How to Replace a Tumble Dryer Heater Element
If your dryer tumbles but does not heat and airflow is good, the heater assembly may need replacing.
Get a Confirmed Fit spare part
At Spares2Repair, when a spare part is matched to your exact model number we call that Confirmed Fit. Because spare parts can vary across production runs, sizes, and revisions, Confirmed Fit is the safest route to reduce wrong-part orders and buy with more confidence.
Start with the search box whenever you have the full model number. Use Fixit Fox Finder if the rating plate is hard to read or you want guided help before ordering. Ordering by appearance alone is more likely to lead to the wrong part.
Browse Tumble Dryer spare partsWhat Confirmed Fit meansContact customer service
Before you order, use Confirmed Fit
For advice and repair topics like this one, the biggest buying mistake is ordering on appearance alone. Search by the exact model number wherever possible, because small appliance revisions can use different seals, filters, motors, pumps, lamps, shelves, or trims.
At a Glance
- This replacement guide is for a typical tumble dryer repair and exact access can vary by model.
- Use your model number to confirm the correct spare before ordering.
- Estimated time: 30-90 minutes.
Safety First
Disconnect power before starting. Turn off water supplies where relevant and wear gloves around sharp metal panels. Take a photo of wire positions and hose routing before disconnecting anything.
Tools You May Need
- Screwdriver set
- Socket or nut driver
- Multimeter
- Torch
- Vacuum or brush
Step-by-Step Overview
- Disconnect the appliance and clean out lint before beginning.
- Remove the appropriate panel to access the heater housing.
- Photograph wiring and thermostat positions.
- Disconnect terminals and remove the heater assembly or heater plate as designed.
- Transfer any sensors or thermostats only if the replacement requires it and it is correct to do so.
- Refit the new heater, reconnect wiring, and clean nearby airflow passages before testing.
Parts and Checks Before Reassembly
- Always clear lint build-up because poor airflow can quickly damage a new heater.
- Match the heater by model number because wattage, shape, and thermostat arrangement vary.
- If cut-outs have operated, fix the airflow problem before running the dryer again.
FAQ
How do I know this repair is relevant to my appliance?
If your dryer tumbles but does not heat and airflow is good, the heater assembly may need replacing.
Do I need the full model number before ordering the replacement part?
Use the full model number exactly as shown on the rating plate. When Spares2Repair matches that model to a compatible part we call it Confirmed Fit. Similar-looking parts can differ across revisions, production runs, and variants, so model matching is the safest route before ordering.
What should I check before stripping the appliance down?
Confirm the fault symptoms first, isolate the appliance safely, and make sure the replacement part is model-matched before taking the appliance apart any further.
