When your dryer stops producing heat, it can be frustrating and inconvenient. However, before you rush to call a repair technician, there are a few steps you can take to test and potentially replace the heating element yourself. In this blog post, we will guide you through the process of testing and replacing a dryer heating element, ensuring that your dryer is back up and running efficiently in no time.
What is a dryer heating element?
A dryer heating element is a coil that is responsible for generating the heat needed to dry your clothes. It is typically located at the back of the dryer and is connected to the dryer's power supply. When the heating element malfunctions or fails, your dryer will no longer produce heat, resulting in damp clothes even after a full drying cycle.
Testing the heating element
Before replacing the heating element, it is important to determine whether it is indeed the cause of the problem. Here's how you can test the heating element:
- Unplug the dryer and turn off the gas supply (if applicable) to ensure your safety.
- Locate the heating element at the back of the dryer. It is usually housed in a metal casing.
- Using a multimeter, set it to the "ohms" setting.
- Disconnect the wires connected to the heating element.
- Place the multimeter probes on the terminals of the heating element.
- If the multimeter reading shows continuity (close to zero ohms), the heating element is functioning properly. If there is no continuity (infinite ohms), the heating element is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Replacing the heating element
If the heating element fails the continuity test, it is time to replace it. Here's how you can do it:
- Order a replacement heating element from a reputable supplier like XPart Supply.
- Unplug the dryer and turn off the gas supply (if applicable).
- Remove the back panel of the dryer to access the heating element.
- Disconnect the wires connected to the heating element.
- Remove any screws or brackets securing the heating element in place.
- Take out the old heating element and replace it with the new one.
- Reattach the wires and secure the heating element with screws or brackets.
- Replace the back panel of the dryer.
- Plug in the dryer and turn on the gas supply (if applicable).
It is important to note that if you are not comfortable or confident in performing these steps, it is best to seek the assistance of a professional technician. Safety should always be a top priority when working with electrical appliances.
By following these steps, you can test and replace a faulty dryer heating element, saving you time and money on a service call. Remember to always consult the manufacturer's instructions or seek professional advice if you are unsure about any aspect of the process. XPart Supply is a reliable supplier that offers high-quality replacement parts for various appliances, including dryer heating elements. They serve the Kitchener, Waterloo, and Cambridge areas, ensuring that you have access to the parts you need.