Tools and Materials
Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.
Key Takeaways
- Common signs that an oven element has failed include: visible damage, slow preheating, uneven heating or not heating at all.
- Before an element is replaced, test to ensure that's indeed the issue.
- If the element is the problem, match the replacement element to the oven’s exact model number.
- Next, unplug the oven and disconnect power at the breaker.
- Remove the mounting screws and pull the element forward.
- Take a photo of the wire placement before disconnecting the old element.
- Install the new element.
- During the first heating cycle, the coating on the element can smoke or emit a burning smell. This is normal.
Confirm the Element Is the Problem
Not every heating problem is caused by the oven element. If the element is physically damaged, then it should be replaced. Here are some other signs of a bad oven element.
Common Signs
- Sections of the element no longer glow
- The oven heats slowly or unevenly
- Visible blistering or bubbling
- Bright sparking during use
- Breaks or cracks in the oven element
- Burn marks
- Bake or broil stops working entirely
Other Possible Causes
If the oven element appears normal, the issue could be the control board, a wiring problem, a thermal fuse or the temperature sensor.
Test the Element
If you have a multimeter, test the element for before replacing it.
Step 1: Turn off the power to the oven
Step 2: Remove the element wires
Step 3: Set the multimeter to continuity or resistance (ohms)
Step 4: Touch the probes to both terminals
The element may still be good if the results come back as low resistance/continuity. The element needs to be replaced if the results show no continuity.
Remove the Oven Bake Element or Broil Element
Before you begin, identify your electric range's manufacturer and model number. If it's possible, take note of the element's part number, which can be found in the manual or on a digital parts list.
The packaging on the oven heating element replacement will list the manufacturer, model number and part number it replaces. Double-check that these numbers match your notes so that you have the correct oven element replacement.
Let's Get Started
If you're ready to replace your oven element, shop online or visit your local Lowe's for all your tools and materials.
If it's time for a new range, Lowe's has a wide selection of gas, electric and induction ranges to choose from. We can also deliver and install it for you.
More Info
Select the best range, oven and cooktop with this helpful guide.
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