How to Replace Coil Valves in Kenmore Dryer

The coil valves, also known as gas valve solenoids, are essential components in Kenmore gas dryers that control the flow of gas to the burner, ensuring it ignites and maintains the correct level of heat. When the coil valves fail, the dryer may stop producing heat, even if the drum continues to spin.

A Kenmore dryer typically has two coils, and in this article, we will show you how to replace them when they fail. Replacing the coil valves is a straightforward process that involves accessing the dryer’s gas valve assembly, removing the faulty coils, and installing new ones.

How to Tell if the Coil Valves Need Replacing

You can determine whether the coil valves need replacing on your Kenmore dryer by checking for any of these signs:

• The dryer spins but does not heat. 
• The dryer heats initially but then stops heating. 
• The igniter glows but does not produce a flame.
• A multimeter shows that the coil valves don’t have continuity.

Replacing Coil Valves in a Kenmore Dryer

Follow these steps to replace the coil valves on your Kenmore dryer.

Step 1: Shut off the gas and power

The first essential step for your safety is to locate the gas supply valve that feeds gas to your dryer and turn it clockwise to shut off the gas supply completely. Then, unplug the appliance from the electrical outlet to prevent the risk of electrocution.

Step 2: Remove the top and front panels

To access the coil valves, you will likely need to remove the top and front panels of your Kenmore dryer. To do this, start by pulling out the lint screen and removing the two screws in the lint screen housing. Next, push a putty knife under the front edge of the top panel and pry it up. Lift the top panel from the front and lean it against the wall behind the dryer.

Now, you will be able to remove the front panel. Use a nut driver to remove the mounting screws from the inside of the dryer’s front panel. Next, disconnect the wire harness for the door switch. Gently pull the front panel forward, then lift it off the bottom hangers to unhook it.

Step 3: Remove the old coil valves

Locate the two coil valves at the bottom of the dryer on the burner assembly. Disconnect the two wire harnesses from the coil valves and remove the mounting screws securing the mounting bracket to the top of the coil valves.

Take a photo with your smartphone of how the old coil valves are positioned, and then remove the coil valves by pulling them off the burner assembly.

Step 4: Install the new coil valves

You can now install the new coil valves by attaching them to the burner assembly, using the photo you took to ensure they are positioned correctly. Next, reconnect the two wire harnesses and secure the mounting bracket to the top of the coil valves with the screws.

Step 5: Reassemble your Kenmore dryer

Finally, reassemble your dryer by reattaching the front panel, reconnecting the wire harness for the door switch, attaching the top panel, and restoring the electricity and gas, in that order.

Test the dryer to see if it is now heating and operating correctly.

Where to Buy Replacement Coil Valves?

Coil valves are fairly inexpensive components that are easy to source and purchase online. Your best option is to use an online appliance parts retailer or Amazon; however, some brick-and-mortar appliance stores may also stock them or be able to order them for you.

When purchasing replacement coil valves, ensure they are compatible with your Kenmore dryer model by entering the model number on the retailer’s website.

Coil valves are typically sold in convenient packs of two rather than individually. You shouldn’t replace just one coil valve, even if you believe only one is faulty. It’s best to replace both as a pair.

How Long Do Coil Valves Last?

Newly installed coil valves will typically have a lifespan of around 5 to 10 years; however, this can vary depending on how frequently the dryer is used and how well it’s maintained.

Nonetheless, you should expect them to last a long time. If the coil valves in your Kenmore dryer keep breaking, there may be an underlying issue, such as an electrical problem or overheating, that needs to be addressed. We recommend consulting a professional in such situations.

Can I Replace the Coil Valves Myself?

Replacing the coil valves is a fairly simple task for those comfortable with DIY projects and equipped with basic tools. Most people can do it themselves without hiring a professional.

Just be sure to unplug your Kenmore dryer and turn off its gas supply beforehand to ensure the job is carried out safely. If you smell gas, we recommend contacting a gas-certified technician to check for leaks.

How Long Will this Repair Take?

How long it will take you to carry out this repair depends on how skilled you are in appliance repairs. For those experienced in dryer repairs, replacing the coil valves may take as little as 30 minutes.

However, for those doing this for the first time, we recommend not rushing to ensure everything is done correctly. Set aside a few hours in the morning, afternoon, or evening so you can complete the repair at your own pace, without feeling pressured. This also allows time to account for any unexpected challenges or setbacks.