Warning about those new universal dryer heating elements from the big online parts store

I installed one of those 'fits all models' heating elements from PartsDirect on a Whirlpool dryer in a rental unit last Tuesday. The thing got WAY too hot, actually scorched a load of towels and tripped the thermal fuse after maybe 4 cycles. Learned the hard way that the universal ones can have different wattage ratings even if they physically fit. Anyone know a reliable brand for Whirlpool 110. parts that won't cook the clothes?

3 comments

3 Comments

linda_kelly171mo ago

Saw a YouTube repair guy rant about those universal heating coils. He said the resistance is often wrong for the specific dryer model, which controls the heat. You really need the exact OEM part number to be safe.

ryan6531mo ago

Totally agree with @linda_kelly17, those universal parts are a gamble. I tried one on my old dryer and it just cooked everything on low heat, completely useless.

kevin_roberts4125d ago

Funny you mention that YouTube guy, because I actually saw a similar video from a appliance repair channel a few months back. He tested three different universal heating elements on the same dryer model and two of them ran way hotter than spec. One element actually glowed red hot after like ten minutes which is definitely not normal. The guy said the problem is these cheap elements use thinner wire or a different alloy so the resistance is off and the heat output is unpredictable. For Whirlpool specifically he recommended sticking with the OEM part from a local supply house or ordering directly from Whirlpool's website. I know the OEM ones cost more but after hearing that I'd rather pay extra than deal with scorched laundry or a potential fire hazard.