I'm a single mom and my heating element went out on my dryer. Is this something I could fix myself?

Answer 1

I think so. Look up the maker of the dryer and get instructions on the Internet. My husband had to replace everything on our dryer and it turned out brand new on the inside and worked perfect. It was so much cheaper than a new dryer. Just find out the correct model number, etc. and look instructions up. If you have trouble, click on my name and email me and I'll try to look it up for you.

If you have to end up buying a new one, you can request the ones referred to as "scratch and dent" models. They may look ugly on the outside from being on the floor in the store, but are new on the inside, and cheaper.

Good luck

Answer 2

The problem may not be the element, could be a fuse or other device which disables the dryer if it draws too much current. In any event the problem is probably not a consequence of your marital status. Unless you have experience in or a particular aptitude for repairing electrical major appliances, call a repair service.

The expense of replacement of an element may be about the same as that of purchasing a a new dryer. Frequently appliance repair people are associated with sources of used refurbished appliances. Talk with a repairman rather than a receptionist/work order preparer, explain what's happening, answer his/her questions, see what advice you can get (without charge) on the phone.

Since your reference to single motherhood is probably a reference to limited financial resources, determine the expense of all options before you engage services. Enlist the assistance of a knowledgeable acquaintance or relative in determining the best option. Dryer installation requires merely a method of transporting the dryer to your residence, a hand truck or appliance dolly, connecting the vent hose, and inserting a plug into a receptacle...not technically daunting. A barter, such as a sumptuous meal, may be attractive to someone who can do the install, and will be more economically feasible for you, particularly since you can ill afford doing without a dryer.

Answer 3

Don't forget to check for a fuse in the back of the dryer first. I thought mine was out and it was just the fuse. It does not look like an ordinary fuse for other applications but it did have to be replaced. I actually bypassed the fuse to make the dryer work until I got a new one for about five dollars at an appliance store. If your for sure the element is out then sure you can fix it yourself. Just a little common sense of taking something apart and putting it back together will get you back drying again. All you need is the model number and maybe serial number that is located inside the door or on the rear on a plate and a few hand tools.

Answer 4

If it is a burned out element and not the thermostat, probably so.
Just unplug the dryer & remove the front bottom panel.
Most dryers have an easily openable panel on the front/bottom so you can clean them out.
The heating element may or may not be accessible through the panel, but you might be able to see it.
Usually there is either a plug or screw at either end of the element.
Remove the old element, install the new one.
Make sure to get it positioned properly and so that nothing is touching it or close enough to catch fire.
Reassemble.
NOW plug it back in and try it.

Answer 5

It could be the heating coil but try these things first. You need to turn your dial clockwise every time and not backwards to reset/start it. Turning it around all the way properly sets the timer. You could have charred connections. While unplugged, check for burnt discolored wires at the connections inside the back. This would require replacing wires and possibly connectors. If you have a Multimeter you can measure the coil to see if it is good. It should be low around 50 to 200 ohms. Somewhere in that region depending on your dryer.

Answer 6

unless you are very handy with electrical appliances, you probably should not attempt to fix it yourself. Like most here said, check the vent for a clog, also check your breaker panel to make sure both breakers, ( dryers should have 2 ), are in the " ON " position and not tripped. The only other safe thing to do is call a qualified person to look at it. No sense you getting hurt needlessly, your safety is more important than dry clothes.

Answer 7

HI
You probably could but if you have to ask you probably shouldn't. Try to find a friend that is handy to help you. If not done correctly you could get hurt or cause a lot more damage. Dryers come apart in many different ways. There is not an easy way to explain it in a short email. Too bad service calls are so expensive, but sometimes are necessary.

Answer 8

First check your circuit breakers. The motor runs on 120V, but
240V is necessary to heat. Open the door and hold your finger
on the door switch and with the timer set to timed dry, turn it
on and watch the back inside to see if you see the heater come
on. If so then your duct is clogged. If not then call for repair
service - I dont think you will be able to do it yourself.
By the way, when you are running the machine with the door
open, make sure that the belt is turning. If not, then you probably
have to call for service anyway. Its not that easy for an
inexperienced person to replace.

Answer 9

Yes you can, if it's like my a whirlpool unplug it take the panel off the back. altho it may just be the switch that runs the heating element. that is what happened to mine. you usually can call a repair place and ask questions even take the part off and take it to where you plan on buying the new part and they will check it for free. or they do here where I live. I'm not very handy and I've changed parts on my washer and Dryer, Go for it you will be proud of yourself when you are finished.

Answer 10

Are you sure it's the heating element? If it is still heating, but not as good, the vent just might need cleaning. I just did this on mine.

Check out applianceguru.com. Lotsa cool help and link to parts ordering.