Beginner’s Guide: How to Replace Electric Stove Elements

Key Highlights

• Changing a broken electric stove element is an easy DIY task, even if you are a beginner.
• The steps usually include turning off the power, taking out the old element, and putting a new one in.
• It is very important to make sure the power to the stove is turned off completely before starting the repair.
• You need to have the right replacement element for your specific stove model before you start.
• With some simple tools and careful attention to the steps, you can replace your stove element and make your stovetop work again.

Introduction

Electric burners are important parts of stoves that heat food. The heating element changes electrical energy into heat. As time goes by, these heating elements can get used up and need to be replaced. This easy guide will show you how to replace electric stove element safely and effectively.

Understanding Electric Stove Elements

Electric burners, especially KitchenAid stoves, use a heating element. This is a special wire coil that gets hot when electricity flows through it. The heat then moves to the cooking surface, letting you cook your food.

The heating element is usually under a protective ceramic or metal plate. This plate spreads the heat evenly and provides a flat surface for your pots and pans. If an electric burner does not heat up, the problem is often with the heating element.

Types of Electric Stove Elements and Their Differences

The basic idea is the same, but there are different types of stove elements made for specific jobs and stove models.

• Coil Elements: These are the most common type. They have a coiled heating part that is out in the open. You usually find coil elements on normal electric stoves, and they are cheap to replace.
• Smoothtop Elements: These elements are made for smoothtop or glass-ceramic cooktops. They sit under the glass top, making them less visible. Smoothtop elements look sleek and modern, but they can cost more to replace than coil elements.

It is important to know the type of element your stove uses when you need to buy a replacement.

Identifying Signs of Malfunction

A broken stove element can cause problems while cooking and might even be dangerous. Here are some key signs that show you need to replace the heating element:

• Uneven Heating: If your burner heats up in spots, takes a while to get hot, or does not warm up at all, it likely means the element is broken.
• Visible Damage: If you see cracks, blisters, or discoloration on the heating element, it’s a clear sign you need to replace it.
• Burning Smell or Smoke: If you notice a strange burning smell or see smoke from the burner, it indicates an issue with the element. This needs your attention right away.

Preparing to Replace Your Electric Stove Element

Before you start replacing the heating element, get all the tools and materials you need. This way, the repair will be easier and quicker. Having everything ready will help you save time.

Make sure you buy the right new heating element that works with your stove model. Using the wrong element could cause problems or harm your appliance.

Safety First: Disconnecting Power

Safety must always come first when you use electrical appliances. Before you start working on your stove, make sure the power is completely off. This way, you can avoid any risk of electrical shocks while you handle the heating element.

Find the circuit breaker box in your home. Look for the breaker that controls your stove’s power supply. Turn it off to stop the electrical flow. For extra safety, think about putting a note on the breaker box. This will remind others not to turn the power back on while you are working.

To check if the power is off, try turning on the stovetop burner. If it does not heat up, that means the power is off for sure.

Tools and Materials Needed

Having the right tools and materials readily available can make the heating element replacement process significantly smoother. Gathering the necessary items beforehand ensures that you’re well-equipped to tackle each step.

Here’s a list of essential tools and materials you’ll need:

Having these items on hand ensures a more efficient and hassle-free replacement process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Electric Stove Elements

Now that you have set up your work area and collected what you need, you can start changing your electric stove elements. The process includes taking out the broken element and putting in the new heating element. It’s important to connect everything correctly and fasten it securely.

Follow these easy steps to safely and correctly replace your stovetop element.

Step 1: Removing the Damaged Element

Once you have safely turned off the power to your appliance, start by removing the broken heating element. The steps may be a little different based on your stove model, but the basic ideas are the same.

Begin by taking out any screws that hold the element to the stovetop. In some models, clips or brackets might keep the element in place, and you’ll need to let go of those. Carefully pull the element up and away from the stovetop to see the electrical connections.

If the wires are connected to the element with spade connectors, use needle-nose pliers to hold the metal part and gently pull it off. Do not pull on the wires to keep them from getting damaged. After you disconnect the wires, you can fully take out the broken heating element.

Step 2: Connecting the New Element

With the old heating element taken out, you can put in the new heating element. Make sure it is aligned correctly and the connections are secure.

Carefully line up the new heating element with the mounting points on the stovetop. Gently place the terminals of the element into their slots, making sure they fit well. If your element has spade connectors, attach the stove wires to the terminals. Press the connectors firmly onto the metal probes. Make sure they are tight.

After securing the connections, lower the new element gently into place. Tighten the screws to hold it in position, but do not make them too tight.

Step 3: Testing the New Element

After you change the heating element, it’s important to check if the new element is working well. This step keeps you safe and shows that the change was successful.

Start by looking over your work. Make sure all connections are tight and the new heating element is installed correctly. Check for any loose wires or parts.

When you feel sure about the installation, switch the power back on at the circuit breaker. Set a low heat level on the burner control knob and watch the new element. It should heat up evenly and slowly turn red as it reaches the right temperature.

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing how to replace electric stove elements is easy if you have the right info. If you know the types of elements, when they are not working, and the safety steps, you can do the replacement. Following a guide step by step will help you to do it right. If you need more DIY tips, feel free to check out our blogs about the KitchenAid gas stove keeps going out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my stove element needs replacing?

Some usual signs that your stove element is not working properly include uneven heating, cracks or blisters on the surface, and a burning smell coming from the element. If you notice these signs, it means you may need a heating element replacement.

Can I replace an electric stove element myself?

Yes, changing a stove element is an easy DIY project. If you don’t feel good about working with electric appliances, you should call a skilled appliance repair person for help.

What tools will I need to replace an electric stove element?

To change your electric stove element, you need some simple tools. Get a non-contact voltage tester, a screwdriver, needle-nose pliers, and the new heating element. Having these items ready will help you replace the heating element smoothly.