How much does it cost to replace a heating element in a Kenmore dryer?
For Kenmore dryer model 11086872800, replacing a heating element typically costs about $20 to $100 for the part, and about $150 to $350+ total if you hire a technician (labor and service call included). Costs vary most by dryer type and what else is replaced during the repair.
What makes the total cost go up or down
- Dryer type: Electric dryers use a heating element; gas dryers heat with a burner system (different parts and pricing).
- What failed: A no-heat problem can also be a thermal cut-off, wiring issue, or airflow restriction.
- Bundled repairs: Techs often replace related safety parts at the same time.
- Access and time: Some dryers take longer to disassemble and reassemble.
- Vent condition: A clogged vent can overheat the heater area and cause repeat failures.
Parts you may also need (common with no-heat repairs)
If your 11086872800 has heat issues, these related parts are often checked or replaced along with the heater circuit:
- Cut-off 279769 (thermal cut-off fuse kit)
- Dryer heating element wire kit 279457 (burned or loose heater wiring)
- Dryer blower wheel WP694089 (airflow problems that can contribute to overheating)
Typical cost breakdown
| Scenario | What you pay for | Typical total |
|---|---|---|
| DIY, heater only | Part + basic tools | $20 to $100 |
| DIY, heater plus safety parts | Heater + thermal cut-off and/or wiring | $50 to $150 |
| Professional repair | Parts + labor + service call | $150 to $350+ |
Why it matters
A dryer that is not heating is often an airflow and safety-circuit problem, not just the heater itself. Fixing the root cause (lint buildup, crushed vent, weak airflow) helps prevent repeat heater or thermal cut-off failures.
Helpful DIY reading
Last updated: January 2026
How to reset a Kenmore Elite dryer?
For Kenmore model 11086872800, a reset is a simple power cycle: unplug the dryer (or switch the breaker off) for 2 to 5 minutes, then restore power and start a timed cycle. If the dryer still will not run, the issue is usually a safety device trip or an airflow problem, not a “reset” setting.
Quick reset steps (works for most Kenmore dryers)
- Turn the dryer OFF.
- Unplug the power cord (or turn the breaker OFF).
- Wait 2 to 5 minutes.
- Restore power.
- Select Timed Dry and press Start.
- If the controls are locked, press and hold the Control Lock button (if your console has one) for about 3 seconds.
If it still will not start after a reset
These checks solve the most common “needs reset” complaints:
- Confirm the door fully closes and the door switch clicks; a failed door switch can prevent starting.
- Check the house power: electric dryers typically need 240V (two breakers); a half-tripped breaker can make the dryer act dead.
- Clean lint from the lint screen area and venting; restricted airflow can trip high-limit safety devices.
- If the dryer runs but has weak airflow or a rumbling noise, inspect the blower wheel for damage or looseness.
- If the motor hums but the drum will not turn, inspect the belt and idler pulley.
Common symptoms and what they usually mean
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What we recommend checking first |
|---|---|---|
| No lights, no response | Power supply issue | Breaker, outlet, cord |
| Lights on, will not start | Door circuit or safety device | Door switch, door strike alignment |
| Hums, drum does not turn | Drive system problem | Belt, idler pulley |
| Runs but poor drying | Airflow restriction | Vent, lint chute, blower wheel |
Parts that commonly relate to “won’t start” or “won’t run”
If testing points to a failed component, these are common matches for this Kenmore dryer platform:
- Dryer door switch W10820036 (door circuit)
- Belt 341241 (drum drive)
- Dryer idler pulley WP691366 (belt tension)
- Motor 279827 (drive motor)
- Cut-off 279769 (overheat protection)
Why it matters
A reset only clears a temporary control glitch. If airflow is restricted or a safety device has opened, the dryer can keep shutting down until the venting is cleaned or the failed part is replaced.
Last updated: January 2026
What is the AF code on a Kenmore Elite Oasis dryer?
On Kenmore dryers, “AF” is used as an airflow warning on some display-equipped models; it points to restricted exhaust airflow (lint screen, lint chute, vent hose, or outside hood). For Kenmore model 11086872800 specifically, focus on restoring strong vent airflow first because airflow problems cause long dry times and overheating symptoms.
What “AF” is telling you
“AF” is an airflow-related alert, not a failed motor or belt code. The dryer is sensing poor exhaust flow, which makes moisture removal slow and can raise internal temperatures.
Fix it in this order (fastest wins first)
- Clean the lint screen before every load; if it looks clean but blocks air, wash it with warm water and a soft brush, then dry it.
- Pull the dryer out and check the vent hose for kinks, crushing, or excessive length.
- Check the outside vent hood; confirm the damper opens fully while the dryer runs.
- Clear lint from the lint chute area inside the cabinet if airflow is still weak.
- Run Timed Dry for 5 to 10 minutes and verify strong airflow at the outside hood.
Parts that can contribute to airflow restriction
If you find lint buildup or damaged ducting inside the dryer, these model-compatible parts are commonly involved:
- Dryer lint chute assembly W11117429 (guides lint and air from the lint screen area into the blower housing)
- Dryer blower wheel WP694089 (moves air through the drum and out the vent; damage reduces airflow)
Quick symptom guide
| Symptom | Most common cause | What we do next |
|---|---|---|
| Long dry times | Vent restriction | Clean and shorten vent run; clear outside hood |
| Dryer feels unusually hot | Poor exhaust flow | Correct venting before running more loads |
| Shuts off mid-cycle | Overheat protection opening | Fix airflow first, then check thermal components |
| Weak air at outside hood | Blocked vent or blower issue | Clear venting; inspect blower wheel and lint chute |
Why it matters
Restricted airflow wastes energy, increases drying time, and overheats the heater housing and drum area. Correcting venting and lint-path restrictions prevents repeat shutdowns and protects heat and safety components.
For more code context across Kenmore dryer lines, use our Kenmore oasis dryer error codes reference.
Last updated: January 2026





