Kenmore Elite 79680512900 dryer Parts

For Kenmore Elite dryer model 79680512900, the heating-element repair cost is usually the price of the part plus your time; if you hire service, labor typically becomes the biggest cost. For this model, the dryer heating element 5301EL1001J is a higher-priced component, so a professional repair often costs more than a basic element swap.

Typical cost breakdown (parts vs. labor)

Here’s what we see most often for electric-dryer heating repairs:

• DIY (part only): you pay for the heating element (and any related thermostats or wiring you choose to replace)
• Service call + labor: commonly 1 to 2 hours of labor plus a trip/service fee
• Extra parts sometimes needed: high-limit thermostat, blower thermostat, thermistor, or a damaged wire connector

Scenario	What you pay for	Typical total
DIY replacement	Heating element only	Often $100 to $300+ depending on the exact element/assembly
DIY “while you’re in there”	Element + one or two heat-safety parts	Often $150 to $350+
Professional repair	Parts + labor + service call	Often $250 to $600+

What can raise the price on 79680512900

These are the most common reasons the total goes up:

• Restricted venting causing repeated overheating and part failures
• Multiple heat-safety parts tripping (thermostats, thermistor) along with the element
• Burned wire terminals at the heater or thermostats that need repair
• Hard-to-access installation (tight closet, stacked setup, long vent run)

Before you replace the element (quick checks)

We recommend these steps first because airflow problems can mimic a bad heater:

• Clean the lint screen and confirm strong airflow at the exterior vent hood
• Check and clean vent ductwork; the manual recommends cleaning at least once per year
• Verify the dryer is on the correct electrical supply (electric models use a dedicated 240 VAC circuit)
• Run a timed dry cycle and confirm whether the exhaust becomes warm after a few minutes

Why it matters

A failed heating element can be the result of overheating from poor airflow. Fixing the venting at the same time helps the new element and thermostats last longer and keeps drying times normal.

For model-specific disassembly notes and safety steps, use the 79680512900 owner's manual. If you’re replacing the heater, match the part exactly to this model, such as the Dryer heating element 5301EL1001J.

Last updated: February 2026

To hard reset your Kenmore Elite dryer model 79680512900, we recommend a simple power reset: turn the dryer off, unplug it (or switch off the breaker) for 1 minute, then restore power and start a cycle normally. This clears most control glitches and restores normal operation.

Hard reset steps (safe, works for most issues)

• Press Power to turn the dryer off.
• Unplug the dryer (or turn the circuit breaker off).
• Wait 1 minute.
• Restore power.
• Close the door, press Power, select Normal, then press Start/Pause.
• If the dryer was paused or stopped, restart it within 4 minutes so the control does not shut off and lose settings.

For model-specific control behavior and cycle selection details, use the 79680512900 owner's manual.

If the “reset” you need is actually Control Lock

On this Kenmore Elite control panel, the controls can be locked or unlocked by pressing and holding Control Lock for 5 seconds. If buttons seem unresponsive after a power reset, this is the next thing we check.

Symptom	What it usually means	What to do
Buttons do not respond	Control Lock is on	Hold Control Lock 5 seconds
Dryer stops and turns off	Cycle not restarted in time	Press Start/Pause within 4 minutes
Dryer runs but clothes stay damp	Venting or heat issue	Check venting, then heating components

When a reset will not fix it (common root causes)

A reset will not correct a mechanical or heating failure. If the dryer tumbles but has noise, slipping, or no movement, we focus on drive parts.

• Squealing, thumping, or slow drum: inspect the dryer drum belt 4400EL2001F and idler pulley
• Rumbling or vibration: check drum rollers
• Long dry times: clean lint screen and check vent duct for blockage (ductwork should be checked and cleaned at least yearly)
• No heat or overheating symptoms: test thermostats, thermistor, and the heating element

Why it matters

A hard reset clears temporary electronic faults, but repeated shutdowns, long dry times, or overheating symptoms usually point to airflow restriction or a failing thermostat, thermistor, or heating element. Fixing the underlying cause prevents repeat problems and protects drying performance.

Last updated: February 2026

The Kenmore Elite dryer model 79680512900 has a 7.4 cu. ft. drying capacity (IEC), which is sized for large loads like towels, bedding, and mixed family laundry. For the exact rating and related specs, we recommend checking the 79680512900 use and care guide.

What “7.4 cu. ft.” means for everyday loads

A 7.4 cu. ft. Kenmore Elite dryer drum is built for bulky items and fewer loads overall.

• Handles large mixed loads without crowding the drum
• Dries bulky items (comforters, blankets) more evenly when not overpacked
• Helps reduce overdrying and static when you use sensor cycles
• Works best when you leave space for clothes to tumble freely

Capacity vs. installation size (quick reference)

Capacity is the drum volume; it is different from the dryer’s exterior dimensions.

Spec type	Kenmore 79680512900 value	Why it matters
Drying capacity	7.4 cu. ft. (IEC)	Load size the drum is designed to dry
Width	27 in.	Fit through doorways, side clearances
Depth	28 11/16 in.	Space behind dryer for venting
Height	38 in.	Fit under shelves or cabinets

Why it matters

Using the right load size helps airflow and temperature control stay consistent, which improves dry times and helps prevent issues like overheating, long cycles, and excess wear on moving parts.

Tips to get the best drying results at this capacity

• Avoid packing the drum tight; stop at about 3/4 full for mixed loads
• Dry heavy items with similar-weight items (towels with towels)
• Use sensor dry cycles to reduce overdrying and static
• Clean the lint filter before every load and keep the exhaust duct clear

Last updated: February 2026

For Kenmore Elite dryer model 79680512900, the model number is printed on the identification plate located inside the dryer door opening. Open the door and look along the cabinet frame just inside the opening; that label also typically lists the serial number.

How to find it fast

• Open the dryer door fully.
• Look on the cabinet frame just inside the door opening (not the outside panels).
• Check the upper edge and both side edges of the opening.
• Look for a sticker or metal plate labeled Model and Serial.
• Write the full model number exactly as shown (including any dots or dashes).

What the label is used for (and why it matters)

We use the model number to match the correct Kenmore parts and diagrams for your exact dryer version. That prevents ordering a look-alike part that does not fit, especially for common wear items like a drum belt, idler pulley, or heating element.

Model vs. serial number (quick reference)

Item on label	What it tells us	When you need it
Model number	Exact design and parts list	Ordering parts, checking specs
Serial number	Production run details	Service history, warranty paperwork

Helpful next steps once you find it

• Use the model number to pull the correct diagrams and part list.
• If you are troubleshooting, check the 79680512900 owner’s manual for the identification plate location and service guidance.
• If your dryer is showing a code, use Kenmore elite dryer error codes to narrow down likely causes before replacing parts.

Last updated: February 2026