How to Test a Dryer Element
If you notice that your clothes dryer is taking longer to dry your clothes, or it does not seem to be drying them at all, you might have a faulty or broken heating element. The heating element is designed to moderate the temperature of the dryer and send a signal through to tell whether the dryer needs more heat, or when the heat should be shut off. You can test the heating element in your dryer in just a few minutes and determine for yourself whether the element needs to be replaced. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Unplug the electrical cord that runs from your dryer to the wall outlet. Turn off the gas line valve if you have a gas dryer.
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2
Lift the lint filter cover on the top of the dryer and remove the lint filter. Unfasten the screws that are just underneath the cover with a screwdriver.
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3
Slide a putty knife under the top of the dryer on the side at about 2 inches from the front of the unit. Locate the clip that is between the top and the side panel.
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4
Push down on the clip with the putty knife and pull up on the top of the dryer to dislodge. Repeat this step for the opposite side.
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5
Lift the top up and lean it back against a wall, then locate the heating element on your dryer. Refer to your owner's manual for the exact location of the heating element on your model dryer.
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Set your voltage meter to the Rx1 resistance setting. Touch the probe to the contact points on the heating element.
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Read the voltage meter. If you get a reading of infinite resistance or no reading at all, the heating element is bad and needs to be replaced.
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Tips & Warnings
Never attempt to remove the top of the dryer and test the heating element with the electricity or gas source still on.
