What happens when an oven element burns out

An oven element is a metal coil or ribbon that heats up when electricity runs through it. Over time—usually after several years of use—the element develops a break in the wire, and electricity can no longer flow through it. When that happens, that part of your oven stops heating.

You'll notice the problem when one section of your oven stays cold while the rest heats normally, or when the oven takes much longer to reach temperature than it used to. Some ovens have a top element and a bottom element; some have both plus a broiler element. Each one can fail independently.

The good news is that replacing an element is one of the most straightforward oven repairs you can do yourself. The element is not hardwired to the oven—it plugs in or bolts in, and you can remove and install a new one in 10 to 15 minutes with no special tools.

Key Takeaways

  • Turn off power to the oven at the circuit breaker before you touch anything inside, and wait a few minutes for the element to cool completely.
  • Take a photo of how the element connects before you remove it, or write down which terminal is which, so you can reconnect the new one the same way.
  • Buy a replacement element that matches your oven's make and model number—elements are not universal, and using the wrong one can damage the oven.
  • The element either slides into a slot and bolts down, or plugs into a terminal block; both methods are straightforward enough to reverse without experience.
  • If the element is fused to the oven wall or if you cannot access the terminals, call a technician rather than force it.

Finding your oven's model number and the correct replacement element

The model number is usually printed on a sticker inside the oven—check the top of the interior walls, the sides, or the back. Write it down or take a photo. You can also find it on the back of the oven if you can pull it out from the wall.

Once you have the model number, search for "[your brand] [model number] replacement element" online, or call the oven manufacturer's parts line with the number. They will tell you which element you need and whether it is a top element, bottom element, or broiler element. Order the part from the manufacturer, a parts supplier like Sears Parts Direct or AppliancePartsPros, or a general retailer like Amazon.

Do not assume all elements are the same. A Whirlpool element will not work in a GE oven, and a 240-volt element will not work in a 120-volt circuit. The part number on the box will match your oven's specifications.

Turning off power and letting the oven cool

Go to your home's electrical panel and find the breaker labeled for the oven or kitchen. Switch it to the OFF position. If the label is unclear, turn off the main breaker instead—it is safer to lose power to the whole house for 15 minutes than to guess.

Wait at least 5 to 10 minutes. Even though the power is off, the element retains heat. Touching it too soon can burn your hand. You can test whether it is cool by holding your hand near it (not touching) and feeling for warmth.

If your oven has a glass door, you can look inside and see the element. If it glows red or orange, it is still hot. Wait longer.

Removing the old element

Open the oven door and look at how the element is mounted. Most elements either slide into a slot at the back or sides of the oven and are held in place by bolts, or they plug into a terminal block (a plastic or ceramic connector with two or three holes).

For a bolted element: You will see one or two bolts or screws holding the element in place. Take a photo of the element and its position before you touch anything. Unscrew the bolts using a wrench or socket that fits them—usually 1/4 inch or 3/8 inch. The element will slide out toward you. Set it aside.

For a plug-in element: The element has two or three metal prongs that fit into a terminal block mounted on the oven wall. Take a photo showing which prong goes into which hole. Gently pull the element straight out. Do not twist or wiggle it side to side; pull straight out. If it is stuck, do not force it—call a technician, because forcing a stuck terminal can break the block and require a much larger repair.

Once the old element is out, look inside the slot or at the terminal block. Wipe away any crumbs or debris with a dry cloth. Do not use water.

Installing the new element

For a bolted element: Slide the new element into the slot, lining it up with the bolt holes. The element should sit flat against the oven wall. Insert the bolts and tighten them by hand first, then use your wrench to snug them down. Do not over-tighten; you want them firm but not so tight that you strip the threads.

For a plug-in element: Look at the photo you took of the old element, or at the terminal block itself—the holes are usually labeled or color-coded. Line up the prongs of the new element with the correct holes. Push straight in until the element is fully seated. You should feel a slight resistance and then a click or snap as it seats. Do not force it; if it does not go in smoothly, check that the prongs are aligned with the holes.

Once the element is installed, close the oven door and go back to the electrical panel. Switch the breaker back to ON.

Testing the new element

Set the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit and let it run for 10 minutes. Open the door and look at the element. It should glow red or orange within a few minutes. If it does not glow, or if it glows only partway along its length, turn off the oven when ready, switch off the breaker, and check that the element is fully seated in its slot or terminal block.

If the element still does not heat after you reseat it, the new element may be defective. Turn off the power, remove it, and contact the supplier for a replacement.

If the element glows and heats normally, let the oven run at 350 degrees for 20 to 30 minutes. The element may smell slightly of manufacturing residue the first time it heats—this is normal and will fade. If you smell burning plastic or see smoke, turn off the oven when ready and call a technician.

When to call a professional instead

If the element is fused or welded to the oven wall and will not slide out, do not try to pry it loose. A technician has tools to remove it without damaging the oven cavity.

If the terminal block is cracked, corroded, or if the prongs of the new element do not fit into the holes, the terminal block itself may need replacement. This is a larger job that usually requires a technician.

If you turn the breaker back on and the oven does not power up at all, or if you smell burning or see sparks, turn the breaker off again and call a technician. Do not attempt further troubleshooting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a universal or generic oven element instead of the manufacturer's part?

No. Oven elements are not universal. The voltage, wattage, and terminal configuration must match your oven exactly, or the element will not heat properly or could damage the oven's electrical system. Always order the part number specified for your model.

How long does a replacement element usually last?

Most oven elements last 5 to 10 years with normal use. The lifespan depends on how often you use the oven and whether you keep it clean. Elements fail faster if the oven is exposed to moisture or if food spills directly on them.

What if only part of the element glows?

If the element glows in some spots but not others, it has a break in the wire and needs to be replaced. A partially working element will not heat the oven evenly and will eventually fail completely.

Do I need to turn off the main breaker, or can I just turn off the oven?

Turning off the oven at the control panel does not cut power to the element itself. You must switch off the breaker at the electrical panel. If you are unsure which breaker controls the oven, turn off the main breaker instead.

What should I do with the old element?

The old element is scrap metal and can be thrown in the trash or recycled at a scrap metal facility. It is not hazardous. Do not try to repair or reuse it.