The heating element sits around the fan.If the rotation of the fan is off its axis,then its likely it has damaged the element. Strip it down........remove the fan. Inspect the fan and motor. Any off axis movement of either ..Replace. Test the heating element with a multimeter. Check for a reading over 16 ohms or more or check its continuity..... Make sure you isolate the power to the appliance,before you investigate.
paul
January 2012