Samsung Dryer Element Failing? Fix it Yourself! (Easy)

Replacing Your Samsung Dryer Heating Element: A Simple Guide

Is your Samsung dryer blowing cold air? Chances are, the heating element has failed. Fortunately, replacing your Samsung dryer heating element is a manageable DIY project. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step.

1. Is It Really the Heating Element? Troubleshooting First

Before diving in, confirm the heating element is truly the culprit. Other issues can mimic a failed heating element.

• Check the Circuit Breaker: This is the most basic step. Ensure the dryer’s circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Reset it and try running the dryer again.

• Inspect the Vent: A clogged vent restricts airflow, which can cause the dryer to overheat and shut off the heating element prematurely.

  • Visually inspect the vent hose behind the dryer.
  • Clean the lint trap thoroughly.
  • Consider having your vent system professionally cleaned.

• Thermal Fuse: The thermal fuse is a safety device that blows when the dryer overheats. It’s often located near the heating element. A blown thermal fuse will prevent the dryer from heating.

  • Locate the thermal fuse (consult your dryer’s manual).
  • Test the fuse for continuity using a multimeter. A lack of continuity indicates a blown fuse that needs replacing. This is a common failure point so test it before replacing the heating element.

• Thermostat: Another safety component, the thermostat regulates the temperature inside the dryer drum. A faulty thermostat can prevent the heating element from activating.

  • Locate the thermostat near the heating element.
  • Test the thermostat for continuity using a multimeter (while dryer is cool, not running). Replace if there’s no continuity.

2. Gathering Your Tools and Safety Precautions

Safety is paramount! Before you start replacing your Samsung dryer heating element, ensure you have the necessary tools and understand the safety precautions.

2.1 Essential Tools

• Screwdrivers: Both Phillips head and flathead screwdrivers are usually needed.
• Nut Driver or Socket Set: The size needed will vary based on your dryer model, but a basic set will cover most cases.
• Pliers: For disconnecting wires. Needle-nose pliers can be particularly helpful.
• Multimeter: For testing continuity (as mentioned above).
• Work Gloves: To protect your hands.
• Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
• Vacuum Cleaner: To clean up lint and debris inside the dryer.
• New Samsung Dryer Heating Element: Ensure it is the correct part number for your specific Samsung dryer model!

2.2 Safety First!

• Unplug the Dryer: Always disconnect the dryer from the power outlet before working on it. This is the most crucial safety step.
• Turn Off the Gas Supply (If Applicable): If you have a gas dryer, turn off the gas supply valve before starting.
• Work in a Well-Ventilated Area: This is especially important for gas dryers.
• Take Pictures: As you disassemble the dryer, take pictures of the wiring and component locations. This will help you reassemble everything correctly.

3. Accessing the Heating Element

The exact procedure for accessing the heating element may vary slightly depending on your specific Samsung dryer model, but the general steps are usually the same.

3.1 Disconnecting the Dryer Vent and Moving the Dryer

• Carefully disconnect the dryer vent from the back of the dryer.
• Gently pull the dryer away from the wall, providing enough space to work behind it.

3.2 Removing the Back Panel

• Locate and remove the screws securing the back panel of the dryer.
• Carefully remove the back panel. You may need to gently pry it off if it’s stuck.

3.3 Identifying the Heating Element Housing

• The heating element housing is typically a metal box located near the bottom of the dryer. It’s usually rectangular or square.

4. Replacing the Heating Element

Now comes the crucial step of replacing your Samsung dryer heating element.

4.1 Disconnecting the Wires

• Before disconnecting any wires, take a picture of how they are connected to the heating element. This will be invaluable during reassembly.
• Using pliers, carefully disconnect the wires from the heating element terminals.

4.2 Removing the Old Heating Element

• Locate and remove the screws holding the heating element housing in place.
• Carefully slide the heating element housing out of the dryer.
• Remove the screws securing the heating element to the housing.
• Remove the old heating element.

4.3 Installing the New Heating Element

• Install the new heating element into the heating element housing and secure it with the screws you removed earlier.
• Slide the heating element housing back into the dryer and secure it with the screws.

4.4 Reconnecting the Wires

• Refer to the picture you took earlier and reconnect the wires to the heating element terminals, ensuring they are securely attached.

5. Reassembling the Dryer

With the new heating element in place, it’s time to reassemble the dryer.

5.1 Reattaching the Back Panel

• Carefully reattach the back panel and secure it with the screws.

5.2 Reconnecting the Dryer Vent and Moving the Dryer Back

• Reconnect the dryer vent to the back of the dryer.
• Gently push the dryer back into its original position.

6. Testing Your Work

Before putting your clothes in, test your handiwork to confirm you completed replacing your Samsung dryer heating element correctly.

6.1 Turn On the Dryer

• Plug the dryer back into the power outlet.
• If you have a gas dryer, turn the gas supply valve back on.

6.2 Start a Drying Cycle

• Start a drying cycle and check if the dryer is now producing heat.
• Monitor the dryer for a few minutes to ensure it’s operating correctly.

If the dryer is producing heat, congratulations! You have successfully replaced your Samsung dryer heating element. If not, double-check all your connections and refer back to the troubleshooting steps outlined earlier.

So, that’s how you do it! Replacing your Samsung dryer heating element might seem daunting at first, but with a little patience, you can save yourself some serious cash and get those clothes dry again. Happy fixing!