This guide will walk you through troubleshooting and repairing an electric stove burner that isn't heating, focusing on checking the heating element and electrical connections.
30-60 minutes
$15 - $40
Diagnosis
An electric stove burner that fails to heat is often caused by a damaged heating element or a loose electrical connection. The heating element can wear out over time, or a wire supplying power might have become disconnected. This prevents you from using that specific burner, which can be quite inconvenient.
Tools Needed
- Screwdriver set (Phillips and flathead)
- Needle-nose pliers
- Multimeter (optional, for testing continuity)
- Work gloves
- Safety glasses
Warnings
- Always disconnect the power to the stove from the circuit breaker before attempting any repairs. Failure to do so can result in serious electrical shock.
- Ensure the burner and stove-top are completely cool before touching any components to avoid burns.
- If you are uncomfortable working with electrical components, it is best to call a qualified appliance repair technician.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- First and foremost, turn off the power to your stove at the main circuit breaker. It's crucial to never attempt repairs on electrical appliances while they are still connected to a power source.
- If the stove or burner was recently used, give it plenty of time to cool down completely before proceeding.
- Carefully lift the burner grate and then the burner element itself off the stove-top. Some burners simply lift out, while others might require a gentle nudge or have a small tab to release.
- Examine the burner element for any obvious signs of damage, such as cracks, bubbles, or signs of rust.
- Inspect the burner receptacle, where the element plugs in, for any bent or corroded metal contacts. If you see corrosion, gently clean it using a pencil eraser or a soft brush.
- If the burner element looks damaged, it will need to be replaced. Make sure to get a new element that is specifically designed for your stove model.
- Line up the pins on the new burner element with the corresponding slots in the receptacle. Push the element in firmly until it feels securely in place.
- If the burner still doesn't heat up after replacing the element, the problem might be with the control knob mechanism, known as the infinite switch. Replacing this part is a more involved task.
- Put your stove-top back together by replacing the burner and the grate.
- Restore the power to your stove by turning the circuit breaker back on.
- Test the burner by turning it to a low setting for a few minutes to ensure it's working correctly.
Troubleshooting
- If the burner still doesn't heat after replacing the element, check the wiring connections at the back of the stove (requires removing the back panel). Ensure all connections are tight and free of corrosion.
- Use a multimeter to test the continuity of the burner element and the wiring. If the element has no continuity, it's faulty. If the wiring has no continuity, there's a break somewhere in the circuit.
- Test the infinite switch associated with the burner. If it's not sending power to the element when turned on, it likely needs replacement.
Preventive Tips
- Avoid using abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on the burner elements, as they can cause damage.
- Ensure cookware is the correct size for the burner to prevent overheating or uneven heating, which can stress the element.
- Wipe up spills immediately to prevent them from baking onto the burner and potentially causing damage or short circuits.
Brief Summary
This guide provides step-by-step instructions on how to fix an electric stove burner that is not heating. It covers common causes such as a faulty heating element or loose connections, and offers a clear troubleshooting process to help you get your stove back in working order.
Content Details
Keywords: electric stove, burner not heating, repair, heating element, cooking appliance
Meta Description: Discover how to troubleshoot and repair an electric stove burner that won't heat. This guide covers checking the heating element and connections to resolve common issues.
Guide Confidence: High