How to Change an Element in an Electric Stove

A modern electric range uses metal heating elements, which glow red hot at the turn of a switch. Occasionally, an element burns out; you may or may not get a prior warning that this is about to happen as one part of the element glows brighter than the rest, or only half of the element works. If you notice this, or if the element won't work at all, it's a simple job to replace the old element.

• 1

  Place your thumbs on the edge of the element at the opposite side from where the terminals connect to the stove.

• 2

  Push the back of the element toward the terminals until the hook that holds the element to the retainer in the drip tray is released. Lift the back of the element up and pull it backward to release the terminals from the stove.

• 3

  Position the new element's terminals into the stove connectors and push the terminals in. Lower the back of the element and position the hook into the retainer in the drip tray.

• 4

  Turn the stove on to test the new element.