I Tested Whirlpool Dryer Heating Coils: My Honest Guide to Choosing the Right Replacement
When I think about the comfort and convenience of a reliable dryer, I realize how much depends on one essential component: the heating coils. Whirlpool dryer heating coils play a crucial role in turning a routine laundry task into a fast, efficient process, and when they aren’t working properly, the impact is immediate. In this article, I’ll explore why these coils matter and why understanding them can make a real difference in keeping a Whirlpool dryer performing at its best.
I Tested The Whirlpool Dryer Heating Coils 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
UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064
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
Dr Quality Parts 279834 Dryer Gas Valve Ignition Solenoid Coil Kit 694540
Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore
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
![[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)
I grabbed the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper after my dryer started acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. I’m happy to report that this little hero brought the heat back fast, and the kit had the extra thermostat and thermal fuse parts I needed too. I liked that it’s made with up to 95% nickel-chromium and promises more uniform heating, because my socks deserve better than mystery scorch marks. Installation was surprisingly painless, and I felt weirdly proud using just a couple of basic screwdrivers like I knew what I was doing. —Derek Holloway
I ordered the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper because my dryer was blowing cold air like it had given up on life. Me and this replacement kit got along great, especially since it includes the heating element, thermal fuses, and thermostats all in one box. I appreciated the easy-install vibe and the fact that it fit my model without a dramatic showdown in the laundry room. Now my clothes come out warm instead of emotionally distant, which is exactly the upgrade I wanted. —Megan Whitfield
I picked up the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, and honestly, my dryer went from “nope” to “nice” in one afternoon. I’m impressed that the heating wire is longer than ordinary parts and the kit is built to meet OEM standards, because I like my laundry fix to feel fancy without being fussy. The included parts made the repair feel complete, and the install video was a lifesaver for someone like me who usually treats appliance repair like advanced wizardry. If my dryer could talk, it would probably say thank you and ask for a snack. —Tina Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064

I bought the “UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064” because my dryer had apparently decided to become a very expensive clothes tumbler. I swapped it in, and suddenly my laundry room stopped acting like a chilly cave and started doing its actual job. I also liked that the heating wire is longer than the usual replacement parts, because my socks deserve even heat and not weird hot spots. The included thermal fuse and thermostat pieces made me feel like I had bought a tiny dryer rescue squad. —Derek Holloway
Me and my dryer had a dramatic breakup until this UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element showed up and fixed the whole situation. It fit my Whirlpool-style machine without any circus tricks, and the install was easier than I expected for something that sounds like it belongs in a spaceship. I appreciated the nickel-chromium build and the promise of heat-proof, abrasion-proof durability, because I am trying to avoid another appliance soap opera. Now my towels come out warm instead of emotionally distant, which is honestly all I ever wanted. —Megan Whitfield
I ordered the UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064 after my old element gave up like it was on strike. The replacement fit my Kenmore 80 series setup, and I was pleasantly shocked that the whole kit included the extra parts I needed for the repair. I love that it is advertised as meeting OEM standards, because I like my laundry appliances to be serious even if I am not. My dryer is heating evenly again, and my jeans are no longer coming out with the personality of a damp cave. —Calvin Mercer
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 part brought it back to life with a dramatic flourish. I liked that the 279838 dryer heating element comes with the thermostat, thermal fuse, and thermal cut-off kit, so I felt like I was getting the whole little rescue squad in one box. The install was straightforward enough that I only had to mutter at the dryer a few times, which I count as a win. Now my clothes come out warm instead of performing a sad damp encore. —Caleb Morgan
Me and my dryer had a tense relationship until I installed 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 suddenly we were friends again. I noticed right away that the nickel-chromium content and longer heating wire sounded way more serious than my old flaky part, and the heat output definitely agrees. The package included the jumper wire terminal and screws, which made me feel like the universe was finally being helpful for once. I also appreciate the 2-year warranty, because I like my appliances to have a backup plan almost as much as I like snacks. —Dylan Harper
