Whirlpool Dishwasher Heating Element W11537778

The W11537778 dishwasher heating element is a critical OEM component that heats water during the wash cycle and dries dishes during the dry cycle. This 1550-watt element mounts at the bottom of the dishwasher tub and is the only thing standing between you and wet dishes at the end of every cycle. When it fails, cleaning and drying performance collapse — replacing it restores full performance immediately.

Common Symptoms This Part Fixes

• Dishwasher won't dry dishes
• Dishes come out wet at end of cycle
• No heat during wash or dry cycle
• Water doesn't get hot enough to clean properly
• Dishwasher takes too long to dry
• Dishes have water spots or streaks
• Heating element not glowing during dry cycle
• Tripped circuit breaker when dishwasher runs

Key Features and Specifications

• Part Number: W11537778 (replaces W11047695, W11412298, W11536143, W11536777, W11537777)
• Type: Dishwasher heating element assembly
• Power: 1550 watts
• Compatibility: Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag dishwashers
• Function: Heats water during wash cycle and dries dishes during dry cycle
• Includes: Heating element and two plastic mounting nuts (W11538351)
• Material: Durable metal construction with corrosion-resistant coating
• Installation: Mounts at bottom of dishwasher tub

Buying Options

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer): Genuine Whirlpool factory part — exact fit and quality as the original component installed in your dishwasher. Best for warranty compliance and guaranteed compatibility.

XPart (Premium Aftermarket): Engineered to meet or exceed OEM specifications. Excellent value with reliable performance at a competitive price. Backed by our fit guarantee.

Installation Tips

Difficulty Level: Moderate – requires accessing bottom of dishwasher tub
Estimated Time: 30–60 minutes
Tools Needed: Screwdriver, pliers, multimeter (for testing)

1. Disconnect power to dishwasher at circuit breaker
2. Turn off water supply to dishwasher
3. Remove lower dish rack for access
4. Locate heating element at bottom of tub
5. Disconnect wire connections from element terminals
6. Remove mounting nuts from underneath dishwasher
7. Pull out old heating element from tub
8. Insert new element through mounting holes
9. Install mounting nuts and tighten securely
10. Reconnect wire connections to terminals
11. Restore power and water, test dishwasher

⚠️ Safety Note: Always disconnect power before servicing your dishwasher. Test the old element with a multimeter before replacing to confirm it has failed. If you're not comfortable with electrical repairs, contact a qualified technician.

Compatible Models

KitchenAid: KDFE104KBL0, KDFE104KPS0, KDFE104KWH0, KDFE204KBL0, KDFE204KBS0, KDFE204KPS0, KDFE204KWH0, KDFM404KBS0, KDFM404KPS0, KDPM604KBS0, KDPM604KPS0, KDPM704KPS0, KDPM804KBS0, KDPM804KPS0, KDTE104KPS0, KDTE204KBL0, KDTE204KBS0, KDTE204KPS0, KDTE204KWH0, KDTM404KBS0, KDTM404KPS0, KDTM604KBS0, KDTM604KPS0, KDTM704KPS0, KDTM804KBS0, KDTM804KPS0

Maytag: MDB4949SKB0, MDB4949SKW0, MDB4949SKZ0, MDB7959SKZ0, MDB8959SKB0, MDB8959SKK0, MDB8959SKW0, MDB8959SKZ0, MDB9959SKZ0, MDB9979SKZ0

Whirlpool: WDT750SAKB0, WDT750SAKV0, WDT750SAKW0, WDT750SAKZ0, WDTA50SAKB0, WDTA50SAKT0, WDTA50SAKV0, WDTA50SAKW0, WDTA50SAKZ0, WDTA80SAKZ0

Not sure if this fits your model? Contact our parts experts for free compatibility verification.

Replacement Part Numbers

Part W11537778 replaces: W11047695, W11412298, W11536143, W11536777, W11537777

Why Choose XPart Supply?

• 🇨🇦 Canadian Business – 30+ years serving Canadian homeowners and repair technicians
• 📞 Expert Support – Free phone support to verify fit and answer installation questions
• ✔ Guaranteed Fit – We'll help you get the right part or provide a hassle-free return
• 🚚 Fast Shipping – Quick delivery across all Canadian provinces and territories
• 💰 Best Value – Competitive pricing on OEM and premium aftermarket parts

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my dishwasher heating element has failed?
Common signs include dishes not drying, water not getting hot during wash cycle, or the element not glowing red during the dry cycle. Test with a multimeter — it should read 15–30 ohms. Infinite resistance or zero means it has failed.

What's the difference between OEM and XPart options?
OEM parts are genuine Whirlpool factory components — exact fit and quality. XPart parts are premium aftermarket replacements engineered to meet or exceed OEM specs at a competitive price. Both are backed by our fit guarantee.

Can I install this myself or do I need a technician?
This is a moderate-difficulty repair most DIYers can handle with basic tools in 30–60 minutes. If you're not comfortable with electrical repairs, we recommend a qualified technician.

Why does my dishwasher trip the circuit breaker?
A shorted heating element is a common cause. If the element's insulation has failed, it creates a short circuit that trips the breaker. Test for continuity to ground — if it shows continuity, the element is shorted and needs replacement.

Will this fix my dishwasher's drying problem?
If the heating element has failed, yes. However, poor drying can also be caused by a faulty thermostat, rinse aid dispenser issues, or wrong detergent. If the element tests good, check those components next.

Model-Specific Repair Pages