279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool, Kenmore, Roper, Maytag, Amana
- Direct replacement for Whirlpool 279838, fits the entire Whirlpool family (Kenmore, Roper, Maytag, Amana, Admiral).
- Most common dryer repair after years of use, dryer runs but clothes come out cold or damp.
- Kit usually includes the element plus the thermal fuse and high limit thermostat, swap them all at once.
- Installs in 30 to 45 minutes with a basic socket set, just pull the back panel off.
- Upgraded heavier gauge coil that lasts longer than the original.
Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit
- Flexible Design for Deep Cleaning: Long, bendable rods reach deep into dryer vents to remove lint buildup that causes slow drying and fire hazards.
- Complete 2-Pack Kit: Includes multiple brush heads and extension rods that connect end-to-end to clean up to 25 feet of ductwork.
- Works with Any Drill: Attach to a standard power drill for faster, more thorough cleaning without tiring your arms.
- Improve Dryer Efficiency: Removing lint buildup restores proper airflow so clothes dry faster and your dryer runs cooler.
- Universal Fit: Compatible with all standard 4-inch round dryer duct sizes found in most homes.
BlueStars 3387134 Cycling Thermostat + 3392519 Thermal Fuse Dryer Repair Kit
- Combo kit covers the two most common reasons a Whirlpool family dryer wont start or wont heat.
- Includes the cycling thermostat (3387134) and thermal fuse (3392519), both Whirlpool family fits.
- Lifetime warranty backing, BlueStars is one of the most reputable aftermarket parts brands.
- Thermal fuse is a one time blow part, when it pops the dryer is dead until you swap it.
- Quick fix, usually 20 minutes from cover off to dryer running again.
Electric dryer takes too long to dry clothes? The real reason
An electric dryer that takes too long to dry clothes is a common problem that wastes time and energy. Before you assume your dryer is nearing the end of its life, consider that the issue is often a single, replaceable component or a simple maintenance task. For many homeowners, the most cost effective solution is to identify the faulty part and replace it. Our top recommendation for tackling this problem is the 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool, Kenmore, Roper, Maytag, Amana. This part is the most frequent cause of a dryer running but not heating, a symptom that directly leads to clothes staying damp after a full cycle. Replacing it yourself can save hundreds of dollars compared to a service call and new appliance purchase.
The 279838 heating element is a direct replacement for a vast number of dryers from the Whirlpool family of brands. When this element fails, it means your dryer is still turning on and running its motor, but it's not generating the hot air needed to dry clothes effectively. Instead, clothes come out cold or only partially dry. These parts are relatively inexpensive, typically costing between $20 and $50 for the kit, depending on the retailer and included accessories. Labor costs for a technician to perform this repair can range from $100 to $300, making a DIY replacement a significant money saver.
Why Your Dryer Takes Too Long to Dry Clothes
Several factors can contribute to an electric dryer taking longer than usual to dry clothes. Understanding these causes helps pinpoint the exact problem and the right solution. The most common reasons fall into two main categories: airflow restriction and heating element failure.
1. Airflow Restriction
Proper airflow is essential for a dryer to operate efficiently. Lint and debris can accumulate in various parts of the dryer's venting system, obstructing the path of air. This blockage forces the dryer to run longer to remove moisture, increasing energy consumption and wear on the appliance.
- Lint Filter: The most obvious place for lint buildup is the dryer's lint filter. A clogged filter dramatically restricts airflow. Cleaning this after every single load is the simplest and most effective preventative measure.
- Dryer Vent Duct: The flexible or rigid duct connecting the dryer to the exterior vent can become packed with lint over time. This is especially true for longer runs or ducts with sharp bends.
- Exterior Vent Cap: The cap on the outside of your house can also become clogged with lint, leaves, or even bird nests, preventing air from escaping freely.
- Internal Blower Wheel: Less commonly, the blower wheel itself can become partially obstructed or damaged, reducing its ability to push air through the system.
