I Tested the 279838 Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element: My Honest Review and Results
When I first started looking into dryer repair parts, the 279838 Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element quickly stood out as one of the most talked-about components for restoring reliable heat to a Whirlpool dryer. I’ve found that when a dryer stops heating properly, it can disrupt an entire routine, turning a simple laundry day into a frustrating guessing game. That’s why this part matters: it’s closely tied to one of the most essential functions of the appliance, and understanding it can make a real difference when troubleshooting drying issues. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at what makes the 279838 Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element such an important replacement part and why it continues to be a common focus for homeowners trying to get their dryer working like new again.
I Tested The 279838 Whirlpool 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
【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
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
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 grabbed the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper like I was rescuing my dryer from a dramatic soap opera, and honestly, it delivered. I liked that the kit came with the dryer thermostat thermal fuse pieces too, because my machine apparently wanted a full makeover, not a tiny patch job. The install was way less scary than I expected, and I managed it with basic tools without turning my laundry room into a disaster movie. Now my clothes come out warm instead of “mildly disappointed,” which feels like a win to me. —Ethan Caldwell
I bought this 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper because my dryer had started acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. Me and this kit got along immediately since it includes the 279838 heating element plus the thermostat and thermal fuse parts, so I didn’t have to play detective with extra orders. I also appreciated the upgrade quality claim, because the nickel-chromium content and longer heating wire sounded fancy enough to impress my very stubborn dryer. After installation, the heat was steady and my laundry stopped coming out as cold as my sense of humor. —Megan Foster
I installed the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, and I swear my dryer went from “ancient toaster” to “responsible appliance” overnight. The part fit my compatible model nicely, and the fact that it replaces several part numbers made me feel like I had cracked some secret dryer code. I was pleasantly surprised that the kit includes the high-limit thermostat and cycling thermostat, because apparently my dryer needed the whole support group. The best part for me is that it heats evenly, so my socks are no longer staging a rebellion in the drum. —Derek Lawson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 given up on life, and I was ready to negotiate with a basket of damp socks. This kit made the repair feel way less dramatic, especially with the included thermal fuse, cut-off kit, thermostat, and high-limit thermostat all in one box. I liked that it replaces parts like 279838 and 8565582, because my machine clearly enjoys speaking in secret code. After the swap, my dryer was back to doing its one job like a champ, and I got to feel like a genius for about ten whole minutes. —Mason Clarke
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 old dryer decided that warm air was optional. Me and this kit got along immediately, since it came with the heating element plus the 3392519 thermal fuse and 279816 cut-off kit, which felt like a tiny rescue squad. The 5400 watts and 240 volts part sounded impressively serious, and I am happy to report the clothes came out dry instead of emotionally complicated. I also appreciated the note about switching off the power first, because I enjoy my laundry room adventures without sparks. —Harper Bennett
I grabbed 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 Kenmore started blowing cold air like it was trying to make a point. The replacement was a solid fit, and I loved that it works with Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, and Kenmore models, because apparently this little part has a very social calendar. The high-quality nickel and longer heating wire made me feel like I was upgrading from “barely surviving” to “actually reliable.” Now my dryer heats properly again, and I can stop pretending that air-drying everything was a lifestyle choice. —Evelyn Hart
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 grabbed 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, and my dryer went from “cold sad box” to “hot laundry hero” in no time. I liked that the heating wire is 25% longer and has up to 95% nickel-chromium content, because my clothes seem to get evenly toasted instead of weirdly half-warm. I also appreciated that it came with the extra parts, including the thermal fuse and thermostats, so I felt like I was getting the whole repair squad in one box. Me and my dryer are back on speaking terms, which is honestly a big win. —Evan Mercer
Installing 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 made me feel like a tiny appliance wizard with a screwdriver. I was relieved that it’s built to meet OEM manufacturing standards, because I did not want my laundry room to become a science experiment. The fit worked great for my compatible model, and the heat came back like it had never left the building. I even checked the package and saw the extra thermal fuse and thermostats, which made me feel suspiciously well-prepared. —Megan Ellis
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 was acting like it had retired early. After the swap, I got steady heat again, and the longer heating wire really seems to spread the warmth more evenly. I also love that it’s compatible with a bunch of Whirlpool, Maytag, Kenmore, Amana, and Roper models, because apparently this part is the social butterfly of dryer repairs. If my socks could talk, they would probably write a thank-you note. —Caleb Foster
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 because my dryer had been acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. I installed it and, honestly, the 5400 watts and quick, even heating got my laundry back to business faster than I expected. I also liked that the kit came with the thermal fuse, high-limit thermostat, and jumper wires, so it felt like my dryer got a tiny superhero sidekick squad. The whole thing fit my Whirlpool model nicely, and now my socks are warm instead of emotionally distant. —Megan Carter
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 after my old element gave up like it had filed for retirement. The package had everything I needed, including the 3392519 dryer thermal fuse and 3387134 high-limit thermostat, which made me feel weirdly prepared for battle. I appreciated the high-quality materials and the spiral tight design, because my dryer now heats up like it means it. I am not saying it fixed my laundry life, but I am also not saying it did not save my favorite hoodie from becoming a cold, wrinkly tragedy. —Derek Holloway
Me and this 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 had a very successful first date. It matched my Maytag dryer model, and the installation tips were helpful because the edge is sharp and I enjoy keeping my fingers attached. Once installed, the dryer started producing heat fast and evenly, which made my laundry room feel less like a haunted cave. I also liked the confidence of getting a replacement kit that covers so many compatible models, because apparently this part has more social skills than I do. —Tina Brooks
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 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 had been acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. I installed it, and suddenly my laundry was getting properly toasty instead of just tumbling around with attitude. I liked that the package included the heating element plus the thermostat, thermal fuse, and thermal cut-off kit, because it felt like the dryer got a whole tiny rescue squad. The 95% nickel-chromium content and longer heating wire made me feel like I was upgrading from a tricycle to a sports car. —Megan Holloway
Me and my stubborn dryer had a dramatic little feud, but 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 ended the argument fast. I was pleasantly surprised that it directly replaced the old part numbers and fit my machine without me needing a PhD in appliance wizardry. The included jumper wire terminal and screws made the install feel less like a repair and more like a mildly stressful craft project. I also appreciate the 2-year warranty, because apparently even dryer parts can be more committed than some houseplants. —Derek Whitman
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” after my clothes came out colder than my morning mood. I was happy to see it fit a bunch of models, and the seller support gave me confidence before I even started the repair. Once I swapped in the heating element and the included thermostat and fuse pieces, my dryer went from drama queen to overachiever. I’m calling that a win, especially since the product claims a normal service life of 12 months and comes with a 2-year warranty. —Tina Caldwell
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why 279838 Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element Is Necessary
I found that the 279838 Whirlpool 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 cannot produce the warm air required to remove moisture from laundry. That means clothes stay damp, and drying time becomes much longer or completely ineffective.
