How to Replace a Broken Oven Heating Element in 30 Minutes
Signs Your Oven Heating Element Needs Replacing
If your oven isn't reaching the set temperature, is heating unevenly, or isn't heating at all, the bake or broil element is the most likely culprit. Here are the telltale signs:
- The element doesn't glow red when the oven is on
- You can see visible damage — blistering, cracks, or breaks in the element
- The element has a burn spot or hole
- The oven takes much longer than usual to preheat
- Food cooks unevenly — one side burns while the other is underdone
Tools You'll Need
- Phillips head screwdriver or ¼-inch nut driver
- Multimeter (optional, for testing)
- Work gloves
Step-by-Step Replacement Guide
Step 1: Safety First
Turn off the oven and unplug it from the wall outlet, or turn off the circuit breaker. For gas ovens with an electric igniter, also turn off the gas supply. Never work on an oven that's plugged in.
Step 2: Remove the Oven Racks
Take out all oven racks to give yourself room to work.
Step 3: Remove the Old Element
The bake element is at the bottom of the oven. It's held in place by 2-4 screws at the back wall where the element connects. Remove these screws and gently pull the element forward a few inches to expose the wire connectors. Do not pull too hard — you don't want to damage the wires.
Step 4: Disconnect the Wires
You'll see two wire terminals connected to the element. Note which wire goes where (take a photo with your phone). Carefully pull the wire connectors off the element terminals. If they're tight, use needle-nose pliers.
Step 5: Install the New Element
Connect the wires to the new element's terminals, push the element back into position, and secure it with the mounting screws.
Step 6: Test It
Plug the oven back in, turn it on to 350°F, and verify that the new element glows evenly red. It should reach temperature in 10-15 minutes.
Bake Element vs. Broil Element
Ovens have two heating elements: the bake element at the bottom (used for most cooking) and the broil element at the top. The replacement process is the same for both. The broil element is easier to access since it's at the top of the oven cavity.
Cost Comparison
A replacement oven element costs $15-$50 depending on your oven model. A professional service call to replace it typically costs $150-$300. That's a significant savings for a repair that takes about 30 minutes.
Find Your Oven's Heating Element
Search your oven's model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the exact bake or broil element for your model.