W10518394 Dishwasher Heating Element for Whirlpool Kenmore Maytag

In this review of the W10518394 dishwasher heating element, the bottom line is simple: it is a practical replacement for Whirlpool-made dishwashers with metal or stainless steel tubs when drying or heating stops working. The reviewer recommends it chiefly for owners who have confirmed compatibility with their model because the part includes the heater element and two heater fasteners and is designed specifically for metal and stainless steel tubs. Installation requires basic tools and a power disconnect, and the maker provides guidance and after-sales support for fit confirmation and troubleshooting.

Key Features

• Designed for metal and stainless steel tubs: Ensures the replacement element matches the thermal and mounting needs of metal-tub Whirlpool-family dishwashers.
• Complete kit: Includes the heater element plus two heater fasteners so the user has the main parts needed to secure the component during replacement.
• Wide compatibility list: Replaces several OEM numbers and fits many WDF and WDT series models commonly found across Whirlpool, Kenmore, Maytag, and Estate appliances.
• Fixes heating and drying failures: Intended to restore hot water temperature and drying performance when the original element has failed.
• After-sales support offered: The seller provides help to confirm fit and responds to customer questions, helping avoid incorrect purchases.
• Non-original aftermarket part: Built and tested by the maker as a durable replacement alternative to the original manufacturer part.

Who It's For

This part is best for homeowners and hobbyist repairers who have a Whirlpool-family dishwasher with a confirmed metal or stainless steel tub and who need to restore heating or drying function without a service call. It suits someone comfortable with basic tools like adjustable wrenches, screwdrivers, and needle-nose pliers and willing to disconnect power and follow an installation video or instructions.

It is not appropriate for dishwashers with plastic tubs, since the element is explicitly designed for metal and stainless steel tubs only. Also, buyers who cannot identify compatible part numbers or prefer factory-original parts from the appliance maker may want to consult a dealer or choose a different source.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Reliable replacement for models listed in the compatibility notes and often restores heat and drying performance.
• Arrives as a kit with fasteners so there is less need to source extra hardware.
• Generally praised for ease of installation and value for money by many users.
• Manufacturer offers after-sales help to confirm fit and answer installation questions.

Cons

• Not suitable for plastic tub dishwashers; specific metal-tub compatibility is required.
• Some users report inconsistent heating results, so fit confirmation and correct installation are important.

Specifications

Part number compatibility	W10518394, W10134009, W10441445, AP5690151, PS8260087 and more
Includes	Heater element and 2 heater fasteners
Designed for	Metal & stainless steel dishwasher tubs only
Compatible models	WDF520PADM7, WDT710PAYM3, WDT720PADM2, WDF520PADM5, WDF520PADM3 etc.
Manufacturer type	Aftermarket replacement part (not sourced by original manufacturer)
Tools required	Adjustable wrenches, screwdrivers, needle-nose pliers

Our Verdict

The W10518394 heating element is a cost-effective aftermarket replacement for owners of compatible Whirlpool-family dishwashers with metal or stainless steel tubs who need to restore heating and drying performance. It is good value when fit is confirmed and installed correctly, includes the basic hardware required, and benefits from seller support. Buyers should verify model compatibility and tub material before purchasing to avoid an incorrect fit.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will this work in a plastic tub dishwasher?
This heating element is designed only for metal and stainless steel tubs and should not be used in plastic-tub models.

What comes in the package?
The kit includes the heater element and two heater fasteners needed for installation.

What if I am not sure about compatibility?
Contact the seller with your dishwasher model and part numbers; they offer help to confirm fit before purchase.