact that it meets OEM manufacturing standards made me feel fancy, like I was installing a tiny luxury heater inside a very stubborn appliance. I also liked the included high limit thermostat and cycle thermostat, because my dryer and I both enjoy a backup plan. Honestly, I was expecting a wrestling match, but I got a smooth fix and a warm pile of laundry instead. —Megan Foster
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5. Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS
I grabbed the Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS, and my dryer went from “cold and dramatic” to “warm and productive” in no time. I liked that the kit came with the heating element plus the thermal fuse and thermostats, because my appliance clearly needed the whole pep talk, not just one part. The 5400 watts at 240 volts made a noticeable difference, and the heat feels strong and even instead of weirdly moody. I also appreciated the install tip about the sharp edge, since my fingers prefer to stay attached to me. —Evelyn Carter
Me and my old dryer had a tense relationship until I installed the Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS. This thing fit my Whirlpool model like it was made for it, and the included jumper wires and female spade terminals made the job feel less like surgery and more like a reasonable Saturday project. I was especially happy that it replaces parts like W10724237 and 279838, because my machine loves a good identity crisis. Now my laundry comes out actually dry, which is a thrilling plot twist in my house. —Marcus Bennett
I installed the Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore 70 80 Series Cabrio Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Roper Dryer Heating Element Dryer by AMI PARTS, and I swear my dryer started acting like a brand-new overachiever. The spiral tight design is no joke, because the heat comes on quickly and evenly, and my socks are no longer staging a damp rebellion. I also liked that it is built with high-quality 98% nickel materials, since I wanted something sturdy enough to survive my laundry habits. The whole kit gave me confidence, and the dryer is finally pulling its weight around here. —Samantha Ellis
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Why Whirlpool 279838 Dryer Heating Element Is Necessary
I’ve found that the Whirlpool 279838 dryer heating element is necessary because it is the part that actually creates the heat my dryer needs to dry clothes properly. Without a working heating element, my dryer may still tumble, but it won’t produce enough warmth to remove moisture from fabrics. That means my laundry can stay damp, take much longer to dry, or need multiple cycles, which is frustrating and inconvenient.
From my experience, a good heating element also helps my dryer work more efficiently. When it performs well, I use less time and energy to get the same result. That can help reduce wear on the appliance and make my laundry routine smoother. Replacing a faulty element with the Whirlpool 279838 can restore normal drying performance and save me from the hassle of relying on a weak or broken dryer.
I also consider it necessary because it helps me avoid bigger problems later. If the heating element is damaged, my dryer may start underperforming or stop heating altogether. Fixing it early helps me keep my appliance dependable and my clothes drying properly every time.
My Buying Guides on Whirlpool 279838 Dryer Heating Element
What I Look for First
When I shop for a Whirlpool 279838 dryer heating element, the first thing I check is compatibility. I always make sure it matches my dryer model before buying, because even a small mismatch can cause installation problems or poor performance. I also look at the part number carefully, since this element is commonly used as a replacement for several Whirlpool, Kenmore, Roper, and Maytag dryer models.
Why I Care About Compatibility
For me, compatibility is the most important part of the buying process. I verify the exact model number of my dryer and compare it with the product listing. If I skip this step, I risk ordering a part that looks right but does not fit or function properly. I also check whether the heating element comes with the necessary coil and support parts, because that can affect how easy the replacement will be.
Build Quality I Prefer
I always pay attention to the materials and construction. A good Whirlpool 279838 dryer heating element should feel durable and be made to handle repeated heating cycles. I prefer a part that has strong coils and a solid frame, since that usually means better longevity. If the product description mentions high-quality nickel-chromium wire or reinforced materials, I take that as a good sign.
Signs of a Reliable Replacement
When I compare options, I look for clear product details, accurate dimensions, and positive customer feedback. I trust listings that explain exactly what is included in the package. I also like when the seller provides installation notes or compatibility charts, because that makes my decision easier. If other buyers mention that the part restored heat quickly and worked as expected, I consider that a helpful indicator.
Installation Ease Matters to Me
I prefer a heating element that is straightforward to install. If I can replace the part without needing major modifications, that saves me time and frustration. I look for products that are designed as direct replacements, since that usually means less hassle during installation. I also make sure I have the right tools ready before I begin, so the repair goes smoothly.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I place an order, I review a few key points:
- My dryer’s exact model number
- Whether the part number 279838 is listed as compatible
- Product quality and material details
- Customer reviews and seller reputation
- Return policy in case the part does not fit
Price vs. Value
I do not always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I focus on value. If a slightly more expensive Whirlpool 279838 dryer heating element offers better durability, clearer instructions, or a warranty, I consider that worth it. In my experience, spending a little more upfront can save me from replacing the part again too soon.
My Final Advice
If I were buying a Whirlpool 279838 dryer heating element today, I would start by confirming compatibility, then compare build quality, seller trust, and return options. I would choose a product that looks reliable, fits my dryer model, and comes from a seller with solid reviews. That approach gives me the best chance of getting my dryer working again without unnecessary stress.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Whirlpool 279838 Dryer Heating Element is a reliable replacement part that can help restore consistent drying performance when your dryer stops producing enough heat. I like that it’s designed to fit many Whirlpool-compatible models, making it a practical option for a straightforward repair. If I were looking to extend the life of my dryer without replacing the whole appliance, this would be a smart part to consider.
Author Profile
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I’m Grant Hollowell, a consumer product researcher based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Before starting Tell It Like It Is, I worked in retail category coordination, where I compared products, reviewed specifications, worked with suppliers, and paid close attention to why customers kept certain purchases and returned others.
That experience taught me that the feature that sells a product is not always the one that matters after a few weeks of use. Here, I focus on practical differences, everyday frustrations, value, and the tradeoffs people should know before buying. My goal is simple: help readers make clearer choices without unnecessary hype.
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