If one of the surface burners on your Samsung electric range is not heating properly, especially if the inner or outer ring is not working, the problem might be the infinite switch. Instead of calling a repair technician right away, you can test and replace the switch yourself. It is a simple process that can save you time and money.
What the Infinite Switch Does
Understanding what the infinite switch controls helps with diagnosing problems and replacing it correctly:
- Regulates power flow to the surface element based on the knob position
- Cycles the heating element on and off to reach the selected temperature
- Manages both inner and outer coils on dual-element burners
- Receives input from the control knob and sends corresponding voltage to the element
- Includes internal contacts that can wear out or burn out over time
- Works independently from the oven or other burners
- Is connected to wiring inside the control panel that may also need inspection
Signs of a Faulty Infinite Switch
Identifying the symptoms of a bad infinite switch can help confirm the issue before you begin. Common signs include:
- Burner only works on high, regardless of the knob setting
- Burner does not heat at all, but other burners do
- Burner turns on and off unpredictably or does not maintain heat levels
- Knob feels loose, damaged, or does not click into settings properly
- Unusual sounds, such as clicking or buzzing, when turning the switch
- Burner indicator light stays on even when the burner is off
- Outer or inner ring of a dual burner does not respond
Tools You Will Need
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Multimeter
Safety Precautions
Before starting, always keep safety in mind. Working with electric appliances involves some risk, so take these steps to stay safe:
- Turn off the power by unplugging the range or switching off the circuit breaker. Never work on a powered appliance.
- Allow the appliance to cool down completely if it was recently used to avoid burns.
- Take your time while working. Rushing increases the chance of mistakes or injury.
- Work in a well-lit area so you can clearly see what you are doing.
- Keep the workspace clean and free from clutter. Make sure pets and children stay away.
- Only work with dry hands, and make sure the area is dry as well.
- Read the user manual for any specific safety or installation instructions related to your appliance or the part you are replacing.
- Handle all parts carefully to prevent damage or injury.
- Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges or debris.
- Avoid touching exposed wires or terminals. Use non-conductive tools or insulated gloves if needed.
- Take photos or make notes of how wires and connections are arranged before disconnecting anything. This will make reassembly much easier.
- Do not attempt to test live voltage with a multimeter unless you are experienced and confident in how to do it safely.
How to Test and Replace the Infinite Switch on a Samsung Electric Range
Here are the steps to test the single infinite switch for faults and replace it if needed.
Testing the Single Infinite Switch
- Unplug the electric range or turn off the circuit breaker.
- Remove the screws holding the rear panel of the control panel.
- Remove the rear panel to access internal components.
- Locate the infinite switch with terminals labeled L1, L2, H1, H2, and P.
- Set your multimeter to measure AC voltage (VAC).
- Plug the range back in or turn the breaker back on.
- Place one multimeter probe on the L1 terminal (double black wire).
- Place the other probe on the L2 terminal (double red wire).
- Check for approximately 240 volts AC between L1 and L2.
- Turn the burner knob to the “on” position.
- Place one probe on the H1 terminal (orange and orange with violet stripe wire).
- Place the other probe on the H2 terminal (yellow wire).
- Check for approximately 240 volts AC between H1 and H2.
- If 240 VAC is present at both L1-L2 and H1-H2, the switch is working.
- If there is no voltage at H1-H2 but there is at L1-L2, the switch is faulty and needs replacement.
- Unplug the range or turn off the breaker before replacing the switch.
Replacing the Infinite Switch
- Disconnect all wires from the faulty switch and note their positions.
- Pull the control knob off the front of the range.
- Remove the two screws holding the switch in place.
- Install the new infinite switch and secure it with the two screws.
- Reattach the control knob.
- Connect the wires to the correct terminals on the new switch: L1, L2, H1, H2, and P.
- Reinstall the rear panel and secure it with screws.
- Plug the range back in or turn the breaker back on.
- Turn on the burner to confirm the new switch operates correctly.
Closing Thoughts
Fixing a burner that won’t heat right might seem like a hassle, but swapping out a bad infinite switch is actually pretty doable once you know the steps. A few basic tools, a little patience, and some careful testing can get your Samsung stove back in working order without a service call. Always take your time, follow safety steps closely, and keep track of where each wire goes. With a clear plan and a calm approach, you can handle the repair with confidence and get back to cooking without frustration.