Can I replace a Samsung dryer heating element myself?

Your Samsung dryer’s not heating up, and you’re left with damp clothes. Before you start stressing about calling a repair technician, you might be wondering: can I replace the heating element myself? The good news is, yes, you can!

Replacing a heating element in a Samsung dryer isn’t as complicated as it might sound, and with the right tools and a little patience, you can handle this DIY fix. Let’s walk through everything you need to know to get your dryer heating up again without having to pay for expensive repairs.

If you need any replacement parts for your dryer, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The information provided in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Read more: Samsung Dryer Repair Help

How can I replace the heating element in my Samsung dryer?

Once you’ve tested your heating element and found it to be faulty, you can follow these steps to replace it.

1. Make sure the dryer is unplugged from the power outlet.
2. Depending on the model of your Samsung dryer, access the heating element from the front or rear of the unit. Refer to the manufacturer’s information or online guides for specific instructions on how to access it in your model.
3. Disconnect the wires connected to the heating element.
4. Remove any mounting screws or clips that hold the element in place.
5. Carefully remove the old heating element from the dryer.
6. Install the new heating element in the same position as the old one. Secure it with the mounting screws or clips.
7. Connect the wires to the new element by following the manufacturer’s wiring diagram.
8. Reassemble the dryer by putting back any panels or covers that were removed to access the heating element.
9. Plug in the dryer and run a test cycle to make sure the new heating element is working correctly.

Read more: Dryer Not Heating Help

FAQs

Looking for more? Check out these frequently asked questions about dryers.

How often does a dryer heating element go bad?

Dryer heating elements can last anywhere from 3 to 10 years, depending on regular use and maintenance. Some heating elements can last for 15 years if the unit is well cared for.

The lifespan of dryer heating elements can vary based on several factors, including:

• Frequency of use
• Regular maintenance of the lint trap and venting system
• Dryer load size
• Electrical issues

What causes a dryer heating element to burn out?

One of the primary reasons for a dryer heating element to burn out is overheating. This can happen if there’s a clogged lint trap or a blockage in the exhaust vent or ducting that restricts airflow. Lint is highly flammable, and if it comes into contact with the heating element, it can ignite and damage the element.

Here are some other reasons why the heating element may stop working:

• Blocked vent or airflow issues
• Regular wear and tear over time
• Age of the dryer
• Power supply problems

Read more: How do you know if your dryer vent is clogged?

How can I test a dryer heating element?

Yes! You can use a multimeter to test the heating element. Follow these steps to determine if your dryer has a faulty heating element.

1. Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
2. Remove the back panel or front access panel — depending on your dryer model — to find the heating element.
3. Look for any obvious signs of damage, like breaks or burn marks on the heating coil.
4. Carefully remove the wires attached to the heating element’s terminals.
5. Switch your multimeter to resistance mode.
6. Place the meter probes on the heating element’s terminals.
7. Check the meter reading. A reading between 10 and 50 Ohms typically means the heating element is working (refer to the manufacturer’s technical information for the most accurate resistance guidelines). If the multimeter shows “OL” or infinite resistance, then the element is faulty and needs to be replaced.

More information

Thanks for reading!

If you need any replacement parts for your Samsung dryer, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We have over two million parts in stock, and most orders arrive in just two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see our latest repair guides!