Kenmore Dryer: deteriorated lint chute seals

Professional Repair Guide

What is this symptom?

If your Kenmore dryer is showing signs of deteriorated lint chute seals, you may notice lint escaping into internal components. This issue often arises from heat exposure and wear, leading to the foam or felt seal crumbling or breaking apart. Regular inspection can help identify this problem before it affects dryer performance.

Urgency: Medium

Important Tips for Kenmore Models

Kenmore dryers use specific lint chute and lint trap foam seals (e.g., WP339956 / PS11741506) located between lint chute and bulkhead; replacing with OEM ensures proper fit and heat resistance.

Possible Causes

Foam lint chute seal degradation due to heat and wear

How to Identify: Seal appears brittle, crumbled, missing, or deteriorated when inspecting lint trap housing or lint chute; lint escaping into dryer beyond trap

Part: lint chute foam seal (e.g., WP339956 or equivalent)

Aged or incompatible replacement material

How to Identify: Previous DIY replacement using nonâ€‘OEM foam or weatherstripping that fails quickly or melts

Part: seal material

DIY Solutions

Replace lint chute foam seal with OEM part

Moderate 30-60 minutes

Tools Needed: Phillips screwdriver, putty knife, hex socket set, adhesive (if needed)

Unplug dryer and ensure power is off.
Remove dryer access panels to reach lint trap housing.
Remove old deteriorated foam seal and clean surface of lint chute and housing.
Peel adhesive backing on new OEM seal (e.g., Kenmore WP339956 / part PS11741506) and press into place around lint chute.
Reassemble housing and panels, reinstall lint filter.
Test dryer for proper airflow and check for lint leakage.

⚠️ Safety First: Disconnect power before service

Professional Repairs

Professional sealing and airflow inspection

Estimated Cost: $100 - $200

When to Call a Professional

If lint continues escaping into the dryer after replacement

If other airflow components (blower, duct) are suspected damaged

Preventive Maintenance

Inspect lint chute seals annually: Seal deterioration and airflow bypass causing lint migration
Frequency: annually
Clean lint trap and lint chute regularly: Lint buildup that can accelerate seal wear
Frequency: after each use

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Kenmore Dryer deteriorated lint chute seals?

The seals may degrade due to heat exposure and wear over time, allowing lint to escape.

How do I fix Kenmore Dryer deteriorated lint chute seals myself?

Unplug the dryer, remove access panels, then replace the old foam seal with an OEM part.

How much does it cost to fix deteriorated lint chute seals?

Professional repairs typically cost between $100 and $200.

When should I call a technician for deteriorated lint chute seals?

If the issue persists after a DIY fix or if you're unsure about performing repairs yourself, it's best to call a technician.

Community Analytical Insights

Analysis based on real user discussions from appliance repair communities

Can I Fix This Myself?

75%

DIY Success Rate Difficulty: DIY

Common Issues Reported by Users

Age of the dryer leading to wear and tear on the seals
Exposure to high temperatures causing the seals to degrade
Improper installation or maintenance leading to seal damage

User Suggested Solutions

Replace the deteriorated lint chute seals with OEM parts. First, unplug the dryer. Remove the lint filter and any screws securing the lint chute cover. Carefully detach the cover, remove old seals, clean the area, and install new seals before reassembling the cover and plugging the dryer back in.
Use high-temperature silicone sealant to fill gaps in the existing seals. Ensure the area is clean and dry before applying the sealant. Allow it to cure as per manufacturer instructions before using the dryer.
Install alternative seals such as BBQ oven gasket seals. Measure the dimensions of the lint chute and cut the gasket to size. Clean the area thoroughly before applying the gasket. Ensure it adheres well to prevent lint leaks.

Analysis based on 1 community discussions
View Sources

Data compiled from real discussions on r/appliancerepair and r/Appliances:

Is it worth repairing old 80’s Kenmore dryer?

Community Discussions

lint chute seals deteriorated

Used BBQ oven gasket seals as a cheaper alternative to OEM parts for lint chute seals.