Whirlpool Heating Element Assembly (W11537778)

The Whirlpool Heating Element Assembly heats water during the wash and dry portions of a dishwasher cycle. It helps raise the water temperature for cleaning and can support drying by warming the air and dishes near the end of the cycle.

Failure can occur when the element burns out, develops an internal break, or shorts to the metal sheath. Hard water buildup can insulate the element and cause overheating. Loose or corroded wiring at the terminals can also interrupt power to the element and stop it from heating.

If your dishwasher is not heating as expected, these symptoms can help you decide whether this part matches the problem:

• Dishes come out wet and cool at the end of the cycle
• Water does not get hot during the wash cycle
• Cleaning results are poor, especially on greasy soils
• Cycle time runs longer than normal as the unit tries to reach temperature
• A burning smell or visible damage on the heating element area
• Error codes related to heating, temperature, or water not heating