I Tested Maytag Heating Element Replacement: A Simple DIY Guide to Fixing My Dryer Fast

If you’ve ever opened your dryer expecting warm, ready-to-wear clothes only to find them still damp and cold, I know how frustrating that can be. When that happens, Maytag heating element replacement can quickly become a topic worth understanding, especially if you want to get your appliance back to doing its job without unnecessary delay. In this article, I’ll explore what this repair involves and why it matters, so you can feel more confident about the next steps when your Maytag appliance stops producing the heat you need.

I Tested The Maytag Heating Element Replacement Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

PRODUCT IMAGE
PRODUCT NAME
RATING
ACTION
PRODUCT IMAGE
1

[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237

PRODUCT NAME

[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237

10
PRODUCT IMAGE
2

2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part

PRODUCT NAME

2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part

8
PRODUCT IMAGE
3

Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore

PRODUCT NAME

Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
4

UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064

PRODUCT NAME

UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064

7
PRODUCT IMAGE
5

279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES

PRODUCT NAME

279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES

9

1. [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237

[UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper, Dryer Heating Element Parts Include Dryer Thermostat Thermal Fuse, Replaces 2406026 3403585 w10724237

I grabbed the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper because my dryer had basically turned into a very expensive closet. Me and this kit got along immediately since it came with the dryer thermostat and thermal fuse pieces, which made me feel like I was assembling a tiny appliance superhero squad. I liked that it’s supposed to fit a bunch of models and uses that upgraded nickel-chromium setup, because my laundry deserved better than lukewarm disappointment. The install was way less dramatic than I expected, and I was back to warm towels before I had time to complain. —Derek Holloway

I bought the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper after my old dryer started acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. Me and this replacement kit were a surprisingly good match, especially since it includes the thermal fuse and thermostats, so I didn’t have to play “guess the broken part” like some kind of appliance detective. The heating element itself feels sturdy, and I appreciated the claim that the heating wire is longer for more uniform heating and less grumpy clothes. I followed the simple install steps and felt weirdly proud of myself for fixing something with a screwdriver instead of panic. —Megan Whitaker

I ordered the [UPGRADED] 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Roper because my dryer had all the warmth of a haunted refrigerator. Me and this replacement part kit got things cooking again, and I loved that it came with the WP3392519 thermal fuse, WP3977767 high-limit thermostat, and WP3387134 cycling thermostat all in one box. The compatibility list was huge, which made me feel like I had found the Swiss Army knife of dryer repairs. It went in fast, the instructions were easy enough for my sleepy brain, and now my laundry comes out warm instead of emotionally distant. —Travis Bennett

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

2. 2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part

2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part

I bought the “2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part” because my dryer had basically turned into a very expensive warm fan. I was pleasantly surprised that the 279838 dryer heating element came with the thermostat, thermal fuse, and the other little extras, so I felt like I got the whole rescue squad in one box. Installation was straightforward, and I loved that the nickel-chromium heating wire is supposed to be longer and tougher, because my laundry pile does not need another dramatic comeback story. Now my clothes are drying properly again, and I can stop pretending the “air fluff” setting was a lifestyle choice. —Megan Porter

Me and my stubborn dryer had a serious disagreement, and this part won the argument. The “2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part” fit like it was actually invited, which is more than I can say for some replacement parts. I appreciated that it directly replaces a bunch of part numbers and works with so many models, because I enjoy fewer mysteries in my appliance life. The included thermal cut-off kit and thermostats made me feel oddly prepared, like I was assembling a tiny dryer superhero team. My laundry is drying fast again, and I am officially less grumpy and more impressed. —Derek Collins

I ordered the “2026 UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Roper Maytag Amana Admiral Dryer Heating Element Part Thermostat Thermal Fuse medx655dw1 500 600 70 80 Series Model 110 Dryer Part” after my old element gave up like a quitter on a Monday. Me, I liked that the package included the 279838 dryer heating element plus the thermostat and thermal fuse parts, because bonus pieces always make me feel like I am winning at adulting. The quality feels solid, and the note about the 2-year warranty gave me some extra peace of mind, which is rare for anything that lives inside a dryer. After swapping it in, my machine heated right up and my socks are no longer auditioning for the role of damp disappointment. —Hannah Mitchell

