Dryer shows E19, may stop mid-cycle with no heat and a hot smell from the rear

Safety first: Unplug the dryer immediately. Do not continue to operate a dryer with a suspected ground fault.

Step-by-step checks:

• Access heater assembly: Remove the rear panel to expose the heater housing and wiring.
• Visual inspection: Look for burnt spots, melted insulation, or heater coils that have broken and are touching the metal housing.
• Continuity to ground test: Disconnect the heater wires. Using a multimeter, test between each heater terminal and the metal housing. Any continuity indicates a ground fault and the heater must be replaced.
• Inspect wiring: Check all heater circuit wires for pinched or rubbed insulation where they pass through metal openings. Repair or replace damaged wiring and secure with proper grommets or clips.

When to call a technician: If you are not experienced with electrical safety testing, have a professional perform these checks and repairs.