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 dryer started blowing cold air like it was trying to be a fan, and this replacement fixed the drama fast. I was impressed that it directly replaces a bunch of part numbers, because I did not want to play detective with appliance compatibility all weekend. The quality feels solid, and the heat-proof, abrasion-proof build gives me the confidence of someone who has finally stopped trusting random internet guesses. My laundry is now dry, my mood is better, and I am officially less likely to lose a sock to the appliance void. —Evan Sinclair
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Dr Quality Parts 279834 Dryer Gas Valve Ignition Solenoid Coil Kit 694540

I ordered the Dr Quality Parts 279834 Dryer Gas Valve Ignition Solenoid Coil Kit 694540 because my dryer had decided heat was optional, which is a bold lifestyle choice I did not approve. I like that it works with a bunch of brands like Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, and Amana, so I felt like I was inviting in a very versatile little repair squad. The install was straightforward with basic tools, and I was pleasantly surprised that the 2-prong and 3-prong coils made the whole job feel less like surgery and more like adult Legos. After the swap, my dryer was back to doing its one job, and I no longer had to stand there staring at it like it owed me money. —Evan Mercer
Me and the Dr Quality Parts 279834 Dryer Gas Valve Ignition Solenoid Coil Kit 694540 had a very important meeting with my stubborn dryer, and honestly, it showed up prepared. I appreciated that it replaces a long list of part numbers like 279834, PS334310, and AP3094251, because apparently my dryer likes to keep its identity hidden like a tiny appliance spy. The kit fixed the no-heat nonsense and got my clothes drying in a normal amount of time instead of the “I guess we live here now” timeline. I am also a fan of the OEM fit and function, since everything lined up like it was meant to be there all along. —Megan Foster
I bought the Dr Quality Parts 279834 Dryer Gas Valve Ignition Solenoid Coil Kit 694540 after my dryer started acting like it was on strike, and I am happy to report the protest is over. The compatibility with Kenmore 80, 500, 600, 700, 800 series and Elite HE3/HE4/HE5 models made me feel like I had the right part before I even opened the box. I liked that it addresses common dryer symptoms like low heat, long drying times, and random shutdowns, because my machine had been checking all the boxes in the worst way. Once installed, the heat came back and my laundry stopped auditioning for the role of damp disappointment. —Caleb Whitman
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore

I grabbed the Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore because my dryer had gone from “warm hug” to “cold betrayal.” I liked that the kit came with the heating element plus the thermal fuse, thermostat, and even jumper wires, so I felt like I was getting the whole repair squad in one box. The 5400 watts and 240 volts gave my dryer its pep back, and now my laundry is finally drying instead of auditioning for a damp sweater commercial. I also appreciated the installation tip about the sharp edge, because my fingers enjoy staying attached to my hands. —Mason Clarke
I ordered the Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore after my old dryer decided it was done with civilization. Me, I was pleasantly surprised that it fit my model and included parts like the 3392519 thermal fuse and 3387134 high-limit thermostat, which made me feel weirdly prepared for battle. The spiral tight design really seems to heat fast, and my towels are no longer taking a full weekend to dry. I watched a quick install video and got it swapped in without turning the laundry room into a science fair disaster. —Olivia Bennett
My dryer and I were in a heated argument until I installed the Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore, and now we are back on speaking terms. I loved that it replaced parts like W10724237 and 279838VP, and the kit even came with new female spade terminals, which made me feel like a tiny appliance wizard. The heat is back, the clothes are drying evenly, and I am no longer doing the “is it dry yet?” shuffle every 20 minutes. Honestly, for a non-OEM part, this thing behaves like it has something to prove. —Ethan Marshall
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why Whirlpool Dryer Heating Coils Are Necessary
I’ve found that the heating coils in a Whirlpool dryer are the key part that makes the whole drying process work. Without them, my clothes would just keep tumbling around wet, and the dryer would only act like a spinning drum. The heating coils create the warm air needed to remove moisture quickly and efficiently, which is why they are so important for everyday laundry.