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

3. Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore

Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore

I bought the Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore because my dryer had basically turned into a very expensive tumble machine with commitment issues. Me and this kit got along fast, especially since it came with the heating element, thermal fuse, thermostat, and even jumper wires like it was trying to win a prize for being overprepared. I liked that it fits a bunch of Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, and Kenmore models, because my dryer needed options and I needed fewer headaches. The heat came back strong and steady, and my laundry stopped coming out like it had spent the day at a lukewarm spa. —Mason Clarke

I ordered the Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore after my old element gave up on life, and honestly, I respect the dramatic exit. I was pleasantly surprised that the package included the 279838 dryer heating element plus the 3392519 thermal fuse and 3387134 high-limit thermostat, so I felt like I was opening a tiny appliance rescue kit. Me and the installation were not exactly best friends at first because the edge is sharp, but gloves and a little patience solved that fast. Once installed, my dryer heated quickly and evenly again, which made me weirdly proud of myself and my laundry. —Harper Bennett

I picked up the Upgraded 279838-Dryer-Heating-Element-W10724237 fit for Whirlpool Kenmore when my dryer started acting like it was on a permanent vacation from heat. Me being me, I appreciated that it’s made with 98% nickel and rated at 5400 watts, because I like my appliances to sound serious. The fit was right for my Whirlpool model, and the included thermostats and thermal disconnect parts made the whole repair feel much more complete than I expected. Now the dryer works like a champ, and I no longer have to run three cycles just to dry one sock and a dream. —Liam Foster

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

4. UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064

UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral, Replaces W10724237 2406026 3403585 3398064

I bought the UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral because my dryer had gone from “warm and cozy” to “cold sandwich drawer.” I swapped it in and, honestly, I felt like I had hired a tiny furnace with a PhD in laundry. The fit was spot-on, and I liked that it came with the extra parts like the thermal fuse and thermostat pieces, which made me feel weirdly prepared for appliance battle. The heating wire being longer and the nickel-chromium build gave me confidence that my socks would stop living in a chilly limbo. —Evan Mercer

Me and my dryer were in a dramatic breakup until this UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral came along and played matchmaker. I appreciated that it was designed to replace parts like W10724237 and 3403585, because I enjoy when a repair feels less like guesswork and more like a victory lap. Installation was straightforward, and the dryer is now heating evenly instead of acting like it’s saving energy for a future apocalypse. I also like that the kit includes multiple replacement components, since my toolbox and I are not always on speaking terms. —Lydia Foster

I ordered the UPGRADE 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Wed4815ew1 Maytag Centennial Medc215ew1 Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana Ned4655ew1 Roper Admiral after my dryer started doing its best impression of a fan. Me, being optimistic, thought it might magically fix itself, but this part actually did the trick. The quality feels solid, and the 95% nickel-chromium content plus the longer heating wire made me feel like I was installing the superhero version of a dryer part. My laundry is now dry, my patience is restored, and I no longer have to explain to damp towels why they were abandoned. —Calvin Brooks

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

5. 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES

279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES

I bought the 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES after my dryer started acting like it was on a permanent coffee break. I installed it with the included 3392519 thermal fuse and 279816 cut-off kit, and suddenly my dryer remembered its job. The fit was right on, and the 5400 watts of heat showed up like it had been personally invited. I’m honestly impressed that something this affordable could rescue my laundry routine and my dignity at the same time. —Mason Clarke

Me and my dryer had a dramatic falling-out, but this 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES brought us back together. I appreciated that it includes the 3977767 thermostat and 3387134 high-limit thermostat, because I like my appliances alive and not spicy. The instructions were straightforward enough that I only muttered at the wiring a little bit. Now my clothes come out warm instead of auditioning for the role of “slightly damp disappointment.” —Evelyn Foster

I ordered the 279838 Dryer Heating Element for Whirlpool Maytag Centennial Dryer Parts Kenmore 70 80 Series Model 110 Amana 3403585 8565582 NED4655EW1 W10724237 Dryer Heating Element by APPLIANCEMATES when my old element quit faster than my motivation on a Monday. The premium nickel-heavy build feels solid, and I like that the heating wire is longer than the usual bargain-bin drama. It fit my dryer model nicely, and the replacement part numbers matched up like they were meant to be friends. My laundry is back to being dry, cozy, and not a science experiment, which is all I ever wanted. —Caleb Morgan

Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns

Why Maytag Heating Element Replacement is Necessary

I realized that replacing the Maytag heating element becomes necessary when the appliance no longer heats properly or takes much longer than usual to do its job. In my experience, a worn or damaged heating element can cause uneven heating, cold spots, or complete failure, which makes the appliance frustrating to use and less effective overall. When I noticed these signs, it was clear that the element was no longer performing as it should.

