Fixing Kenmore Elite HE3 Dryer Not Heating Issues: Quick Guide

If you own a Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer and have noticed that your clothes aren’t drying effectively or the dryer is not heating up, this guide is for you. There can be numerous reasons why your dryer is not heating up, but don’t worry; we are here to assist you in troubleshooting and resolving the issue.

Before calling a repairman or buying a new dryer, you can try some troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to determine the cause of your Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer not heating and offer solutions to fix the problem. Let’s get started!

Key Takeaways

• Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer not heating can be resolved through troubleshooting.
• Before diving into complex repairs, ensure your dryer is getting proper power supply and the settings are correct.
• Inspecting heating elements, cleaning or replacing air vent, and checking thermal or high limit thermostats can resolve the issue.
• Gas dryers require additional checks, such as examining the igniter or gas supply.
• If all else fails, examine the control board or consult a professional for repairs or replacement.

Check Power Supply and Settings

If your Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer is not getting hot or won’t heat up, the first step is to check the power supply and settings. Before jumping into complex repairs, ensure that your dryer is receiving proper power supply and the settings are correct. It will save you time and effort in the long run.

Here’s what you need to do:

1. Make sure that the dryer is plugged into a working outlet and that the outlet is receiving power. Test the outlet with another appliance or device to ensure it’s working correctly.
2. Check the circuit breaker for tripped fuses. Reset any tripped fuses to restore power to the dryer.
3. Verify that the temperature settings on the dryer are correct. If the temperature setting is set too low, the dryer won’t heat up properly.

Once you’ve checked the power supply and settings, turn the dryer on again and see if it’s working correctly. If the issue persists, move on to the next step.

Note: If you’re unsure about working with electrical components, consult a professional for assistance.

Inspect Heating Element

If your Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer is not heating, the heating element could be the culprit. The heating element is responsible for generating the warm air that dries your clothes. If it’s faulty, the dryer won’t heat properly. Follow the steps below to inspect the heating element:

1. Unplug the dryer and locate the heating element. It’s typically located at the back of the dryer, behind the drum.
2. Visually inspect the heating element for any signs of damage, such as breaks or burns. If you notice any damage, it’s time to replace the heating element.
3. If there’s no visible damage, use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity. Place the multimeter probes on each end of the heating element. If there’s no continuity, the heating element is faulty and needs replacement.

If you have a gas dryer, the process of inspecting the heating element is different. You’ll need to check the igniter, flame sensor, and gas valve coils to ensure they’re functioning correctly. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or consult a professional for guidance.

Replacing the heating element is a job best left to professionals, especially if you have an electric dryer. Attempting to replace the heating element without proper training and tools can cause damage and be dangerous. Contact a qualified technician to ensure the job is done safely and correctly.

“The heating element is responsible for generating the warm air that dries your clothes. If it’s faulty, the dryer won’t heat properly.”

Clean or Replace Air Vent

If your Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer isn’t drying clothes efficiently, a clogged or blocked air vent may be the culprit. Cleaning or replacing the air vent can improve your dryer’s drying capabilities.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Turn off the dryer and unplug it from the power source.
2. Locate the air vent on the back of the dryer.
3. Check for any visible obstructions, such as lint buildup or debris.
4. If there is an obstruction, use a vacuum or a lint brush to remove it carefully.
5. If your air vent is damaged or severely clogged, you may need to replace it entirely. Consult the dryer’s user manual for instructions on how to do this.

Remember to periodically check and clean your dryer’s air vent to maintain optimal drying performance.

Check Thermal Fuse

If your Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer is not heating properly, a blown thermal fuse could be the culprit. The thermal fuse is a safety device that prevents the dryer from overheating. If it’s blown, the dryer may not heat at all. Here’s how to check the thermal fuse:

1. Unplug the dryer from the power source.
2. Locate the thermal fuse on the back of the dryer’s blower housing. It’s usually a small white or black rectangular component with two wires attached to it.
3. Remove the wires from the thermal fuse by pulling the connectors, not the wires themselves.
4. Use a multimeter to test the thermal fuse for continuity. Set the multimeter to the continuity setting and touch the probes to the thermal fuse’s terminals. If there’s no continuity, the thermal fuse is blown and needs to be replaced.
5. Replace the thermal fuse if it’s blown. Make sure to use a thermal fuse with the same temperature rating as the original one.

Checking the thermal fuse is a simple troubleshooting step that can save you time and money. If the thermal fuse is not the problem, move on to the next potential cause.

Examine High Limit Thermostat

If you have checked the power supply, settings, heating element, and thermal fuse, but your Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer still isn’t heating properly, it’s time to examine the high limit thermostat. This thermostat is responsible for shutting off the heating element if it gets too hot.

To examine the high limit thermostat, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the power to your dryer.
2. Locate the high limit thermostat, which is usually found at the back of the dryer drum or on the heating element housing.
3. Remove the wires from the thermostat using a pair of pliers.
4. Set your multimeter to the Rx1 setting and attach the probes to the thermostat’s terminals.
5. If the reading is zero, the thermostat needs replacement. If the reading is infinity, the thermostat is functioning properly.
6. If the thermostat needs replacement, remove it and order a new one. Install the new thermostat and reattach the wires.

It’s important to note that the high limit thermostat is not a commonly replaced part, but it can malfunction over time. Regular maintenance and cleaning can prevent issues with this component.

“When dealing with electrical components, it’s important to prioritize your safety. Always turn off the power to your dryer and wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles.”

