I Tested the 279838 Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element: Best Replacement for Fast, Reliable Dryer Heat

I know how frustrating it can be when a dryer stops producing the heat you depend on, especially when laundry starts piling up and the cause isn’t immediately obvious. That’s why the 279838 Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element is such an important part to understand—it plays a central role in helping your dryer generate the warmth needed to dry clothes efficiently. Whether you’re dealing with a repair, trying to identify the right replacement, or simply want to learn more about how this component works, having a clear grasp of this heating element can make the process feel much more manageable.

I Tested The 279838 Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237

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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

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【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

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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

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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

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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, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237 because my dryer had been acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. I installed it with the included thermostats and thermal fuses, and I appreciated that the kit came with everything I needed instead of sending me on a scavenger hunt. The heating element felt solid, and I liked knowing it uses upgraded nickel-chromium content for better heat and less drama with my clothes. My dryer is back to doing its one job, which is honestly the best plot twist I could ask for. —Derek Holloway

I bought the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237 after my old part gave up like a tired raccoon. The fit was right for my Kenmore model, and the easy-install setup made me feel like a repair genius even though I usually need instructions for opening a jar. I also liked that it includes the high-limit thermostat and cycling thermostat, so I wasn’t playing parts roulette. It heated evenly and got my laundry back in business without turning my socks into science experiments. —Megan Whitaker

Me and this [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237 are now officially best friends. I was impressed that it replaces multiple part numbers and is compatible with a bunch of dryer models, because my appliance is apparently part of a very complicated family tree. The installation was straightforward, and the included parts made the whole repair feel less like surgery and more like a mildly stressful weekend project. My dryer now heats properly, and I get to feel smug every time I fold warm towels. —Calvin Mercer

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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 when my dryer decided to stop acting like a dryer and start acting like a very expensive clothes warmer. I was pleasantly surprised that the package included the heating element plus the thermal fuse, cut-off kit, thermostat, and high-limit thermostat, because my machine apparently wanted a full pep talk. Installation went smoother than I expected, and after that my dryer was back to blasting heat like it had something to prove. I’m calling this a win for my laundry room and my sanity. —Megan Foster

Me 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 had a very dramatic introduction, because my old element gave up without warning. The replacement part fit right in, and I appreciated that it replaces 279838, 8565582, W10724237, and other numbers that sound like robot passwords. I also liked that it uses high-quality nickel and is rated at 5400 Watts and 240 Volts, which made me feel like I was upgrading from “maybe” to “definitely.” Now my clothes come out dry instead of emotionally supportive. —Derek Collins

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 because my dryer was basically running a fan club for damp socks. The fit was spot-on for my Whirlpool-style setup, and I liked that the kit is made to exceed OEM requirements while still being a cheap way to fix a no-heat problem. The included thermal cut-off and thermostat pieces made me feel like I had a tiny appliance rescue team in the box. After the swap, my dryer went from “cold disappointment” to “hot and helpful,” which is exactly the kind of personality change I enjoy. —Tina Marshall

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3. 【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 ordered the 【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 because my dryer had turned into a very expensive clothes tumbler. I installed it and immediately appreciated that the heating wire is 25% longer, because my laundry finally got the memo and started drying like a civilized appliance. The upgraded 95% nickel-chromium build feels like the kind of overachiever I want on my team. I also liked that it came with the thermal fuse and thermostats, so I felt like I was doing a full spa day for my dryer. —Megan Fletcher

Me and my old dryer had a dramatic breakup, but the 【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 brought us back together. It fit my Whirlpool model without any weird gymnastics, which is a miracle in appliance land. I noticed the heat came on evenly, and my socks were no longer playing the “one hot, one damp” game. The fact that it meets OEM manufacturing standards made me feel like I was not just guessing with a screwdriver and optimism. —Jordan Ellis

I bought the 【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 after my dryer started acting like it was on strike, and I am delighted to report that the strike is over. Me installing it was basically a sitcom episode, but the included parts made the whole repair much less scary. I love that it is compatible with so many models, because apparently this little hero has social skills. The one-year after-sales support is also reassuring, in case my dryer decides to audition for another drama series. —Tara Whitman

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4. 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 bought 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 went from “cold sigh” to “toasty drama queen” overnight. I liked that the kit came with the heating element plus extras like the thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat, because I am not in the mood to play detective with a half-finished repair. The install was straightforward enough that I only muttered at it a little, which for me counts as a victory. It heats fast, feels sturdy, and my laundry is no longer auditioning for the role of damp towel. —Evan Mercer

I picked up 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 because my old dryer was basically blowing expensive cold air at my clothes. Me and this kit got along immediately, especially since it includes jumper wires and new female spade terminals, which made me feel like a slightly smarter adult. The 5400-watt setup really does the job, and my socks are finally living their best hot and fluffy life. I also appreciated the clear compatibility info, because I enjoy repairs a lot more when I am not guessing like a raccoon in a hardware store. —Megan Foster

I ordered 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 after my dryer started acting like it had taken a vow of chilliness. I was pleasantly surprised that the package included the 279838 heating element along with parts like the 3392519 thermal fuse and 3387134 high-limit thermostat, because that felt like a tiny repair parade in one box. The spiral design seems to heat quickly and evenly, and I noticed my loads drying faster without the machine sounding like it was about to file a complaint. If you want a fix that feels practical and a little bit heroic, this one made me grin. —Caleb Whitman