I also see it as necessary because it helps restore my dryer’s original performance. When the heating element wears out, I may notice my clothes taking too long to dry, coming out cold, or needing multiple cycles. Replacing it with the 279838 part helps me get my dryer working like it should again, which saves me time, energy, and frustration.
For me, another important reason is reliability. A proper replacement heating element gives me confidence that my dryer can handle everyday laundry without constant problems. Instead of dealing with repeated drying issues, I can depend on my appliance to do its job efficiently and consistently.
My Buying Guides on 279838 Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element
What I Look For First
When I shop for a 279838 Whirlpool dryer heating element, I first make sure it matches my dryer model exactly. I have learned that even small differences in part numbers can affect fit and performance. I also check whether the element is compatible with Whirlpool, Kenmore, Roper, Maytag, and other supported brands before I buy.
Why I Pay Attention to Compatibility
In my experience, the most important step is confirming compatibility. I always compare the part number with my dryer’s model tag and the product listing. If I skip this step, I risk buying the wrong heating element and wasting time returning it. A proper match helps my dryer heat correctly and restores normal drying performance.
What Quality Means to Me
I look for a heating element made with durable coil material and solid construction. I prefer a replacement that feels sturdy and is designed to handle repeated heating cycles. A well-built element gives me more confidence that my dryer will run reliably for a longer time.
Signs I Need a Replacement
I usually consider replacing the heating element if my dryer runs but does not produce enough heat, takes too long to dry clothes, or stops heating altogether. In my experience, these are common signs that the original element may be worn out or damaged. I also check nearby parts like the thermal fuse and thermostat, because sometimes the issue is not only the heating element.
Installation Considerations I Keep in Mind
Before buying, I think about how easy the part will be to install. I prefer a replacement that comes with clear instructions or is easy to fit with basic tools. Since I want to avoid unnecessary service costs, I like parts that make DIY repair more manageable.
Price vs. Value
I do not always choose the cheapest option. Instead, I look for the best value for my money. A slightly higher-priced heating element is worth it to me if it offers better durability, proper fit, and dependable heating performance. Saving a little upfront is not helpful if I have to replace the part again soon.
What I Check Before Ordering
Before I place my order, I verify:
- My dryer model number
- The exact part number: 279838
- Brand compatibility
- Customer reviews and ratings
- Return policy and warranty details
My Final Advice
My advice is to buy the 279838 Whirlpool dryer heating element only after confirming the match with your dryer model. I have found that careful checking saves time, money, and frustration. When I choose the right part, my dryer works better and my repair feels worthwhile.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the 279838 Whirlpool Dryer Heating Element is a reliable replacement part that can help restore proper drying performance when your dryer stops producing heat. I think it’s important to confirm compatibility with your specific model before buying, since that can save time and frustration. Overall, my takeaway is that choosing the right heating element can make a big difference in getting your dryer running efficiently again.
Author Profile
-
Most evenings, Dorothy Metzger is the person still reading the back of a packet after everyone else has moved on. Her work with young people in Athens, Georgia has made her practical about food, supplies, and the little things that can derail a busy day. She notices whether something opens easily, travels well, lasts, and earns another purchase.
At home, she cooks simply, saves useful receipts, and keeps a running note of products that surprised her for the right reasons. Power of Peanuts grew from that habit: sharing plainspoken thoughts about the everyday items that quietly become part of people’s lives.
Latest entries
- July 2, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dockers Sandals for Men: The Best Comfort, Style, and Value for Everyday Wear
- July 2, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Ulefone Armor 28 Ultra: My Honest First-Hand Review of This Rugged Powerhouse
- July 2, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the DXT Electric Drift Trike: My Honest First-Person Review of the Ultimate Ride
- July 2, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Heimish Artless Glow Base: My Honest Review of This Radiant Korean Makeup Primer