Test Cycling Thermostat

If you have checked the power supply and settings, inspected the heating element, and examined the high limit thermostat in your Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer and it’s still not heating correctly, it’s time to test the cycling thermostat.

The cycling thermostat regulates the temperature inside your dryer. If it’s faulty, it may cause your dryer to not heat properly. Follow these steps to test the cycling thermostat:

1. Disconnect the power supply to the dryer.
2. Locate the cycling thermostat on the blower housing (refer to the dryer manual if needed).
3. Use a multimeter to test the thermostat for continuity.
4. If the thermostat doesn’t have continuity, it needs to be replaced.
5. Install the new thermostat and reconnect the power supply to the dryer.

Testing and replacing the cycling thermostat may require some technical expertise. If you are not comfortable conducting these steps, it’s best to consult a professional.

Check Igniter (Gas Dryer Only)

If you own a Kenmore Elite HE3 gas dryer and it’s not heating properly, the igniter could be the culprit. The igniter is responsible for starting the burner, which heats the dryer. If it’s faulty or damaged, the burner won’t ignite, and your dryer won’t heat up.

To check the igniter on your Kenmore Elite HE3 gas dryer, you’ll need to remove the front panel to access the igniter. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Unplug the dryer from the power source or turn off the circuit breaker.
2. Remove the lower front panel by unscrewing the screws at the bottom of the panel and lifting it up and out.
3. Locate the igniter on the burner assembly. It’s a small, rectangular device with wires connected to it.
4. Inspect the igniter for any visible damage, such as cracks or breaks.
5. Use a multimeter to test the igniter’s resistance. The reading should be between 50 and 400 ohms. If it’s outside of this range, the igniter needs to be replaced.
6. If the igniter is faulty, you’ll need to replace it. Disconnect the wires from the old igniter and remove it from the burner assembly. Install the new igniter and reconnect the wires. Make sure the igniter is properly aligned with the burner assembly.

Once you’ve checked and replaced the igniter on your Kenmore Elite HE3 gas dryer, reattach the front panel and plug the dryer back in or turn on the circuit breaker. Run a test cycle to ensure the dryer is heating properly.

“Checking the igniter is a relatively simple and inexpensive fix for a gas dryer that’s not heating. However, if the issue persists, it may be time to call in a professional for further diagnosis and repair.”

Clean or Replace Lint Filter

A clogged or dirty lint filter can restrict airflow and cause your Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer not drying clothes efficiently. It’s crucial to clean or replace the lint filter regularly to prevent this issue. Here’s how to do it:

1. Locate the lint filter on your dryer. It’s typically situated near the dryer door or on the top of the dryer.
2. Remove the lint filter from its slot.
3. Use a soft-bristled brush or your fingers to remove any visible lint from the filter.
4. Rinse the filter with warm water and mild detergent to remove any remaining debris.
5. Let the filter dry completely before placing it back in the dryer.
6. If the filter is damaged or too clogged to clean, replace it with a new one. You can find replacement filters at most hardware or appliance stores.

Cleaning or replacing the lint filter should be a regular part of your dryer maintenance routine. It will not only improve drying performance but also reduce the risk of fire hazards caused by lint build-up.

Check Gas Supply (Gas Dryer Only)

If you’re experiencing heating issues with your Kenmore Elite HE3 gas dryer, it’s essential to check the gas supply. Without a proper gas connection, your dryer won’t be able to heat up properly. Follow these steps to make sure your gas supply is functioning correctly:

1. Check the gas shutoff valve to ensure it’s turned on.
2. Verify that the gas line is connected to your dryer.
3. Ensure that the gas line is not kinked, bent, or damaged in any way.
4. Check the gas pressure to make sure it’s at the correct level. You can use a gas pressure gauge to check the pressure.

If you’re unsure about any of these steps, it’s best to consult a professional. Gas connections can be dangerous, so it’s important to prioritize safety.

Once you’ve verified that your gas supply is functioning correctly, test your dryer to see if it’s heating up properly. If you’re still experiencing heating issues, it’s time to move on to other troubleshooting steps.

Examine Control Board

If you have followed all the troubleshooting steps outlined in this guide and your Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer still doesn’t heat, it’s time to examine the control board.

The control board is responsible for controlling various functions of the dryer, including the heating element. If it’s malfunctioning, it can cause heating problems.

To examine the control board, follow these steps:

1. Unplug your dryer from the power source.
2. Locate the control board, which is typically located behind the dryer’s control panel.
3. Inspect the control board for any signs of damage or burnt marks.
4. If you notice any damage, you will need to replace the control board.
5. If there are no visible signs of damage, test the control board with a multimeter to determine if it’s functioning correctly.
6. If the control board is faulty, you will need to replace it to resolve the heating issue.

Remember that working with electrical components can be dangerous, so always prioritize safety and consult a professional if needed.

Conclusion

Congratulations on making it to the end of our guide on fixing Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer not heating issues! We hope that the troubleshooting steps and solutions provided in this guide have helped you resolve the problem and get your dryer working efficiently again.

Remember to always prioritize safety when performing any repairs or maintenance on your dryer. If you’re unsure about any of the steps or feel uncomfortable, it’s always best to consult a professional.

Regular maintenance and cleaning can go a long way in preventing future heating issues with your Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer. Don’t forget to clean the lint filter after every use and inspect the air vent for blockages and debris.

Get in touch with us

If you have any further questions or need assistance with repairing your Kenmore Elite HE3 dryer, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. Our team of experts is always ready to help you out!