November 20, 2014

How to replace a radiant element on an electric cooktop

This repair guide provides step-by-step instructions on replacing a radiant surface element in an electric cooktop. Replace the radiant surface element if it's damaged or it doesn't heat when energized by the control. Read through the detailed instructions below before starting, then use a manufacturer-approved electric cooktop part to make the repair.

These steps show how to replace a radiant element in Kenmore, Frigidaire, Electrolux, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, GE, Maytag and Amana electric cooktops.

Quick links

Instructions

Tools required

1/4-inch nut driver

Phillips screwdriver

Work gloves

Repair difficulty

Time required

45 minutes or less

Instructions

01.
Shut off electrical power
Electric cooktops typically have 2 house fuses or a double breaker, one for each 120-volt leg of the 240-volt power. To prevent electrical shock and damage to the cooktop components, remove both fuses or shut off both breakers (if a clip connects the double breakers, shutting off one should shut off both).
02.
Pull the cooktop out of the counter
Use your installation manual to guide you in this step.
Remove the screws from the brackets that hold the cooktop in the counter. Carefully lift the cooktop up and set it on the counter.
03.
Remove the glass top.
Remove the screws that secure the glass top to the burner box. Lift the glass top off of the burner box and set it on a protected surface.
PHOTO: Remove the screws that attach the cooktop to the burner box.
04.
Remove the radiant element
Take a digital picture of the wires attached to the heating element or tag them with labeled masking tape so you can connect them correctly to the new element.
Carefully remove the wires from the element.
Release the locking tabs on the mounting bracket for the radiant element and remove the bracket.
Pull the radiant element off of the main glass top and discard the radiant element.
05.
Install the new radiant element
Position the new radiant element on the cooktop and secure it with the mounting bracket.
Using the digital image or marked tape as a guide, carefully connect the wires to the new element.
06.
Reinstall the glass top
Position the glass top on the burner box and secure it with the mounting screws.
07.
Reinstall the cooktop in the counter
Lower the cooktop into the counter. Reinstall the mounting bracket screws.
08.
Restore power to the cooktop
Turn on the electric power to the cooktop.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.