279838 Dryer Heating Element — Install Guide & Compatibility
Updated September 27, 2025
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Part 279838 is a popular electric dryer heating element commonly used in Whirlpool® and Kenmore® models (and select sister brands). If your dryer runs but doesn’t heat, heats briefly then stops, or takes very long to dry, this guide shows how to diagnose, install, and test 279838 the right way.
What 279838 Fixes (Common Symptoms)
| Symptom | Likely Causes | Related Parts |
|---|---|---|
| No heat at all | Open heating element; blown thermal cut-off; failed high-limit or cycling thermostat | 279838 element; 279973/279816 thermal kits; high-limit; cycling thermostat |
| Heats, then shuts off early | Restricted venting; weak cutoff/thermostat | Clean vent path; thermal cut-off; thermostats |
| Very long dry times | Partially shorted element; lint-clogged ducts; weak airflow | 279838; blower wheel; full vent cleaning |
| Burning hot smell | Lint on heater housing; element touching metal | Deep clean housing; verify element sits centered |
Compatibility & Alternate Part Numbers
Always verify by dryer model number (inside door frame or rear panel). 279838 has common alternates/supersessions:
- WP279838 — updated version
- 3387747 / WP3387747 — related heater revisions used in similar platforms
Use the search box below to confirm fit for your exact model:
Cross Reference Information
The 279838 dryer heating element replaces multiple part numbers used in Whirlpool®, Kenmore®, and related brands. Equivalent or superseded part numbers include:
- AP3094254
- 279837 / WP279837
- 2438
- 279838A / 279838VP
- 3398063 / 3398064
- 3403585
- 8565582
- AH334313 / EA334313 / PS334313
- W10724237
Tip: Always match by your exact dryer model number in addition to the part number to ensure proper fit and function.
Tools & Prep
- Unplug dryer; if hardwired, turn off breaker. For gas dryers, this guide isn’t applicable—see gas heat pages.
- Vacuum, towels, and a container for screws.
- 1/4" nut driver, Phillips screwdriver, needle-nose pliers.
- Multimeter (continuity test for element & thermostats).
- Clean vent path (from lint screen housing through the wall to exterior).
Step-by-Step Installation (Electric Dryers)
- Access the rear panel. Remove power. Take out rear screws to expose the heater housing.
- Disconnect wiring. Photograph wiring to the heater housing, thermostats, and cutoffs; disconnect spade terminals.
- Remove heater housing. Release clips/screws and slide the assembly out.
- Swap the element. Transfer any thermostats/cutoffs if your assembly requires; ensure insulators are intact.
- Reinstall housing. Seat fully; make sure the coil doesn’t touch the metal housing.
- Reconnect wiring. Match original photo; check tight, clean terminals.
- Test. Restore power and run a timed-dry high-heat test. Verify steady heat and proper airflow.
Troubleshooting After Install
- No heat still? Test thermal cut-off kit (279973/279816), cycling thermostat, and element continuity.
- Heats, then shuts off? Clean the full vent path; high temps trip safety devices.
- Burning smell? Stop, unplug, and inspect for lint on heater housing or coil touching metal.
FAQ
Do I need to replace thermostats with the element?
Recommended if the old element failed from overheating. Replace the thermal cut-off kit and inspect the cycling & high-limit thermostats.
Why do elements fail repeatedly?
Poor airflow from a clogged vent causes overheating. Clean the entire vent path and blower housing.
Is 279838 the same as WP279838?
WP279838 is the updated number. Always verify by your exact model number.
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Supporting Videos (Curated)
These external videos demonstrate techniques that may apply to 279838 installs. We’ve added notes for clarity. Always verify your exact model and follow safety precautions.
Video #1 — Whirlpool/Kenmore 279838 Replacement
- Tools: 1/4" nut driver, Phillips, needle-nose pliers.
- Key steps: back panel off → heater housing out → element swap → reassemble.
- Timestamps: 0:40 panel · 2:10 housing · 3:45 element · 6:00 test.
Video #2 — Element + Thermal Cut-Off Kit (279973)
- Shows replacing the element and thermal cut-off after an overheat event.
- Timestamps: 1:05 kit overview · 2:20 thermostat swap · 4:10 wiring.
Disclaimer
This guide is provided for educational and informational purposes only. Appliance repairs should always be performed with the dryer unplugged and proper safety precautions taken. If you are not comfortable performing the repair yourself, consult a licensed technician. PartsDiscount.com is not responsible for injury or damage resulting from the use of this information.
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