Whirlpool Electric Range Broil Element Not Heating: How to Test and Replace

Having trouble broiling? This Whirlpool electric range broil element guide shows how to test, diagnose, and replace it easily.

By
Kris Escueta
Kris Escueta
Kris Escueta
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If your electric Whirlpool range is not heating properly, the broil element might be the problem. Here is how to test and replace it like a pro.

Signs Your Broil Element Might Be Bad

Watch for these common signs that your broil element is failing:

  • Food cooks unevenly or not at all when using the broil setting
  • The broil element does not glow red when turned on
  • Visible damage like blistering, cracking, or burn marks on the broil element
  • Unusual noises like popping or buzzing when the broil function is on
  • A tripped breaker or a burnt smell coming from the oven during broil mode

What You Will Need

  • Multimeter
  • Phillips screwdriver
  • 1/4 inch nut driver

Safety First

Before starting, follow these important safety tips:

  • Unplug the range or turn off the circuit breaker to avoid electrical shock.
  • Let the appliance cool completely before you begin.
  • Work carefully in a well lit and clutter free space.
  • Keep children and pets away from your work area.
  • Use dry hands and tools at all times.
  • Read your user manual for model specific safety instructions.
  • Handle all parts gently to prevent damage.
  • Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
  • Avoid touching exposed wires. Use insulated tools if you need to move or disconnect anything.
  • Take photos or write down how wires are connected before you disconnect them.
  • If you are not familiar with safe multimeter use, do not attempt live voltage tests.

How to Diagnose and Replace a Broil Element in a Whirlpool Electric Range

Follow these steps to test and replace the broil element in your Whirlpool electric range.

How to Check if the Broil Element Is Bad

  1. Carefully pull the range away from the wall to access the back panel.
  2. Unplug the range from the electrical outlet.
  3. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screw at the bottom of the terminal block shield.
  4. Push the terminal block shield down, pull it away from the range, and set it aside.
  5. Use the nut driver to remove all screws securing the back oven panel, starting from the bottom.
  6. Carefully lift and remove the back panel and set it aside.
  7. Plug the range power cord back into the outlet.
  8. Set a multimeter to Volts AC mode.
  9. Set the oven control to the Broil setting.
  10. Place the multimeter probes on each wire connected to the broil element.
  11. Check the multimeter reading. If the broil element receives 240 volts AC but does not heat, it needs to be replaced. If there is no voltage, the problem may be with the oven control or wiring.

How to Replace the Broil Element

  1. Unplug the range from the electrical outlet.
  2. Open the oven door and remove all oven racks.
  3. Move the hinge locks at the base of the door to the unlocked position.
  4. Lift the door to about a 45-degree angle.
  5. Rotate the door slightly toward the oven and pull it out to detach it from the hinges.
  6. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the mounting screws that hold the broil element to the oven wall.
  7. Carefully pull the broil element forward, making sure the connected wires come through with it.
  8. Remove the wires from the terminals of the old broil element.
  9. Attach the wires securely to the terminals of the new broil element.
  10. Push the new broil element into the oven until the mounting bracket is flush against the oven wall.
  11. Secure the broil element with the mounting screws.
  12. Reinsert the oven racks into the oven.
  13. Reattach the oven door by aligning the door hinges with the receivers and inserting them.
  14. Rotate the door down until it is flat.
  15. Move the hinge locks back to the locked position.
  16. Reinstall the back oven panel using the screws you removed earlier.
  17. Insert the terminal block shield into its slots, lift it into place, and secure it with the screw.
  18. Plug the range back into the outlet or turn the breaker back on.

Also Read: How to know if your Whirlpool range broil element is bad

The Bottom Line

A broil element that does not heat can throw off your whole cooking routine. Luckily, testing and replacing it is a job you can handle with the right tools and some basic know-how. Follow these steps, stay focused, and your range will be working like new again before you know it.