The heating element plays a key role in your oven, generating the heat needed to cook your food. Like any other appliance part, it can wear out over time, leading to uneven cooking or a completely cold oven. This article explains the signs of a faulty heating element and shares some practical tips to help you fix the issue.
What Is a Stove Heating Element?
Before diving into the signs of a broken heating element, it’s helpful to understand its role in an oven. In electric ovens, the main element, called the baking coil, is usually attached to the back wall near the bottom. There’s also a broiling element near the top, and both work together to distribute heat evenly.
For electric ranges, the stovetop burners also count as heating elements. You can replace these coils by unplugging the old one and plugging in a new one. Regularly cleaning these elements helps them work properly, but wear and tear causes them to malfunction over time.
Signs of a Broken Heating Element
Identifying a faulty heating element early can save you money on repairs. Here are five clear signs that your oven’s heating element is broken:
1. The Element Isn’t Bright Orange
When heating the oven, the heating element should glow a bright orange color within about 10 minutes of reaching the set temperature. This orange glow indicates the element is functioning correctly and producing heat.
If the element doesn’t turn bright orange or only parts glow, it’s likely burned out and needs replacement. Confirm this with a visual inspection when the oven is on. For a more definitive answer, perform a continuity test using a multimeter, though this may require professional assistance.
2. The Element Shows Signs of Wear
If you notice physical damage to your oven’s heating element, that’s a strong sign something’s wrong. Keep an eye out for burns or scorch marks, which suggest the element has overheated at some point. Blistering on the surface indicates wear from excessive heat or age. Cracks or breaks in the element are a sure sign it’s time for a replacement.
3. Food Isn’t Cooking Properly
Uneven or incomplete cooking is often a sign of a failing heating element. If your food comes out undercooked, the heating element is not distributing heat evenly or failing to reach the correct temperature.
However, before assuming the heating element is at fault, use an oven thermometer to compare the actual temperature to the set temperature. If there’s a significant discrepancy, the oven may need calibration, or the temperature sensor needs replacement. Additionally, make sure no obstructions inside the oven are interfering with the heat distribution.
4. The Oven Is Excessively Dirty
While a dirty oven doesn’t necessarily mean the heating element is broken, excessive buildup affects the oven’s performance and damages the element. Thoroughly clean the oven before replacing any parts.
If cleaning doesn’t improve the oven’s performance or the buildup is too severe to remove, consider replacing the heating element or the appliance. An overly dirty oven can mask other issues, so make regular cleaning a part of your oven maintenance routine.
5. Unexpected Increase in Electricity Bills
A sudden spike in electricity usage could indicate that the oven’s heating element is malfunctioning. When a heating element starts to fail, it draws more power than usual to maintain temperature, leading to higher energy bills.
However, an increase in electricity costs isn’t always due to the oven. Other appliances or electrical issues could be the culprit. If you suspect the oven is the cause, have a professional electrician or appliance repair service diagnose the problem.
When To Replace Vs. Repair
When deciding whether to replace the heating element or invest in a new oven, consider these factors:
- Age of the oven: If the oven is more than 10–15 years old, replacing the entire appliance might be more cost-effective in the long run.
- Cost of repair: Compare the cost of a new oven to the price of a new heating element (typically around $275, according to Angi) and installation.
- Overall condition: If the oven has other issues or is outdated, you may need to replace it.
- Energy efficiency: Newer models are more energy-efficient, saving money on utility bills over time.
How To Replace an Oven Heating Element
Here is a guide on how to replace an oven heating element:
Safety First
Before attempting any repairs, make sure the oven is unplugged or the power is off at the circuit breaker. Allow the oven to cool completely before working on it. Use safety gloves and goggles to protect against sharp edges or electrical components.
Remove the Old Element
Find the heating element inside your oven. It’s typically secured with screws or brackets. Once you’ve located it, remove the screws or fasteners holding the element in place. Gently pull the element forward to access the wires connected to the back. Before disconnecting anything, take a photo or jot down how the wires connect to help with reinstallation. Carefully disconnect the wires and remove the old heating element.
Install the New Element
Start by connecting the wires to the new heating element and fastening them securely. Gently push the wires back into the oven cavity. Once the wires are in place, position the new element and secure it with the screws or brackets. Double-check all the connections and make sure the element is firmly in place.
Test the New Element
Plug the oven back in. Turn it on and set it to a medium temperature. Watch the new element to make sure it heats up and starts glowing orange. After that, check that the oven reaches and maintains the set temperature with a thermometer.
While replacing a heating element is a task many homeowners can handle, those uncomfortable with electrical work should consider hiring a professional appliance repair service.
Preventing Heating Element Damage
Extend the life of your oven’s heating element by following a few simple preventive steps:
- Clean the oven regularly to avoid buildup that could damage the heating element.
- Avoid abrasive cleaners, which scratch and harm the heating element’s surface.
- Avoid lining the bottom of the oven with foil, which leads to overheating.
- While the self-cleaning feature may seem convenient, use it sparingly since the extreme heat puts unnecessary strain on the heating element.
Final Thoughts About Oven Heating Elements
If you have oven issues, it’s worth investigating the heating element as a potential culprit, but a broken heating element doesn’t always signal the end of your oven’s life. Spotting the signs of a faulty element early allows you to fix the issue with a simple replacement, saving time and money. However, when in doubt, consult a professional appliance repair service for assistance.
