How to Test And Repair Your Dryer Heating Element
If your dryer spins round but isn’t throwing any heat chances are your dryer heating element is shot. You can quickly test it yourself and replace if necessary. No need to pay a technician.
Start by disconnecting your dryer’s power source by either unplugging it from the wall or flipping the breaker on your panel. There are many different sizes and shapes of elements but they all share the fact that they are a coiled wire that is made from chrome alloy and nickel.
This wire receives but at the same time resists an electrical current which causes the wire to heat up and that heat is what dries your clothing.
How easy access to your dryer element is will depend a great deal on what make and model of dryer you have. There isn’t one way to access the dryer cabinet but a quick search online and you can find specific instructions for any make or model.
Once you have access to your heating element you will need to use your multi-meter. Set to Rx1 resistance and touch a probe to each end of the element. Take the reading. If your reading is of infinite resistance you will need to replace your heating element.
So you’ve determined that the element is pooched, found a replacement, and now you need to install the new element. If you’ve reconnected the power you need to once again disconnect the power. Generally there are only a couple of screws that hold the element in place. Remove the screws – take out the old element and install the new element. It’s as simple as that. Re-secure and put the cabinet back together and your dryer will be operating again in no time.
Some models will require you to replace the entire heating assembly. Be sure to read the instructions for your make and model. A quick search online and you’ll have all the specs you need.
Your dryer heating element is the most important component to your dryer. In fact it really is the main component. When your element dies you can quickly and easily test and replace in no time at all.
