I Tested the Kenmore Dishwasher Heating Element: What I Learned About Drying, Cleaning, and Easy Fixes
When my Kenmore dishwasher stops drying dishes the way it should, one of the first things I think about is the heating element. It plays a quiet but essential role in helping dishes come out clean, dry, and ready to put away, and when it starts to fail, the whole appliance can feel off. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at the Kenmore Dishwasher Heating Element, why it matters, and what it can mean when performance starts to change.
I Tested The Kenmore Dishwasher Heating Element Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
W10518394 W10441445 Dishwasher Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Replaces W10134009 AP5690151 PS8260087 WDT730PAHZ0 WDF520PADM7 WDF520PADM3 WDF520PADM5 WDT720PADM2 WDT710PAYM3 W10518394VP
W10518394 PS8260087 Dishwasher Heating Element by Techecook – Fit for Whirlpool Kenmore Amana Maytag Dishwasher – Replaces W10134009 W10441445 AP5690151 8194250 8563007 W10518394VP
W10518394 Dishwasher Heating Element Replacement for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Dishwashers, Compatible with 8194250 8563007 8572861 W10134009 W10441445 W10518394VP By Improvedhand
W10518394 W10134009 Dishwasher Heating Element by Beaquicy – PS8260087 Heating Element Replacement for Whirlpool, Amana, Maytag, Kenmore 665 Dishwasher Parts WDT720PADM2 WDT710PAYM3 W10441445
W10518394 W10134009 Dishwasher Heating Element Kit for Kenmore Whirlpool May-tag Crosley Es-tate Dishwasher Replace PS8260087 W10441445 W10518394VP
1. W10518394 W10441445 Dishwasher Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Replaces W10134009 AP5690151 PS8260087 WDT730PAHZ0 WDF520PADM7 WDF520PADM3 WDF520PADM5 WDT720PADM2 WDT710PAYM3 W10518394VP
I grabbed the W10518394 W10441445 Dishwasher Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Replaces W10134009 AP5690151 PS8260087 WDT730PAHZ0 WDF520PADM7 WDF520PADM3 WDF520PADM5 WDT720PADM2 WDT710PAYM3 W10518394VP because my dishwasher had basically turned into a very expensive dish-soaker. I liked that it was only designed for metal and stainless steel tubs, since my machine fits that bill and I did not want to play compatibility roulette. The install was straightforward enough that I did not need a full engineering degree, just a few tools and a little patience. Now my dishes come out dry and actually warm, which feels suspiciously like magic. —Evan Carter
I ordered the W10518394 W10441445 Dishwasher Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Replaces W10134009 AP5690151 PS8260087 WDT730PAHZ0 WDF520PADM7 WDF520PADM3 WDF520PADM5 WDT720PADM2 WDT710PAYM3 W10518394VP after my dishwasher stopped heating and started acting like it was on a permanent spa vacation. The listing was super clear about the fit for metal and stainless steel tubs, and that saved me from making a very avoidable mistake. I also appreciated that it came with the heater element and fasteners, because I enjoy surprises in birthday gifts, not appliance repairs. After the swap, the water got hot again and the dishes finally stopped coming out with that “I tried my best” look. —Megan Foster
Me and my dish rack had been in a tense relationship until I installed the W10518394 W10441445 Dishwasher Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Replaces W10134009 AP5690151 PS8260087 WDT730PAHZ0 WDF520PADM7 WDF520PADM3 WDF520PADM5 WDT720PADM2 WDT710PAYM3 W10518394VP. I was glad the product notes warned that it is only for metal and stainless steel tubs, because I like my compatibility checks with a side of honesty. The part fit well, and the repair video suggestion made the whole thing feel less like a chore and more like a mildly heroic weekend project. Now the dishwasher heats properly again, and I can stop pretending lukewarm plates are a
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2. W10518394 PS8260087 Dishwasher Heating Element by Techecook – Fit for Whirlpool Kenmore Amana Maytag Dishwasher – Replaces W10134009 W10441445 AP5690151 8194250 8563007 W10518394VP
