What causes a heating element to burn out in a dryer?

If you’re wondering why your dryer’s heating element has decided to call it quits, you’re in the right place. A burned-out heating element can disrupt your laundry day plans, but it doesn’t have to stay that way!

Let’s unpack some of the common reasons why your heating element can fail — and how to prevent them — so you can keep your dryer working for you.

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 is based on electric dryer models 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.

Common causes of heating element failure

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

How to prevent premature heating element failure

• Always clean the lint trap after each use to maintain proper airflow and reduce the risk of overheating.
• Check the dryer vent and ductwork regularly for blockages and clear them as needed.
• Don’t overload the dryer, since this can strain the heating element and impede airflow.
• Pay attention to drying cycles and address any issues as soon as possible.

Read more: Dryer Repair Help

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• 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.

How 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.

Read more: Dryer Not Heating Help

How long do dryer heating elements last?

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

More information

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you fix your 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 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.

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