How to Replace the Terminal Block in an Electric Stove

You can replace the terminal block of your electric stove without spending too much time and money. It is not difficult if you follow the guidelines given below. 

Step 1 - Safety First 

Disconnect the electric circuit that supplies power to your stove. This should be done before making any repairs to your electric stove. An electric stove has a power of over 220 Volts and it could prove dangerous if you leave the power disconnected.

Step 2 - Remove the Coil Element and Drip Bowl

You have to remove the coil element first. Before you attempt to remove the coil element, make sure that the element is not hot. Try moving your hand all way to the element and touch it to see if it is cool enough for you to remove. If not, wait for it to cool down. Trace the coil with your fingers to find the point where it is attached to the stove. Normally, a 2 prong plug is used to attach the coil to the stove. Gently lift the coil from the drip pan that’s underneath it and with a light tug, pull it away. Once you have dislodged the coil from its position, remove the drip blow that’s located underneath it. A word of caution: don't bend or damage the coil prongs when you pull it out. 

Step 3 - Remove the Old Terminal Block 

With the aid of a screwdriver, remove the screws of the terminal block cover. You may have to lubricate it if the screws are rusted or held tightly in position. Subsequently, the terminal plug should be pulled away from the stove. The old receptacle will now be exposed. 

Step 4 - Cutting Out the Old Receptacle

The next step is to cut out the old receptacles. Again, make sure that the power is disconnected from the stove. Once you have made sure that the power has been disconnected, you have to cut out the wires from the old receptacle. You can cut these wires individually.

Step 5 - Connecting the New Terminal 

• Once you have removed the old receptacle, strip the wires that are on the new receptacle and those located on the stove top.
• Fan out the strands of the wire, as this can help you make a good connection when they’re twisted together. 
• Put on ceramic wire nuts to the wire ends after twisting them together. Using a plastic wire nut that usually has a metal center is not advisable because the heat of the stove will melt the plastic nuts. Having done this, you have to now reattach the terminal plug to the stove.
• Place the terminal block in position. 

Step 6 - Testing the New Connection 

Reconnect the stove and run a test. Your stove should be working if you have followed these steps accurately. 

Replacing the terminal block in an electric range is a job that does not require special skills. While it is not the easiest job, these instructions can help you do it yourself.