Beatrice Lang
If your electric cooktop isn't turning on, there may be a problem with the heating element. Before testing, it is important to disconnect the electricity at the fuse panel, circuit breaker panel, or by unplugging the appliance. Once this is done, you can perform a continuity test with a multimeter to determine if the elements are working correctly. This involves sending an electrical signal down one end of the coil and assessing how well the signal reaches the other end. You can also try basic tests such as physically inspecting the coils and checking the temperature with a thermometer. If there are any signs of burning or if there is no continuity, the element should be replaced.
Testing Electric Cooktop Elements
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety Precautions | Ensure the power supply to the appliance is disconnected by turning off the stove's breaker or unplugging the stove. |
| Removal Process | Remove the affected burner element by lifting it from the side opposite its terminals. Take out the drip pan and decorative ring, if present. The burner may slide out of its terminals or have wires connected directly. If there are wires, remove them by unscrewing any attachments to the cooktop, insulator terminals, and burner. |
| Testing | Perform a continuity test with a multimeter or ohmmeter to assess electrical signals. Set the multimeter to the lowest ohms (Ω) setting, usually 200 ohms. Consult the instruction manual for specific guidance. Place the heating element on a non-metal, grounded surface to avoid electric shock. Touch the metal probes to each other, then to the element's terminals. |
| Interpretation | If there is continuity, with readings ranging from 19 to 115 ohms, the element is functioning. If there are no readings or signs of burning, the element should be replaced. |
| Reinstallation | To install a new element, reverse the removal process, ensuring wires are connected to the correct terminals. |
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What You'll Learn
Perform a continuity test with a multimeter
Before performing a continuity test with a multimeter on your electric cooktop, ensure that the power is disconnected at the fuse panel, circuit breaker panel, or by pulling the plug. It is crucial to confirm that the power is off to avoid any electrical hazards.
To begin the continuity test, set up your multimeter by plugging the red cord into the red slot and the black cord into the black slot. The red and black terminals correspond to specific functions and measurements. The red terminal is typically connected to the "mAVΩ" or "AVΩ" slot, which stands for "measure amperage, voltage, ohms." The black terminal is plugged into the "COM" slot, which represents the common ground.
Now, turn your attention to the dial on the multimeter. Adjust the dial to the continuity setting, which may be indicated by a diode symbol (a triangle with a line on the right side) or a symbol resembling sound waves. If your multimeter lacks a dedicated continuity setting, you can still perform the test by turning the dial to the lowest number in resistance mode, which is measured in ohms (Ω).
With the multimeter prepared, it's time to test your electric cooktop elements. Place the heating element on the floor or a wooden table to ensure a safe testing environment. Do not use a metal or ungrounded surface, as it may lead to electrical hazards. Touch the metal probes of the multimeter to each other, and then touch the element's terminals. This process will help you determine if the element is properly receiving electrical signals.
It is important to note that different cooktops may have unique shapes and sizes, but the overall testing process remains consistent. Additionally, oven elements usually consist of a single loop of metal, and the heating elements are the large coils at the top and bottom of the oven.
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Identify the heating elements
To identify the heating elements in your electric cooktop, you must first turn off the electricity at the fuse panel, circuit breaker panel, or by pulling the plug. This is important as a jolt from 220 volts can be fatal. Next, open the oven door and remove the oven racks. Then, remove the screws that hold the element in place.
Heating elements are usually a single loop of metal and are located at the top and bottom of your oven. They come in different shapes and sizes, but the overall steps to identify them remain the same. Look at the very bottom of the oven for a 0.5–1 inch (1.3–2.5 cm) thick metal coil that loops around the bottom. This is the main heating element. If you have a broiler, there will be a second coil attached to the top of the oven.
The heating element on the inside is typically made of Nichrome or a similar alloy, while the surface sheath is often made of Inconel 600 or Inconel 601. The black surface of the heating element is due to the oxidation of metals, which may be done by the manufacturer to prevent discolouration during the high temperatures of cooking.
Once you have identified the heating elements, you can perform a continuity test with a multimeter to determine if they are functioning correctly.
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Check for loose or disconnected wires
Before testing your electric cooktop elements, it is crucial to disconnect the electricity supply at the fuse panel, circuit breaker panel, or by unplugging the appliance. This step is essential for your safety, as you could receive a fatal electric shock if you neglect it. Once you have confirmed that the power is off, you can proceed with the inspection.
To check for loose or disconnected wires, start by removing the oven racks and unscrewing the element you want to examine. Be cautious not to let the wires slip back inside the oven's frame. If this happens, you will need to remove the back door of the oven to retrieve them. Carefully set aside any screws and tilt the element to gain access to the terminals.
Look for any loose or disconnected wires attached to the terminals. If you notice any burnt signs or damage to the wires, it is essential to replace them. If the wires appear intact, reconnect them securely to the back of the terminals. Ensure that the wires are firmly attached and not prone to disconnection.
Additionally, it is important to clean the burner plugs and the inside of the receptacle. Use a small brush and a dry cloth to remove any debris or residue that may have accumulated. After cleaning, allow the components to dry completely before reassembling the cooktop.
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Test for a grounded bake element
To test for a grounded bake element, you must first ensure that you have disconnected the electricity at the fuse panel, circuit breaker panel, or by pulling the plug. It is crucial to confirm that the power is off before proceeding, as a jolt from 220 volts can be fatal.
Once you have ensured that the power is off, you can proceed with the following steps:
- Open the oven door and remove the oven racks.
- Remove the screws that hold the bake element in place. There may be a small amount of excess wiring attached to the terminals, so you might need to tilt the element to get the terminals through the holes.
- Visually inspect the element for any signs of burning or damage.
- If there is no sign of burning or damage, proceed to test the element for continuity.
- Using an ohmmeter or a multimeter, set the range scale on R x 1.
- To test for a grounded bake element, place one probe on the element's outer surface and the other probe on the element terminal.
- If there is continuity, with readings within the acceptable range (typically between 19 and 115 ohms, but this may vary), then the element is grounded.
It is important to consult your manufacturer's specifications and seek professional assistance if you are unsure about any aspect of the testing process.
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Install a new element
Installing a new electric cooktop element can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and instructions, it can be manageable. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
First, ensure that you have the correct replacement element for your specific cooktop model. Refer to your product manual or consult a professional if you are unsure. Before beginning any work, shut off the electrical power from the fuse box. This is a crucial step to prevent any accidents or injuries.
Next, remove the old cooktop element. Disconnect any wiring, taking note of how it is wired, and carefully lift out the old element. Take pictures of the wiring configuration for reference. Once removed, keep all loose parts aside and prepare the new cooktop element for installation.
Now, carefully connect the wires of the new cooktop element to the corresponding wires in the power supply. Typically, the red and black wires are the hot wires, the white wire is the neutral wire, and the green wire is the ground wire. Ensure all connections are secure and use wire nuts to cap the connections.
After wiring, locate the spring clips and screw them into the new cooktop element to hold it in place within the countertop opening. You may also need to apply double-sided adhesive tape to the underside of the cooktop if you have granite countertops. With the help of an assistant, lift the new cooktop into place, ensuring all wiring is tucked within the opening.
Finally, turn on the electrical power to the cooktop and test your new element. If you are unsure about any part of the process, it is always recommended to consult a professional for assistance.
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