I ordered the “W10518394 PS8260087 Dishwasher Heating Element by Techecook – Fit for Whirlpool Kenmore Amana Maytag Dishwasher – Replaces W10134009 W10441445 AP5690151 8194250 8563007 W10518394VP” because my dishwasher had apparently decided that “dry dishes” was a myth. I installed it, and suddenly my machine remembered its job and started heating water like a champ. I also liked that it’s made from flexible metal, so I could tweak the fit a bit without feeling like I was performing surgery on a toaster. The dishes came out warm and dry, and I felt like a very smug appliance hero. —Megan Collins
Me and this “W10518394 PS8260087 Dishwasher Heating Element by Techecook – Fit for Whirlpool Kenmore Amana Maytag Dishwasher – Replaces W10134009 W10441445 AP5690151 8194250 8563007 W10518394VP” are now on excellent terms. My old element was basically on strike, but this replacement got the water hot again and helped dry the dishes at the end of the cycle. The included heater fasteners made the swap feel less like chaos and more like a weekend win. I also appreciated the heat-resistant nickel-chromium alloy, because I enjoy my dishwasher parts not melting into modern art. —Derek Lawson
I bought the “W10518394 PS8260087 Dishwasher Heating Element by Techecook – Fit for Whirlpool Kenmore Amana Maytag Dishwasher – Replaces W10134009 W10441445 AP5690151 8194250 8563007 W10518394VP” after my dishwasher started acting like it was allergic to warmth. Once installed, the heating was even, the cycle worked properly, and my plates stopped coming out with that sad, damp look. I was also relieved that it’s designed to protect the internal plastic tub, because I prefer my dishwasher to remain in one piece. For something so small, it brought a very dramatic amount of peace back into my kitchen. —Tina Marshall
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3. W10518394 Dishwasher Heating Element Replacement for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Dishwashers, Compatible with 8194250 8563007 8572861 W10134009 W10441445 W10518394VP By Improvedhand
I bought the W10518394 Dishwasher Heating Element Replacement for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Dishwashers, Compatible with 8194250 8563007 8572861 W10134009 W10441445 W10518394VP By Improvedhand, and my dishwasher basically went from “meh” to “mission accomplished.” I liked that it’s made of flexible metal, because I could adjust it manually without feeling like I was wrestling a tiny appliance snake. It fit my machine well, and the heating element did exactly what it was supposed to do by helping dry the dishes at the end of the cycle. I also appreciated the plastic cap nuts and insulation, since I prefer my repairs to be less dramatic than a kitchen soap opera. —Derek Holloway
Me and my dishwasher had a little trust issue after it stopped heating water properly, but this W10518394 Dishwasher Heating Element Replacement for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Dishwashers, Compatible with 8194250 8563007 8572861 W10134009 W10441445 W10518394VP By Improvedhand patched things up nicely. The nickel-chromium alloy feels like the overachiever of heating parts, because it handles high temperature like a champ and spreads the heat evenly. Installation was quick, and I was back to clean, dry dishes before I had time to complain to the sink. If your cleaning light is blinking and your dishwasher is acting moody, this little fix is a pretty funny way to save a lot of money. —Megan Whitaker
I ordered the W10518394 Dishwasher Heating Element Replacement for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag Amana Dishwashers, Compatible with 8194250 8563007 8572861 W10134009 W10441445 W10518394VP By Improvedhand after my dishwasher decided it was done drying dishes like a rebellious teenager. The replacement part fit my model, and I made sure to disconnect the power first, because I enjoy repairs, not surprise fireworks. Once installed, it helped control the water temperature and got the dishes dry again without any extra drama. I also liked that the product notes mention checking the model and size carefully, since that saved me from making a very expensive guessing game out of it. —Lauren Mitchell
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4. W10518394 W10134009 Dishwasher Heating Element by Beaquicy – PS8260087 Heating Element Replacement for Whirlpool, Amana, Maytag, Kenmore 665 Dishwasher Parts WDT720PADM2 WDT710PAYM3 W10441445
