It’s time to cook dinner and the electric stove burner is not heating. In most cases this is not a detrimental problem, just an inconvenience. Fixing the burner can usually be done within a short time.
The first step to fixing an electric stove burner is to determine the problem. Burner elements come two ways: plugged in or direct wired. The plugged in version has prongs that slide into a receptacle. If wired in, it will be connected by insulated clips.
Fixing Plugged In Burners
There are several steps to determining how to fix the plugged in electric stove burner.
- It is a good idea to plug the burner into one of the other receptacle on the electric stove. If the burner still doesn’t heat, then indeed it is the burner at issue. However, if it does work, then the receptacle is the problem and needs to be replaced.
- Necessary parts can be found at local hardware stores, large appliance retailers, or directly from the manufacturer, and can be replaced according to the directions. For the most part a screw driver and a wire cutter are all that is required.
Fixing Direct Wired Burners
In contrast, a direct wired burner takes a different approach. When the burner is pulled out, there will be two wires connected by white porcelain insulator clips.
- Open the clips by gently prying with a screwdriver and separate the two halves.
- The wiring is typically held in place with screws that can be easily removed. Like the plugged-in version, it is wise to test wired burner element with one of the others on the stove to determine if it is the burner or the receptacle that is bad.
Replacing the Receptacle
While replacing the burner element is a simple fix on an electric stove, changing the receptacle takes a little more work. Some are screwed into the cook top, while others are held in place with a spring steel clamp. A screwdriver is necessary to remove those screwed in, but if held in place with the clamp, simply spread apart the clamp and pull out the receptacle.
Sometimes it is necessary to lift the cooktop in order to access the wiring. Once any screws are removed, it should be easy to lift it straight off from the corners. The cooktop can be propped up with a brace while accessing the wiring. The receptacle can then be removed by cutting the wires. Be certain to label the wires before cutting to know the difference when rewiring.
The new receptacle can be easily replaced by twisting the wires together as well as on the wire nuts according to the manufacturer’s directions. The electric stove cooktop can then be reassembled once it is determined that all parts are working.
Regardless of the type of burner element or receptacle, be sure to unplug the electric stove before performing any repairs. This prevents shock or any electrical surging.
.
Questions of a Do It Yourself nature should be submitted to our
"