Is it hard to change a heating element in a dryer?

Question

my dryer won't put off any heat...everything else works fine.....so I believe its the heating element.......or if you have any ideas on what else it may be

Answer 1

Gizmoe is right. It also could be that the dryer is not getting 220 volts. The dryer will run but not heat if its only getting 110 volts. Check the breakers for the dryer and reset them. If still no heat, it may be any one of those things that Giz mentioned including a burned wire to the element.

Your husband should have no trouble isolating the problem if he is an electrician. There should be a wiring diagram where the timer is behind the panel.

If it is an element, the difficulty will depend on the brand. Some are easier to change than others. Average part cost of an element is between $25-$75 not including labor.

Answer 2

It is most likely going to be a thermal fuse or switch, they cost about 10-15 bucks. There may be more that 2 or 3 of them. And as someone else answered above, can be checked very quickly with a voltage meter. While you have the covers of make sure you blow out or vacuum all the dryer lint out, that can actually cause the swithes to go out. I repaired my dryer for 20$. Also check the Wires that attach to the switched they can corrode and arc. Easily fixed, Good Luck

Answer 3

you dont smell gas do you?  it shouldnt be leaking.

Answer 4

At the least someone with electrical knowledge and a voltmeter can isolate the problem.

It may be the heating element but could be the timer or a limit switch.

Guessing will only cost you time and money.