Test & replace the blower wheel in your Kenmore electric dryer: A step-by-step guide

Is your Kenmore dryer making strange noises or struggling to dry clothes? Learn the simple steps to test and replace the blower wheel, bringing your dryer back to peak performance, all without a repair call!

If you need any replacement parts for your Kenmore electric 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 testing and replacement information in this article is based on model 11068722700 and 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.

What you need

• 1/4 inch nut driver
• Putty knife
• Shop vac

Important: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Safety tips

Your safety should always be the top priority when performing any appliance repair.

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.

Read more: Tips for Caring for Your Dryer | Clothes Dryer Maintenance

How to test and replace Kenmore electric dryer’s blower wheel

Step 1. Access the blower wheel

1. Unplug the dryer from the power source or turn off the circuit breaker.

2. Open the dryer door and remove the lint screen.
3. Use a putty knife to press in on the two clips holding the bottom panel, and remove the panel.
4. Use a ¼-inch nut driver to remove the three screws securing the blower housing.
5. Carefully pull away the blower housing and detach the yellow sensor wire.

Step 2. Inspect and clean the blower wheel

1. Inspect the blower wheel for lint build-up or any foreign objects lodged in the vanes.
2. Use a shop vac and a small screwdriver to clean lint from each vane.
3. Remove any foreign objects, like pencils or nails, found inside the blower wheel.

Step 3. Reassemble the dryer

1. Reattach the blower housing and reconnect the yellow sensor wire.
2. Reinstall the bottom panel and place the lint screen back into position.
3. Reconnect the dryer to the power source or turn the circuit breaker back on.

Read more: 6 reasons your dryer is making a squealing sound & how to troubleshoot

You made it!

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you test and replace the blower wheel in your Kenmore electric dryer.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We have over two million parts in stock and most orders arrive in 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.

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