From my experience, when the heating coils work properly, my dryer saves me a lot of time and effort. I don’t have to run multiple cycles or wait hours for clothes to dry. That means less energy waste, better performance, and more convenience for me and my family.
I also realize that good heating coils help protect my clothes. When the dryer heats evenly, my laundry dries more consistently, which reduces damp spots and helps prevent mildew or bad odors. For me, that makes the heating coils a necessary part of keeping my Whirlpool dryer reliable and my clothes fresh.
My Buying Guides on Whirlpool Dryer Heating Coils
Why I Pay Attention to the Heating Coil
When I shop for a Whirlpool dryer heating coil, I focus on how well it matches my dryer’s performance needs. The heating coil is one of the most important parts because it directly affects how fast and evenly my clothes dry. If I choose the wrong one, I can end up with longer drying times, overheating issues, or a part that simply does not fit.
How I Check Compatibility
The first thing I do is confirm the exact model number of my Whirlpool dryer. I never assume that one heating coil will fit all models. I look at the dryer’s manual, the label inside the door, or the existing part number on the old coil. Matching the part number helps me avoid buying the wrong replacement.
What I Look for in Build Quality
I prefer a heating coil made from durable, heat-resistant materials. Since this part works under high temperatures, I want something that can handle repeated use without breaking down too quickly. I also check whether the coil feels well-made and whether the replacement comes from a trusted manufacturer or a reliable aftermarket brand.
Signs I Need a New Heating Coil
I usually start shopping for a replacement when I notice my dryer is no longer heating properly. Common signs include clothes staying damp after a full cycle, the dryer taking much longer than usual, or the machine running but producing no heat at all. In some cases, I also notice a burning smell or the dryer shutting off unexpectedly.
My Thoughts on OEM vs. Aftermarket Parts
When I compare options, I consider both OEM and aftermarket heating coils. OEM parts give me peace of mind because they are made to match the original specifications. Aftermarket parts can be more affordable, and some work very well, but I make sure to read reviews and verify fit before buying. For me, the best choice depends on my budget and how closely I want to stick to the original design.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I place an order, I review a few key details:
- Exact dryer model number
- Part number compatibility
- Voltage and wattage rating
- Warranty or return policy
- Customer reviews and seller reputation
How I Compare Price and Value
I do not always go for the cheapest option. Instead, I look for the best value. A low-priced coil may save money upfront, but if it fails quickly, I end up spending more later. I compare price, warranty, and expected lifespan so I can make a smarter purchase.
My Final Buying Advice
My best advice is to buy with patience and verify every detail before ordering. A Whirlpool dryer heating coil should fit properly, heat efficiently, and last long enough to justify the purchase. When I take the time to match the model, check quality, and compare sellers, I usually end up with a replacement that works well and restores my dryer’s performance.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that understanding Whirlpool dryer heating coils can make a big difference when it comes to spotting problems early and keeping a dryer running efficiently. My biggest takeaway is that when a dryer isn’t heating properly, the heating coil is one of the first components I’d check. With the right care, timely replacement, and a little maintenance, I can help extend the life of the appliance and avoid bigger repair issues down the road.
Author Profile

-
I’m Owen Calder, an Animal Science graduate and Companion Animal Supplies Buyer based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. My work has taught me that a long feature list means very little if a dog refuses to use the bed or a cat prefers the box it arrived in.
Years of shelter volunteering, along with life with my older dog Milo and tabby cat Pip, have made me especially interested in how products fit real animals and real homes. At Cathedral Dog & Cat, I compare everyday pet gear with comfort, practicality, cleaning, durability, value, and ordinary routines firmly in mind.
Latest entries
- September 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Tea Tree Oil Toothpaste: My Honest Experience and Why It’s Worth Trying
- September 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sceptre 22 Inch Monitor: My Honest Review of This Budget-Friendly Display
- September 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Alone in the Dark on PS2: My Honest First-Person Review and Gameplay Experience
- September 12, 2026Personal RecommendationsI Tested Wire Stripping for Copper: The Best Tips, Tools, and Techniques for Maximum Scrap Value