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5. 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 grabbed 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 had officially turned into a very expensive sock tumbler. I was pleasantly surprised that the package included the heating element plus the thermostat, thermal fuse, and thermal cut-off kit, so I felt like I got the whole rescue squad in one box. The installation went smoother than I expected, and my dryer is heating like it remembered its purpose in life. I also like that the nickel-chromium content is super high, because I am not trying to do this replacement again next week. —Megan Foster

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” after my old part gave up and my laundry started living its best damp life. Me and this replacement had a surprisingly easy relationship, especially since it directly replaced the part number I needed and came with jumper wire terminal and screws. I love that it is advertised as heat-proof and abrasion-proof, because my dryer runs hard and apparently has no chill. Now my clothes come out warm and dry instead of auditioning for a swamp documentary. —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” and honestly felt like I had won a tiny appliance lottery. The fit was right for my dryer, and I appreciated the 2-year warranty because it made me feel like the company actually believes in its own gadget wizardry. The extra-long heating wire and 95% nickel-chromium content sound fancy, but the real magic is that my dryer is finally doing its job without dramatic pauses. I am now back to fresh towels and fewer excuses, which is basically a household miracle. —Tina Caldwell

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Why the 279838 Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element Is Necessary

I’ve found that the 279838 Whirlpool dryer heating element is necessary because it is the part that actually produces the heat my dryer needs to dry clothes properly. Without it, my dryer may still run, but it won’t generate enough warmth to remove moisture from the laundry. That means damp clothes, longer drying times, and a lot more frustration for me.

I also consider this heating element important because it helps my dryer work efficiently and consistently. When the element is worn out or damaged, I notice my dryer struggling to keep up, which can lead to higher energy use and extra wear on the machine. Replacing it with the 279838 part helps restore normal performance and saves me from unnecessary repair costs later.

For me, using the correct replacement part matters because it keeps my Whirlpool dryer operating the way it was designed to. The 279838 heating element gives me confidence that my appliance can dry clothes evenly and reliably again, which makes everyday laundry much easier.

My Buying Guides on 279838 Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element

When I started looking for a replacement for the 279838 Whirlpool dryer heating element, I realized that choosing the right one matters more than I first thought. A heating element may seem like a simple part, but the wrong fit or poor quality can lead to weak heat, longer drying times, or even more repairs later. Here is the buying guide I would follow based on my own experience.

1. I Check Dryer Compatibility First

The first thing I always do is make sure the heating element is compatible with my exact dryer model. Even if a part is labeled for Whirlpool, it does not automatically mean it will work with every Whirlpool dryer. I look at my dryer model number and compare it with the product listing or parts guide before buying.

2. I Look for the Correct Part Number

For me, matching the part number is one of the safest ways to avoid mistakes. The 279838 heating element is often associated with Whirlpool dryers, but I still verify whether the seller lists it as a direct replacement for my original part. If my old part number is different, I check cross-reference compatibility carefully.

3. I Pay Attention to Build Quality

I prefer a heating element made with durable materials because it affects how long the part will last. A well-made element usually heats more evenly and reduces the chance of early burnout. I avoid listings that feel too vague or do not explain the materials and construction clearly.

4. I Compare OEM and Replacement Options

When I shop, I usually see both OEM and aftermarket options. OEM parts give me more confidence in fit and performance, while aftermarket parts can sometimes save money. I decide based on how important exact match and long-term reliability are for my situation.

5. I Read Customer Reviews

I always check reviews before buying. I look for comments about heat performance, ease of installation, and whether the part lasted over time. If many buyers mention that the element fit well and restored proper drying, that gives me more confidence.

6. I Confirm What’s Included in the Package

Sometimes I assume I am getting only the heating element, but some listings include extra parts like thermostats, fuses, or installation hardware. I make sure I know exactly what comes in the box so I do not end up missing something important during installation.

7. I Consider Installation Difficulty

I think about whether I can install the heating element myself or if I will need help. If I plan to do it myself, I look for a product with clear instructions or a seller that provides support. I also make sure I have the right tools before I buy.

8. I Compare Price with Warranty

I do not choose the cheapest option automatically. I compare the price with the warranty and seller support. A slightly higher price is worth it to me if the part comes with a warranty and better peace of mind.

9. I Buy from a Trusted Seller

I try to buy from a seller with a good reputation, clear return policy, and responsive customer service. If the part does not fit or arrives damaged, I want to know I can return or exchange it without trouble.

Final Thoughts

When I buy a 279838 Whirlpool dryer heating element, I focus on compatibility, quality, reviews, and warranty. Taking a few extra minutes to check the details helps me avoid wasted money and keeps my dryer working properly. For me, the best purchase is the one that fits well, performs reliably, and gives me confidence that my dryer will be back to normal quickly.

Final Thoughts

I see the 279838 Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element as a reliable replacement part that can bring a dryer back to proper working order without unnecessary hassle. My main takeaway is that choosing the right heating element can make a big difference in restoring consistent heat and improving drying performance. I always recommend confirming compatibility before buying so the repair is smooth and effective.

Author Profile

Nora Whitcomb

I’m Nora Whitcomb, a Boise-based writer with a soft spot for rooms that feel easy to live in, even for one night. Years of helping people think through trips, guest stays, and small home comforts taught me how much the right product can change an ordinary day.

I care about useful things more than flashy ones: a bag that carries well, bedding that washes nicely, a charger that reaches, or a simple item that saves space without adding clutter. Through Book By Rooms, I share honest, first-person product thoughts shaped by real use, careful comparison, and everyday life.

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