newsletter_How_to_replace_an_oven

How to Replace an Oven Element

The oven element in your electric range can burn out at any time. But it always seems to happen at the most inopportune times, such as the week before Christmas or Thanksgiving. Fortunately, most elements do give warnings. Most often they will have a bright spot that will be noticed by the homeowner. If your element gives this warning sign replace it as soon as possible. Waiting for the element to burn out is inadvisable because the oven thermostat or other electric components can be affected.

In all aspects of this job safety must come first. Use only the manufacturers original parts, not a cheaper substitute. Only attempt this repair when you have enough time and patience to do it properly. You will be dealing with 240 volts - that’s twice as much power as flows through your regular household circuits. Therefore only attempt this repair with another adult present.

If you feel confident in your ability to safely replace an oven element then try the following method:

1… Disconnect range from electrical power, either by unplugging or turning off breakers. Pull range out of counter top so that the sides and rear can be accessed.

2… Remove rear panel of range making note if any screws are different types or lengths. Removing the rear panel will expose the element wiring and allow you to identify which element you suspect being burnt out.

3… Carefully remove the element wiring. They are usually screwed on connections. Avoid breaking the connections or stripping the screw head with your screwdriver.

4… Go to the front of the range. Locate the screws securing the element within the oven cavity. This may require a flashlight because they are usually covered in debris. Again use caution not to harm the screw heads. The screws may be very tight and may require patience to remove without harming. If the screws can't be removed they will have to be drilled out using a high-speed drill. If this becomes necessary use caution to avoid chipping the oven interior.

5… Remove the oven element. If it’s broken avoid touching the pieces with your bare hands because they can be very sharp. Plus, the white powdered insulation contains harmful chemicals. If the part is going to be transported place it inside a large plastic or paper bag.

6… Proceed to an appliance parts store to obtain a replacement. Avoid buying the element from other sources (such as hardware store) because the quality is often inferior. Before going to the parts store make certain you have your make, model, and serial number. Manufacturers use a vast variety of elements. Each model, type, configuration, and wattage requirements will determine which element was installed in your range.

7… Once back home install the new element and secure it with the mounting screws. If the holes in the mounting plate don’t align with the ones in the oven you will have to drill holes in the cabinet interior. This can be accomplished by using the holes in the elements mounting plate as a guide. Carefully drill holes into the cabinet using a high-speed drill. Use caution not to let drill slip to avoid damaging or chipping the interior liner.

8… From the rear of the range reconnect the element wiring. Don’t bend the electrical connections or allow the screws to strip the threads. If the wiring is burnt the insulation must be cut back to expose undamaged wire. Cut the insulation back using a knife or wire-stripping tool.

9… With the new element installed plug the range back into the electricity. Start the oven and allow to run for five minutes. Disconnect the electricity again and then quickly feel the wiring insulation at the element connections. They should feel slightly warm, but not hot. A hot connection indicates a poor connection, or the possible failure of other components associated with the oven. If hot, it will be necessary to remove it again and redo. When satisfied with element connections replace the rear panel and reinstall the range into counter.

10… Test the oven operation. All elements should go off and on as per normal. If the element doesn't go off within a reasonable length of time one of the other components in the oven circuit has probably failed. (At this point either call an appliance service company for help or do further troubleshooting to try to determine which other part is defective.)

11… Last step is to test the oven temperature. Place an oven thermometer on the middle rack and set the oven temperature at a regular baking temperature of 350 Degrees Fahrenheit. While keeping the oven door closed allow the oven to cycle off three or four times before verifying the temperature. The thermometer should indicate the same temperature at which the oven dial is set. As a final confirmation that the oven is operating properly do a test run by baking something such as muffins or cookies.

As the preceding has shown, replacing a burnt element is not a difficult repair. But it's certainly one that should only be attempted by someone who is confident around electricity. If you are uncertain about your ability telephone an appliance repairperson for help. They will come prepared with all the necessary parts and equipment and will have your element replaced, tested, and operating in less than an hour.

By Donald Grummett

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