Fix Heating Element Relay on Samsung DVE45T3400W

I’m Drew Callahan, and after covering over 80,000 miles across North America in three different rigs, I’ve had my fair share of encounters with Samsung DVE45T3400W dryers. Heating element relay failures are a common issue I run into, typically manifesting as a dryer that runs but doesn’t produce any heat. From my hands-on experience, replacing the control board or the relay component itself usually resolves the problem completely.

Drew Callahan — Appliance Repair Technician

Experience: 15+ years servicing residential & commercial appliances • Specialties: Washers, dryers, refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, microwaves, ice makers

Heating element relay failure

In this step-by-step repair guide, I’ll walk you through fixing heating element relay failure on your Samsung DVE45T3400W (Electric). With the right tools and parts, you can complete this repair in 1–2 hours and save yourself the expense of a service call.

The part you likely need: The control board that restores heat without relay diagnostics — Control board (with heating relay) on Amazon →

🔨 Pro Tip from Drew

On the DVE45T3400W, the heating relay is part of the main control board (DC92-01803F). A common mistake I see DIYers make is replacing just the heating element when it tests fine — always check the relay on that board with a multimeter first. Look for heat discoloration around the relay solder points; that’s your telltale sign the board is the true culprit, not a thermistor or thermal fuse downstream.

Part of our Top 20 Dryer Models & Common Repair Issues Guide. Browse all dryer repair guides for related models and issues.

Common Symptoms & Causes

If your Samsung DVE45T3400W is experiencing a heating element relay failure, you may notice one or more of the following symptoms during operation:

The dryer runs a full cycle but clothes come out completely cold and damp
The drum spins normally but no heat is produced at any temperature setting
The dryer display shows error code “HC” or “HE” indicating a heating circuit fault
The dryer intermittently produces heat, then stops mid-cycle without warning

This issue usually arises from a burned-out or stuck relay on the control board, often due to prolonged heat exposure, electrical surges, or just the normal wear and tear that comes with time.

Safety First

Unplug the dryer from the power outlet before starting any repair — never work on a live appliance.
Wear work gloves when handling metal brackets, sheet metal edges, or sharp components.
Take photos with your phone before disconnecting any wiring harnesses or connectors.
Work in a well-lit area with enough floor space to lay removed panels flat.

Tools & Parts Needed

Essential Tools

Phillips #2 screwdriver
¼” nut driver
Putty knife
Multimeter
Work gloves

Replacement Parts

Step-by-Step Repair Instructions

Step 1

Before assuming the relay is the problem, rule out a failed heating element, since both faults produce identical symptoms (heat, no heat). Remove the rear panel (5 × ¼” hex screws), disconnect the element leads, and test across the element terminals with a multimeter set to Rx1 — an open (OL) reading means the element itself is the cause; replace it before going further.

Step 2

If the element tests closed (continuity present), the element is mechanically intact but is not receiving power, which points to the control board relay that switches 240V to the element circuit. This narrows the diagnosis to the board rather than the heating circuit itself, saving you from replacing a part that is not faulty.

Step 3

With the dryer plugged in, reassembled, and running a heat cycle, use a meter set to AC voltage and probe the heating element harness connector — you are confirming whether 240V is actually reaching the element. A zero-volt reading at this point proves the relay on the control board is open and is not switching the circuit; always use insulated probes and avoid contact with any other live terminals during this live test.

Step 4

Power down and unplug the dryer before accessing the control board — capacitors on the board can hold a charge, so wait 60 seconds after unplugging. Remove the top panel (2 rear screws), locate the relay responsible for the heating element circuit, and inspect it closely for burnt or discolored contacts, a cracked relay body, or scorch marks on the PCB around the relay, any of which confirm the relay has failed.

Step 5

Replace the control board with OEM part DC92-01802E; before disconnecting any wiring, photograph the full harness layout so you can restore every connector to its exact original position — misrouting a harness here can cause secondary faults or error codes. Reconnect all connectors until they click, reinstall the top panel, and restore the two rear screws.

Step 6

Run a full heated cycle and verify the element energizes within the first 2–3 minutes by confirming warm air at the exhaust vent; if heat is still absent at this point, re-check all harness connections at the board before suspecting a secondary fault such as a failed thermal fuse or cycling thermostat in the heating circuit.

Where to Buy Replacement Parts

You can find genuine OEM and aftermarket replacement parts for your Samsung DVE45T3400W (Electric) on Amazon:

When to Call a Professional

If the issue persists after completing all steps above, the problem may involve a failed main control board, a defective heating element or thermal cutoff, or wiring that requires specialized diagnostic equipment. It’s time to contact a licensed appliance technician. And remember, if you’re dealing with gas dryers, don’t attempt work on the gas valve or supply line — that work is restricted to a licensed gas fitter in most jurisdictions.

How Much Does This Repair Cost?

Replacing a heating element relay on the Samsung DVE45T3400W typically costs $20–$65 in parts when you do it yourself. A professional service call for this repair usually runs $150–$300, including labor and parts. Tackling this repair yourself can save you $100 or more, making it a worthwhile fix for anyone who feels confident in their repair skills.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if the heating element relay is the cause of my Samsung DVE45T3400W not heating?

If your dryer runs and tumbles but produces no heat, a failed heating element relay is a likely culprit. Use a multimeter to test the relay for continuity — no continuity confirms it needs replacement.

Is it safe to replace the heating element relay myself on the DVE45T3400W?

Yes, with basic tools and the power disconnected, this is a manageable DIY repair. Always unplug the dryer before opening the cabinet to avoid electrical hazards.

How much does a replacement relay typically cost for this Samsung model?

Replacement relays for the DVE45T3400W generally cost between $10 and $30 depending on the supplier. Purchasing an OEM Samsung part ensures proper fit and reliable performance.

Recommended Products

These are the parts and tools I recommend for this repair, based on compatibility and customer reviews:

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

The Control Board That Fixes the No-Heat Problem on Your Samsung DVE45T3400W

When a DVE45T3400W runs but produces zero heat, the heating element relay on the control board is usually the culprit—and replacing the entire board is the most reliable fix. This board comes with the relay already integrated, so you’re not chasing down a tiny component that’s hard to source separately.

What works

Eliminates the guessing game—replacing the board solves the relay failure without needing a multimeter or diagnostic skills to confirm which relay pin has failed.
Genuine compatibility with the DVE45T3400W means no adapter hassles or partial functionality after installation.
Faster than sourcing a bare relay component and hoping it seats correctly in the existing board—this approach gets your dryer back to heat in one swap.

What doesn’t

More expensive than a standalone relay, but worth it when you factor in the time and the risk of misdiagnosing which component actually failed.
Installation requires disconnecting the wiring harness and removing a few screws—not difficult, but you need to be comfortable working inside the dryer cabinet and taking a photo of the connectors before you unplug anything.

I’ve had customers order just a heating element first, only to discover the element itself was fine and the real problem was the relay not sending power to it. That wasted week of troubleshooting is exactly why I recommend going straight to the Control board (with heating relay) if you’ve confirmed the dryer is running but producing no heat.

Control board (with heating relay)

I replaced just the board instead of chasing relay pins—dryer heated again the same day.

Check Price on Amazon →

Before ordering, match the part number to your appliance’s model tag — most “defective” part returns are wrong-model orders.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.

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