How do I tell what model my Kenmore dryer is?
Your Kenmore dryer’s model number is printed on the model and serial number label; on Kenmore model 11078722700, that label is located at the top inside the dryer door well. Once you have the full model number, we can match the correct parts and specifications.
Where to look for the model number label
Check these common spots first (in this order):
- Top inside the dryer door well (most common on Kenmore 110-series dryers)
- Inside the door opening on the cabinet frame
- On the back panel (rear of the dryer)
- Near the lint screen housing (some designs)
For the exact label location and how it’s referenced in the documentation, use the 11078722700 owner's manual.
What the model number looks like (and why it matters)
Kenmore model numbers are usually all digits. For this dryer, the model number is 11078722700.
Quick guide
| What you see | What it tells us | Why we need it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number (example: 11078722700) | Exact dryer design family | Ensures correct parts fit |
| Serial number | Production sequence/date code | Helps with version changes |
| Purchase date (if known) | When it was bought | Useful for service history |
Tips to avoid ordering the wrong part
Before you buy a belt, thermostat, switch, or timer, we recommend:
- Write the model number exactly as shown (all digits, no spaces)
- Copy the serial number too (it can matter for part variations)
- Match parts by model, not by appearance
- If you’re troubleshooting, confirm symptoms first (no heat, no start, noisy drum)
Why it matters
Kenmore dryers can look nearly identical across different model numbers, but internal parts like the drive system, door switch, and thermostats can vary. Using the full model number keeps your repair accurate and prevents returns.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the average lifespan of 11078722700?
A Kenmore dryer like model 11078722700 typically lasts 13 years with normal household use and routine vent and lint maintenance. Keeping airflow strong and replacing worn drum-support parts on time are the biggest factors in reaching that lifespan.
What affects lifespan the most
- Venting: long runs, crushed ducting, or lint buildup make the dryer run hotter and longer
- Load habits: frequent overloading strains the drive motor and drum support system
- Heat system condition: weak ignition or cycling issues increase run time
- Maintenance: cleaning the lint screen and exhaust path prevents overheating
- Wear items: rollers, idler pulley, and seals wear gradually and get noisy before failing
Maintenance checklist (best payoff)
- Clean the lint screen every load; replace a damaged screen if it does not sit flat (screen W10120998)
- Inspect and clean the exhaust duct and outside hood regularly
- Listen for squealing, thumping, or rumbling; those are early signs of drum support wear
- If drying times increase, check airflow first before replacing heat parts
Typical lifespan by component (common wear items)
| Component | Typical service life | Common symptom |
|---|---|---|
| Idler pulley and belt system | 5 to 10 years | Squeal, belt slip, drum not turning |
| Blower wheel | 7 to 12 years | Rattle, weak airflow |
| Thermostats/sensors | 8 to 15 years | Overheating or no heat cycling |
| Drive motor | 10 to 15 years | Hums, won’t start, intermittent run |
Why it matters
A dryer that is forced to run with restricted airflow or worn drum support parts runs hotter and longer; that shortens the life of the motor, thermostats, and gas ignition components.
For model-specific care and cleaning intervals, follow the owner's manual.
Last updated: March 2026
What replacement parts are most commonly needed for the 11078722700?
For Kenmore dryer model 11078722700, the most commonly replaced parts are the drum support and drive items, door start/safety switches, and heat/airflow safety components. These parts wear with normal use and often show symptoms like noise, no-start, or long dry times.
Most common replacement parts (and what they fix)
- Dryer repair kit 4392067: common wear set for drum support and drive components (often used to address squealing, thumping, or poor drum rotation)
- Dryer idler pulley 279640: fixes squealing and helps keep proper belt tension
- Dryer door switch WP3406107: fixes “won’t start” when the door is closed (no door-closed signal)
- Dryer push-to-start switch WP3977456: fixes a dead start button or intermittent starting
- Dryer operating thermostat WP3387134: helps correct overheating or poor temperature control
- Dryer high-limit thermostat W11050897: safety cutoff; often replaced after overheating events
- Dryer blower wheel WP697772: restores airflow when the wheel is cracked, stripped, or noisy
Quick symptom-to-part guide
| Symptom | Most likely area | Parts to check first |
|---|---|---|
| Squealing or thumping | Drum support/drive | 4392067, 279640 |
| Dryer won’t start | Door/start circuit | WP3406107, WP3977456 |
| Long dry times | Airflow/blower | WP697772, exhaust ducting |
| Overheats or shuts off | Temperature safety | WP3387134, W11050897 |
How we recommend confirming the right part
- Match the symptom first (noise, no-start, no heat, long dry time)
- Use the model diagrams to locate the exact component position
- Replace airflow-restriction causes before replacing heat parts
- If multiple wear items are involved, a kit is usually the most efficient repair
Why it matters
Replacing the correct wear part early prevents secondary damage (for example, a failing idler pulley can damage the belt and strain the drive motor).
For model-specific diagnostics and access steps, use the installation guide. If you are troubleshooting a no-heat condition, the gas dryer wont heat troubleshooting video is a solid walkthrough.
Last updated: March 2026





