How do I know if my heating element is bad?

Common signs include the dryer running but not producing heat, clothes taking excessively long to dry, or a burning smell. A multimeter can be used to test for continuity across the element's terminals; an open circuit indicates a failure.

Can a dryer work without a heating element?

A dryer can power on and tumble without a functional heating element, but it will only circulate unheated air. This will not effectively dry clothes, only tumble them, often leaving them damp.

Is it safe to replace a dryer heating element myself?

Replacing a dryer heating element can be a safe DIY task for those comfortable with basic appliance repair. Always ensure the dryer is unplugged from its power source before beginning any work to prevent electrical shock.

Dryer Heating Element Replacement Guide

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GE WE11M23 Genuine OEM Heating Element Assembly for GE Electric Dryers

The GE Appliances WE11M23 Heating Element Assembly is a genuine OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part designed and engineered to exact specifications.
The GE WE11M23 Heating Element Assembly generates the dryer's heat.
The GE WE11M23 replacement Heating Element Assembly for Dryers fits some models from the following brands of Dr
The GE WE11M23 is a Factory Certified Part that replaces part numbers: 844418, WE11M0014, WE11M0021, WE11M0023, WE11M21
The High quality GE Appliances OEM WE11M23 Heating Element Assembly is manufactured with premium materials for durability and exact fit, be sure to refer to your appliance owners manual to confirm correspondence with ...

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What the WE11M23 does

The heating element generates heat inside the dryer drum to dry clothes. It consists of a coiled wire that heats up when electricity passes through it.

Symptoms when this part fails

Dryer runs but produces no heat
Clothes take excessively long to dry
Dryer trips the circuit breaker
Burning smell coming from the dryer

Compatibility

Fits the GE family. Specifically:

Any unit originally equipped with OEM part number(s): 844418, WE11M0014, WE11M0021, WE11M0023, WE11M21.
Check the model/rating plate inside your appliance and compare it against the fitment table on the product listing before ordering — this guide does not list specific compatible models because Amazon does not provide verified fitment data through this pipeline.

Also replaces: 844418, WE11M0014, WE11M0021, WE11M0023, WE11M21

Tools you'll need

Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Nut driver set
Pliers
Work gloves
Multimeter (optional)

Difficulty: Moderate · Time: 30-60 minutes

How to install the WE11M23, step by step

Unplug the dryer from its power source.
Remove the dryer's back panel or top and front panels to access the heating element.
Disconnect the electrical wires leading to the heating element.
Unscrew and carefully remove the old heating element assembly.
Install the new heating element assembly, securing it with screws.
Reconnect the electrical wires to the new element's terminals.
Reattach the dryer panels, ensuring all connections are secure.
Restore power to the dryer and test its heating function.

Related troubleshooting

If swapping this part doesn't fix the issue, check these next:

Dryer not heating up but runs? 6 fixes for Whirlpool, Samsung, LG, GE and more