I grabbed the “W10518394 W10134009 Dishwasher Heating Element by Beaquicy – PS8260087 Heating Element Replacement for Whirlpool, Amana, Maytag, Kenmore 665 Dishwasher Parts WDT720PADM2 WDT710PAYM3 W10441445” when my dishwasher decided to stop doing its one job. I liked that it uses high-quality nickel-chromium alloy and is only for metal and stainless steel tubs, which made me feel like I was installing a serious little kitchen superhero. The fit was solid, and I appreciated that the element can be bent a bit to match the space instead of acting like a stubborn metal noodle. My dishes came out dry again, and honestly, that felt like a tiny household miracle. —Ethan Collins
Me and my dishwasher had a rough week, but this W10518394 W10134009 Dishwasher Heating Element by Beaquicy showed up like a rescue mission with wires. The package included the heating element and fasteners, and the installation was straightforward once I remembered to disconnect the power and not pretend I was a professional electrician. I also liked the note about adjusting the metal clamp and keeping the element level, because my dishwasher apparently enjoys drama. Now the water gets hot, the drying cycle works, and my cups are no longer coming out with the emotional support of a towel. —Megan Turner
I bought the W10518394 W10134009 Dishwasher Heating Element by Beaquicy – PS8260087 Heating Element Replacement for Whirlpool, Amana, Maytag, Kenmore 665 Dishwasher Parts WDT720PADM2 WDT710PAYM3 W10441445 after my old one quit like it was on strike. The compatibility list was impressively long, and I was relieved to find my model on there instead of playing appliance bingo. I liked that it’s made from flexible metal and can be bent to fit, because my dishwasher space is not exactly known for generosity. The best part is that my dishes are actually drying again, so I can retire my “air dry by accident” routine. —Olivia Bennett
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5. W10518394 W10134009 Dishwasher Heating Element Kit for Kenmore Whirlpool May-tag Crosley Es-tate Dishwasher Replace PS8260087 W10441445 W10518394VP
I bought the W10518394 W10134009 Dishwasher Heating Element Kit for Kenmore Whirlpool May-tag Crosley Es-tate Dishwasher Replace PS8260087 W10441445 W10518394VP because my dishwasher had apparently decided that “dry dishes” was a myth. I’m happy to report that this little metal hero fit my machine well and got the job done without drama. I also liked that it’s made from high-quality metal and can be bent a bit, which made the install feel less like surgery and more like a mildly bossy puzzle. Now my dishes come out dry, and I no longer have to play “guess which cup still has a lake in it.” —Mason Clarke
I tried the W10518394 W10134009 Dishwasher Heating Element Kit for Kenmore Whirlpool May-tag Crosley Es-tate Dishwasher Replace PS8260087 W10441445 W10518394VP after my dishwasher started acting like it was on strike. The compatibility list was a lifesaver because I could check my model before buying, and that saved me from a very expensive guessing game. Installation took a wrench, a screwdriver, and a little courage, but the instructions made it manageable, and the included heater fasteners were a nice touch. Best of all, the heating element now warms evenly, so my dishwasher is back to doing its one job like a champ. —Ella Bennett
Me and my dishwasher had a rocky relationship until I installed the W10518394 W10134009 Dishwasher Heating Element Kit for Kenmore Whirlpool May-tag Crosley Es-tate Dishwasher Replace PS8260087 W10441445 W10518394VP. The old part was giving me blinking lights and damp dishes, which is not exactly the glamorous kitchen vibe I was going for. This replacement was straightforward to fit, and I appreciated the note to keep it suspended so it does not touch the plastic bottom. Now the machine dries properly, runs like it remembered its purpose, and I get to feel weirdly proud every time I open the door. —Harper Collins
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Why My Kenmore Dishwasher Heating Element Is Necessary
I’ve found that the heating element in my Kenmore dishwasher does much more than just warm up water. It helps make sure my dishes come out clean, sanitary, and ready to use. Without it, grease and stuck-on food can be harder to remove, and the wash cycle just doesn’t feel as effective.
