The heating element in your dryer generates the heat needed to dry your laundry. Over time, wear and tear may damage this component or cause it to stop functioning altogether. If your Speed Queen dryer isn’t heating up properly, takes too long to dry clothes, or shows visible signs of damage, it may be time to replace the heating element.
With a few basic tools, a replacement part, and careful preparation, you can complete this repair yourself. Follow the steps below to restore your dryer to full working order.
Common Causes of Heating Element Failure
Understanding why the heating element failed can help prevent future issues:
- Overloading the dryer: Excessive loads can strain the heating element and cause premature wear.
- Lint buildup: Accumulated lint in the dryer’s vents or interior can trap heat, leading to overheating and damage.
- Power surges: Electrical spikes can harm internal components, including the heating element.
- Age and wear: Regular use over time naturally degrades the heating element’s efficiency.
Signs Your Heating Element Needs Replacement
Before replacing the heating element, confirm that the issue lies with this component. Common signs include:
- The dryer is not producing any heat.
- Laundry takes significantly longer to dry.
- The heating element shows visible damage, such as breaks or burn marks.
- Circuit breakers trip frequently when the dryer is in use.
What You’ll Need
- Replacement heating element (Confirm compatibility with your specific Speed Queen dryer model.)
- 1/4-inch nut driver
Safety Precautions
Prioritize safety when working on any appliance. Keep these guidelines in mind before starting:
- Disconnect the power supply: Unplug the dryer or switch off its circuit breaker to eliminate the risk of electrical shock.
- Allow the appliance to cool down: If the dryer has been in use, let it cool completely before handling.
- Work deliberately and carefully: Avoid rushing to reduce the risk of accidents or damage to the appliance.
- Use good visibility: Work in a well-lit area for easier access and better visibility of components.
- Keep a clear work area: Organize tools and parts, and keep children and pets away from the workspace.
- Handle parts with care: Be gentle to avoid damaging components or injuring yourself.
- Protect your hands: Wear insulated gloves to guard against sharp edges or debris.
- Avoid working with wet hands: Make sure the workspace and your hands are dry before handling electrical components.
- Document connections: Take photos or notes of wiring and terminal connections to simplify reassembly.
How to Replace the Heating Element in a Speed Queen Dryer
Prepare for the Replacement
- Unplug the dryer from the power outlet.
- Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the two screws at the bottom of the front access panel.
- Remove the two screws, one in each bottom corner, on the upper panel of the front of the dryer.
- Rotate the bottom panel outward to about 45 degrees and move it downward to remove it.
- Take a picture of the door switch wiring for later reference.
- Disconnect the door switch wires and set the panel aside.
Access the Heating Element
- Remove the four screws securing the front bulkhead to the frame.
- Lift the bulkhead slightly to clear any tabs, move it downward, and set it aside.
- Remove the belt from the motor.
- Use the belt to assist in pulling the drum out and set the drum aside.
- Locate the heating element at the back left side of the dryer.
Replace the Heating Element
- Unscrew the 1/4-inch screws holding the high-limit thermostat and thermal fuse to the heating element to move them off the housing.
- Remove the 1/4-inch screws securing the old heating element and move it out of the way.
- Install the new heating element and secure it with screws.
- Transfer the high-limit thermostat, thermal fuse, and wires from the old element to the new one.
Reassemble the Dryer
- Reinstall the drum and belt so the drum rests securely on the back rollers.
- Reattach the front bulkhead and secure it with the 1/4-inch screws.
- Reconnect the wires to the top front panel.
- Angle the top front panel toward the dryer’s top panel, rotate it into place and secure it with screws.
- Hook the bottom front panel back in place and secure it with the final screws.
- Plug the dryer back in.
- Test the dryer to confirm the new heating element works correctly.
When to Call a Professional
While replacing the heating element is a straightforward repair, some situations may require professional help:
- If the dryer has additional issues, such as strange noises or irregular drum movement.
- If you’re uncomfortable working with electrical components or accessing internal parts.
- If the problem persists after replacing the heating element.
A technician can diagnose and resolve complex problems to get your dryer back in optimal condition.
Fixing such an important appliance yourself can feel pretty rewarding. On top of that, knowing how the dryer’s heating element works and what causes it to fail can help you avoid similar problems down the line.
Of course, you don’t need to become an expert overnight. If things don’t go as planned or other issues come up, it’s okay to call a professional for help. A working dryer keeps your household running smoothly, and whether you fix it yourself or bring in some help, getting it back to full function will save you time, hassle, and money.