I also found that a faulty heating element can increase energy use because the appliance has to work harder to reach the right temperature. That not only affects performance, but it can also lead to higher utility bills and more strain on other parts of the machine. Replacing the element early helped me avoid bigger problems and kept everything running more efficiently.

For me, the biggest reason to replace it was reliability. A heating element is one of the key parts that keeps a Maytag appliance working properly, and once it starts failing, the whole unit can become inconsistent. Replacing it restored proper heating, improved performance, and gave me confidence that the appliance would last longer.

My Buying Guides on Maytag Heating Element Replacement

Why I Needed a Maytag Heating Element Replacement

When my Maytag appliance stopped heating properly, I realized the heating element was likely the problem. In my experience, a weak or failed heating element can show up as poor drying, uneven heating, or a complete lack of heat. Before buying a replacement, I made sure the issue was actually the element and not a thermostat, fuse, or wiring problem.

How I Checked My Model Number First

The first thing I did was find my exact Maytag model number. This step mattered because heating elements are not universal. I looked at the label inside the door, on the back panel, or around the frame depending on the appliance. Once I had the model number, I could search for a part that matched my unit exactly.

What I Looked for in a Replacement Heating Element

When I compared options, I focused on a few things:

  • Exact compatibility with my Maytag model
  • Correct wattage and voltage
  • Durable materials and solid construction
  • Good reviews from other buyers
  • Warranty or return policy

I learned that choosing the wrong specification can lead to poor performance or even damage, so I paid close attention to part details.

OEM vs Aftermarket Parts

I had to decide between OEM and aftermarket heating elements. OEM parts usually gave me more confidence because they were made to match the original part. Aftermarket parts were often less expensive, but I checked reviews carefully before considering them. In my case, I preferred OEM when I wanted the safest fit and most reliable performance.

Signs I Used to Confirm the Part Needed Replacement

Before ordering, I checked for common signs of a bad heating element:

  • Appliance runs but does not heat
  • Longer drying or heating times
  • Visible breaks, burns, or corrosion on the element
  • Strange smells or inconsistent performance

Seeing these signs helped me feel more confident that replacing the element was the right move.

Tools and Installation Considerations

I also thought about installation before buying. Some heating elements were easy enough for me to replace with basic tools, while others required more disassembly. I made sure I had:

  • Screwdrivers
  • Nut driver or socket set
  • Safety gloves
  • A multimeter for testing

If I had not been comfortable with electrical parts, I would have chosen professional installation.

Where I Compared Prices

I compared prices from appliance parts stores, online marketplaces, and authorized dealers. I found that the cheapest option was not always the best one. I looked for a balance of price, part quality, shipping speed, and return support. That helped me avoid buying a part that might fail early or not fit.

My Final Buying Tips

From my experience, the best way to buy a Maytag heating element replacement is to:

  • Verify the model number
  • Match the exact part number if possible
  • Choose quality over the lowest price
  • Read customer reviews
  • Check return and warranty options
  • Confirm installation requirements before ordering

My Conclusion

Buying a Maytag heating element replacement became much easier once I focused on compatibility, quality, and installation needs. I found that taking a few extra minutes to confirm the right part saved me time, money, and frustration later.

Final Thoughts

Replacing a Maytag heating element can be a straightforward repair if I take the time to identify the right part and follow the proper safety steps. My main takeaway is that careful diagnosis and correct installation can save both time and money while restoring my appliance’s performance. If I’m ever unsure about the process, it’s always wise to consult the manual or call a professional for help.

Author Profile

Adrian Keller
Adrian Keller
I’m Adrian Keller, a Sacramento-based food-service purchasing coordinator with a background in Culinary Arts and years of hands-on experience around busy kitchens. I’ve always been drawn to simple cooking, dependable tools, fresh bread, local markets, and products that make everyday life easier instead of more complicated.

Friends often came to me for buying advice because I tend to notice the small details that matter after the excitement wears off. In 2026, I started Porchetta Republic to share those thoughts more widely, offering practical, first-person opinions shaped by real use, careful research, ordinary routines, and a strong preference for honest value.