How to Replace Burners on an Electric Stove

It's simple to test and replace electric stove burners.

A dedicated circuit provides the electricity to heat the burners on your electric stove. Metal burners expand and contract as they heat and cool. Eventually, all stove burners wear out and must be replaced. There is an easy way to test a stove burner to be certain it's defective before you buy a replacement. Testing and replacing these burners is simple for homeowners and tenants with electric ranges.

Instructions

1. Allow the stove to cool completely before working on the burners. Shut off the power to the range with the breaker switch to avoid accidental burns or electric shock. The breaker switch, inside your breaker box, should be labeled. Use the main switch to shut off power if the stove breaker cannot be identified.

2. Remove the inoperative burner by lifting the end opposite the opening in the drip pan for the two connectors. Pull the burner away from the opening to unplug the connectors from the socket under the metal range top.

3. Test the burner by removing a working electric burner of the same size from the stove top and plugging the nonfunctioning burner into its socket. Restore the power and turn on the burner to see whether it heats in the other socket. If the burner lights, then the problem is in the stove wiring or the socket. Consult a qualified appliance repair professional for service. If the burner does not heat in the socket of a working burner, then it must be replaced. Shut off the power and remove the worn out burner.

4. Purchase a replacement burner of equal size. Standard electric stove burners are made in 8-inch and 6-inch sizes.

5. Plug the new burner into the socket. Turn the power to the stove back on and turn on the burner to test it.

Tips & Warnings

• Shop for price differences in electric burners for ranges. There is a wide price difference on electric burners between some online dealers, hardware retailers, appliance stores, department stores and home supply centers.

References

• Home Tips: Electric Cooktop: Surface Element Doesn't Work