Description
🧾 Description
The WPY303404 Heater Assembly is a genuine OEM replacement part manufactured by Whirlpool (also compatible with affiliated brands) for dryers. It is listed as a “Heater Assembly, 5300 W” in parts catalogs. Parts Town+2PartSelect+2
When a dryer tumbles but fails to generate heat, or if heating is very weak/slow despite vents and lint screen being clean, this heater assembly may be the underlying cause. Replacing it helps restore proper heating performance. ⚠️ Note: Disconnect power (and gas supply if applicable) before servicing. Always verify the dryer’s model number to ensure you’re ordering the correct part. Amazon+1
⚙️ Features & Benefits
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✅ Authentic OEM part — built to Whirlpool’s factory specifications, ensuring correct fit and reliability. PartSelect
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🔥 High-capacity heating element assembly (approx. 5300 W) — designed for efficient drying performance. Parts Town
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🔧 Direct-replacement design — drops into place of the original heater assembly with minimal modification required.
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🧺 Restores drying efficiency & performance — when heat output fails, replacing this part often resolves long dry times, no-heat issues, or cold loads.
⚠️ Common Symptoms
You should consider replacing the WPY303404 if you observe:
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Dryer drum runs but no heat or very low/weak heat. PartSelect+1
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Drying times are much longer than normal, even though the lint screen and venting are clean.
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The dryer trips its high-limit thermostat or thermal fuse repeatedly (indicating overheat or malfunction).
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On inspection, you see the heating element coil is broken or damaged inside the housing.
🔧 Compatibility Notes
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Fits many electric dryer models built by Whirlpool, Maytag and other affiliated brands — check the dryer’s model number tag (usually inside the door frame or on the rear) to ensure compatibility. Home Depot+1
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Because this is a heater assembly, access usually requires removal of the dryer’s front or rear panel and possibly the drum or drum support to reach the heater housing. Safe installation practices are recommended (power off, proper tools).
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If you are replacing this because of an overheat issue or repeated thermal fuse/fuse-cutoffs, it’s wise to also inspect and clean the venting system, lint trap, blower housing and check for proper airflow — restricted airflow is a common root cause of heating issues.
🔁 Cross Reference
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OEM part number: WPY303404
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Also replaces/compatible with: Y303404, 3-3404, 303404, 87-404, K85-938 (as listed in catalog). PartSelect