2. Heating Element Failure
Electric dryers generate heat using a heating element, which is essentially a resistor that glows hot when electricity passes through it. Like any electrical component, these elements can burn out over time. A failing or completely failed heating element is a primary reason why an electric dryer takes too long to dry clothes, or doesn't dry them at all.
- Burned-out Element: The most common failure. The coil inside the heating element breaks, preventing heat generation.
- Faulty Thermostats: The cycling thermostat regulates the drum temperature. If it fails to signal the heating element to turn on or off at the correct times, drying times can be extended or the dryer might not heat at all.
- Blown Thermal Fuse: The thermal fuse is a safety device designed to blow and cut power if the dryer overheats. If this fuse blows, the dryer may stop heating entirely.
Top Product Recommendations for Fixing Slow Drying
[TOP PICK] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool, Kenmore, Roper, Maytag, Amana
When an electric dryer takes too long to dry clothes, especially if the clothes come out cold or damp, a faulty heating element is often the culprit. The 279838 Dryer Heating Element replacement kit is designed for the vast majority of Whirlpool-manufactured dryers, including popular brands like Kenmore, Roper, Maytag, and Amana. This is a common wear-and-tear part that fails after years of service.
Why it's the top pick: This is the most frequent cause of a dryer running but not heating. Replacing the heating element is a repair many homeowners can perform themselves, saving significant money on service calls. The cost of the element itself is typically between $20 and $40. The repair usually involves accessing the heating element housing, swapping out the old element, and often replacing the accompanying thermal fuse and high-limit thermostat, which are usually included in a comprehensive kit. These additional parts protect the new element and ensure proper operation.
Pros:
- Directly addresses the most common cause of a dryer not heating.
- Significantly cheaper than professional repair or a new dryer.
- Kits often include associated parts (thermal fuse, thermostat) for a complete fix.
- Wide compatibility with many Whirlpool family brands.
Cons:
- Requires some basic mechanical aptitude and tools (screwdrivers, nut drivers).
- If the dryer is very old, other components might also be nearing failure.
Best for: Homeowners with a Whirlpool family dryer that runs but doesn't produce heat, or produces very little heat, and are comfortable performing basic DIY repairs.
Option 2: Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit
If your dryer is running hot but still taking too long to dry clothes, the problem is almost certainly airflow. Lint buildup in the dryer vent is a major cause of this. The Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit is designed to tackle this issue by allowing you to thoroughly clean the entire length of your dryer vent system. You attach one end to a standard power drill, and the rotating brush head effectively loosens and removes stubborn lint buildup. Regular cleaning of your dryer vent, ideally once or twice a year, can significantly improve drying times and prevent potential fire hazards. A clogged vent forces the dryer to work much harder and longer, leading to extended cycle times.
Pros:
- Effectively removes lint buildup that restricts airflow.
- Flexible rods and drill attachment make deep cleaning possible.
- Helps prevent dryer fires caused by lint accumulation.
- Improves dryer efficiency, leading to shorter drying cycles.
- cost effective maintenance tool, typically priced around $30-$40 for a complete kit.
Cons:
- Requires some effort to assemble rods and maneuver the brush.
- May not reach extremely complex or unusually long vent runs in some homes.
Best for: Homeowners who suspect their dryer's drying time is slow due to restricted airflow, and want a tool to perform thorough vent cleaning themselves.
Option 3: BlueStars 3387134 Cycling Thermostat + 3392519 Thermal Fuse Dryer Repair Kit
Sometimes, a dryer takes too long to dry clothes not because of a lack of heat, but because the components that regulate heat are malfunctioning. The BlueStars 3387134 Cycling Thermostat + 3392519 Thermal Fuse Dryer Repair Kit addresses two common failure points in Whirlpool family dryers that can lead to poor heating performance.
Why it's a solid choice: The cycling thermostat controls the temperature inside the drum, turning the heating element on and off as needed. If it's faulty, it might not signal the element to heat sufficiently, leading to longer drying times. The thermal fuse is a safety device that blows if the dryer overheats. If it blows, the dryer will stop heating altogether. Replacing these often-failed parts can restore proper heating. This kit is particularly useful as it targets these specific, common failure points, and it's backed by a lifetime warranty from a reputable aftermarket parts manufacturer, typically costing around $20-$30.
