How to Replace an Oven Heating Element and Broil Element (and When to Do It)

How to Replace an Oven Heating Element and Broil Element (and When to Do It)

If your oven isn’t heating properly, unevenly cooks food, or the broiler won’t turn on, the culprit is often a faulty bake element or broil element. These components are essential for proper cooking performance, and replacing them is a straightforward repair when you know the steps.

Signs Your Oven Heating or Broil Element Needs Replacing

You may need a new element if you notice:

  • The oven isn’t reaching the right temperature.

  • Food cooks unevenly or takes too long.

  • The element shows visible damage (burn marks, blisters, or breaks).

  • The broiler does not turn on, even though the oven still powers up.

  • The element no longer glows red when in use.

If you see any of these issues, it’s time to replace the element with an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part to ensure proper fit and performance.

Tools You’ll Need

  • Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, depending on your oven)

  • Nut driver (in some models)

  • Work gloves

  • OEM replacement heating or broil element

Safety First

  1. Unplug the oven or switch off power at the breaker to avoid electrical shock.

  2. Make sure the oven is completely cool before starting any repair.

Step 1: Locate the Element

  • The bake element is usually found at the bottom of the oven cavity.

  • The broil element is located at the top of the oven cavity.

Step 2: Remove the Old Element

  1. Remove the oven racks to access the element.

  2. Unscrew the mounting screws that hold the element brackets in place.

  3. Gently pull the element forward to expose the electrical connectors.

  4. Carefully disconnect the wires (do not let them slip back into the cavity).

Step 3: Install the New Element

  1. Connect the wires to the terminals of the new heating or broil element.

  2. Push the element back into place and secure it with the mounting screws.

  3. Replace the oven racks.

Step 4: Test the Oven

  1. Restore power to the oven.

  2. Turn on Bake or Broil to confirm the new element glows red and heats correctly.

When to Call a Professional

If the oven still doesn’t heat properly after replacing the element, the issue may be with the thermostat, control board, or wiring. At that point, a professional technician should take a look.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your oven’s heating or broil element is one of the most common and cost-effective repairs you can make. By spotting the signs early and using OEM replacement parts, you can extend the life of your oven and get it cooking like new again.

Visit PRS Parts Inc. at 540 Lagoon Dr. for authentic appliance replacement parts and expert repair assistance.

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