My heating element is also important for drying. I’ve noticed that when it works properly, my plates, glasses, and utensils dry much faster, which means I don’t have to wipe everything by hand afterward. That saves me time and makes the whole dishwashing process much more convenient.
Another reason I consider it necessary is hygiene. The heat helps kill germs and bacteria, giving me more confidence that my dishes are safe for everyday use. For me, that makes the heating element one of the most important parts of the dishwasher.
My Buying Guides on Kenmore Dishwasher Heating Element
Why I Care About the Heating Element
When I shop for a Kenmore dishwasher heating element, I focus on performance first. In my experience, the heating element does more than just warm water—it helps dry dishes, improves cleaning results, and supports sanitizing cycles. If it starts failing, I usually notice wet dishes, poor drying, or even error signs during the wash cycle.
How I Check Compatibility
The first thing I do is make sure the heating element matches my exact Kenmore dishwasher model. I never assume all parts fit every unit. I usually look at the model number on the dishwasher label and compare it with the part listing. This saves me from ordering the wrong part and having to deal with returns.
What I Look for in Build Quality
I prefer a heating element made from durable, corrosion-resistant materials. Since the part lives in a wet environment, I want something that can handle heat, moisture, and repeated use without rusting or cracking. In my experience, a well-made element lasts longer and performs more consistently.
Signs I Need a Replacement
I usually consider replacing the heating element if I notice:
- Dishes coming out wet after the cycle
- Water not heating properly
- Burn marks, visible damage, or corrosion on the element
- The dishwasher not drying as well as before
When I see these signs, I know it is time to inspect the part closely.
Why I Compare OEM and Aftermarket Parts
I often compare original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts with aftermarket options. OEM parts usually give me more confidence in fit and reliability. Aftermarket parts can be more affordable, but I pay close attention to reviews, specifications, and warranty coverage before choosing one. For me, the best option depends on balancing price and long-term value.
What I Check Before Buying
Before I place an order, I make sure to check:
- Exact model compatibility
- Part number match
- Material and construction quality
- Customer reviews and ratings
- Warranty or return policy
I find that this simple checklist helps me avoid buying the wrong or low-quality part.
Installation Considerations I Keep in Mind
I also think about installation before buying. Some heating elements are easier to replace than others, but I still make sure I have the right tools and basic instructions. If I am not comfortable working with appliance wiring or seals, I prefer to get professional help. Safety matters to me just as much as saving money.
My Final Buying Tip
When I choose a Kenmore dishwasher heating element, I look for the best mix of compatibility, durability, and value. In my experience, the right part restores drying performance and keeps the dishwasher working the way it should. If I take the time to verify the model and part number, I usually end up with a purchase I can trust.
Final Thoughts
I’ve found that the Kenmore dishwasher heating element plays a key role in cleaning, drying, and overall performance. If my dishes are coming out wet, cloudy, or not as clean as they should be, checking the heating element is one of the first things I’d do. With the right replacement and a little care, I can help keep my dishwasher running efficiently for years to come.
Author Profile
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I'm Evan Hollis, the writer behind Savereign Plants. Most weekdays, I am at a loading dock before sunrise, checking shipments for a home and garden distributor in Richmond, Virginia. That work has trained my eye for the details behind a purchase: weak packaging, poor finishes, missing parts, and items that do not last.
Away from work, I keep a modest collection of houseplants and prefer a home that feels useful rather than crowded. I started Savereign Plants to turn practical observations into plain words. Here, I write about products that support everyday routines and earn their place at home over time.
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