Pros:
- Addresses common thermostat and thermal fuse failures in Whirlpool dryers.
- Restores proper heat regulation and safety functions.
- Comes with a lifetime warranty.
- Very affordable repair solution.
Cons:
- Does not address heating element failure itself, only its control.
- Requires disassembly of the dryer to access and replace components.
Best for: Homeowners with Whirlpool family dryers who have already confirmed the heating element is functional but suspect issues with temperature regulation or a blown thermal fuse.
Other Potential Causes for Slow Drying
While the parts above cover the most frequent issues, a few other factors can contribute to an electric dryer taking too long to dry clothes. These are generally less common or relate to user error.
- Overloading the Dryer: Trying to dry too many clothes at once prevents hot air from circulating effectively. Always leave enough space for items to tumble freely. Refer to your dryer's manual for recommended load sizes.
- Not Using the Right Heat Setting: Some fabrics require lower heat settings. Using a high heat setting on delicate items might not dry them effectively and could even damage them.
- Using Too Much Detergent in the Washer: Excess detergent can leave residue on clothes that hinders drying. Make sure you are using the correct amount of detergent for your wash load size. Using a good dishwasher cleaner regularly can help prevent such issues with detergent buildup.
- Faulty Moisture Sensor: Many modern dryers have moisture sensors that detect when clothes are dry and shut off the cycle. If these sensors are dirty or malfunctioning, they may not accurately detect dryness, leading to unnecessarily long cycles. Cleaning these sensors with a soft cloth is a simple first step.
When to Call a Professional
While many dryer issues, including those causing slow drying, are DIY-friendly, there are times when professional help is necessary. If you've replaced the heating element, cleaned the vents thoroughly, and checked other components, but your dryer still takes too long to dry clothes, it might be time to call a qualified appliance repair technician. This is especially true if you encounter complex electrical issues, suspect problems with the main control board, or feel uncomfortable with any part of the repair process. A service call typically ranges from $100 to $200 for diagnosis, with parts and labor added on top. If the repair costs approach the price of a new dryer, it may be more economical to replace the unit. For routine maintenance that can prevent many of these issues, consult our home appliance maintenance checklist.
279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool, Kenmore, Roper, Maytag, Amana
- Direct replacement for Whirlpool 279838, fits the entire Whirlpool family (Kenmore, Roper, Maytag, Amana, Admiral).
- Most common dryer repair after years of use, dryer runs but clothes come out cold or damp.
- Kit usually includes the element plus the thermal fuse and high limit thermostat, swap them all at once.
- Installs in 30 to 45 minutes with a basic socket set, just pull the back panel off.
- Upgraded heavier gauge coil that lasts longer than the original.
Holikme Dryer Vent Cleaner Kit
- Flexible Design for Deep Cleaning: Long, bendable rods reach deep into dryer vents to remove lint buildup that causes slow drying and fire hazards.
- Complete 2-Pack Kit: Includes multiple brush heads and extension rods that connect end-to-end to clean up to 25 feet of ductwork.
- Works with Any Drill: Attach to a standard power drill for faster, more thorough cleaning without tiring your arms.
- Improve Dryer Efficiency: Removing lint buildup restores proper airflow so clothes dry faster and your dryer runs cooler.
- Universal Fit: Compatible with all standard 4-inch round dryer duct sizes found in most homes.
BlueStars 3387134 Cycling Thermostat + 3392519 Thermal Fuse Dryer Repair Kit
- Combo kit covers the two most common reasons a Whirlpool family dryer wont start or wont heat.
- Includes the cycling thermostat (3387134) and thermal fuse (3392519), both Whirlpool family fits.
- Lifetime warranty backing, BlueStars is one of the most reputable aftermarket parts brands.
- Thermal fuse is a one time blow part, when it pops the dryer is dead until you swap it.
- Quick fix, usually 20 minutes from cover off to dryer running again.
