How to Measure Continuity With a Multimeter in a Dryer

Turn the selector control on the multimeter to test for ohms.

Unplug the dryer's power cord from the wall outlet. Pull the appliance forward into the room and turn to reach the back cover.

Remove the bolts in the back cover with the nut driver. Slide the cover along the power cord and lean to one side of the appliance. The heating element is on the left side in a metal cannister.

Take out the screws holding the cannister to the bracket underneath. Pull the cannister straight up to unplug the heating element.

Touch the two wired wands on the multimeter to the two electrical contacts on the heating element. The contacts protrude from the open end of the cannister. An infinite or zero reading means the element is defective.

Take out the screws in the sides of the kick panel on the front of the appliance, using a screwdriver. Pull downward on the panel and tip at an angle to remove. The motor is now visible on the right side.

Touch the two multimeter wands to the two terminals on the top or side of the motor where the wires connect. Use the terminals for the black and white wires. If there is no reading or the display flashes endlessly, the motor is bad.