I have a Kenmore Evenheat dryer that no longer dries my clothes consistently . I took off the front panel, and what I observe it that when I start it up, there are three different possible outcomes:

1) The heating element glows red, and 5 seconds later the flame ignites and the dryer works properly (about 10% of the time)
2) The heating element glows read, 5 seconds later the flame DOESN'T ignite, and the heating element gives up and cools off (about 20% of the time)
3) The heating element doesn't even bother heating up (about 70% of the time)

Anyone know what I should replace and/or clean?

Thanks,

Thomas

You have an element and an igniter?

I didn't know such a thing exsisted, not saying it doenst, I learn new stuff every day.

I do know one thing, and electric element, no matter what its on shouldn't "ignite".

Those dryer elements really need to be in their cavity with adaquate air passing through them when it is energized. If not in can overheat, and yes even catch on fire. (this I know through personal expirence :) )

I will say, that IF you are looking at just an electric element with that kind of problem, it sounds like there isn't enough air passing trhough it. You might try cleaning out your exaust line, and under the drum where the blower is at, lots of lint gets trapped down there.

Setting next to the igniter is there a sensor next to it. They normally have a small glass window on it.
It has a bi-metal switch in it.
When it gets hot from the igniter it sends power to the gas valve and when it cools down it lets the igniter turn on.
It could be that sensor sticking