Electric Stove Troubleshooting: How to Fix a Non-Functioning Unit

An electric stove that suddenly stops working can be extremely inconvenient. Fortunately, many common electric stove issues can be fixed with some basic troubleshooting and repairs. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most common problems with electric stoves and provide step-by-step instructions on how to diagnose and fix them.

Safety First

Before doing any troubleshooting or repairs on your electric stove, make sure to take the proper safety precautions:

• Disconnect the power supply – Unplug the unit or switch the circuit breaker to the OFF position.
• Give the stove time to cool if it was recently used.
• Wear protective gloves and eyewear.
• Only perform repairs that you are fully comfortable doing – more complex fixes may require a professional.

Troubleshooting the Problem

The first step is to diagnose why your electric stove stopped working. Here are the most common issues and how to pinpoint them:

No Power at All

If none of the burners or oven will turn on, there likely is no power getting to the stove. Here’s how to test this:

• Verify that the wall outlet has power by plugging in a small appliance like a lamp.
• Check your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box – a tripped breaker or blown fuse could cut power.
• Inspect the power cord for damage. Fraying, cuts, or crimping could interrupt electricity.
• Test for voltage using a multimeter. Place the probes into a working outlet or terminal block.

If there is power getting to the stove, continue troubleshooting below.

An Individual Burner Isn’t Working

When just one stove burner isn’t working properly, you’ll want to narrow down whether it’s a problem with the burner unit itself or the switch that controls it.

• Check burner wiring – Disconnect and visually inspect wiring for damage, replace damaged leads.
• Bypass switch – Disconnect burned wires from switch, test burner by connecting leads. If burner then works, the issue is with the switch, if it still doesn’t work, the issue is with the burner unit (heating coil or receptacle).

Oven Not Turning On

For ovens that won’t turn on at all, check the following areas:

• Thermal fuse – This safety device cuts power if oven overheats. Use a multimeter to test continuity. Replace if faulty.
• Oven sensor – Malfunctioning sensor disrupts power. Test resistance with multimeter, replace if necessary.
• Oven control board – Can trigger if shorted. Visually inspect for signs of short, test voltages, replace if faulty board confirmed.

Element Not Heating Properly

If the oven or a burner is getting power but not reaching the proper temperature:

• Inspect the heating element – Check for visual damage like cracks or burnt/broken spots. Perform resistance test, replace element if faulty.
• Check interior receptacle – Clean to remove grime/debris, straighten any bent connectors.

Step-by-Step Fix Instructions

Now let’s go through step-by-step directions for diagnosing and replacing some of the most commonly faulty electric stove parts.

How to Replace a Surface Heating Element

Surface heating elements convert the electrical current running through them into heat. Here is how to test and replace them:

Supplies Needed:

• Multimeter
• Screwdriver
• Replacement heating element

1. Turn power OFF at breaker.
2. Lift out the drip pan underneath heating element.
3. Disconnect and visually inspect wiring. Replace any deteriorated leads.
4. Use multimeter to check resistance across two terminals. Compare to manufacturer specifications – any major deviation indicates it needs replacement.
5. Remove terminal connectors and fasteners securing the element.
6. Lift out old element and install the new replacement element.
7. Reconnect the wires to terminals.
8. Reinstall drip pan and restore power.
9. Test operation of burner on all heat levels.

How to Replace an Oven Heating Element

Similar to surface elements, oven heating elements convert electrical energy into radiant heat within the oven. Here’s how to access and replace a malfunctioning unit:

Supplies Needed:

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Flat head screwdriver
• Replacement heating element
• Hand vac

1. Turn unit OFF at breaker and allow oven to cool completely if recently used.
2. Detach any racks or other contents to access bottom heating element cover (top element has separate instructions in next section).
3. Remove cover plate screws and the cover itself to access inner oven compartment.
4. Vacuum baking debris around heating element area.
5. Disconnect wire leads and screw fasteners to remove faulty element.
6. Install replacement oven heating element, secure fasteners and reconnect wires.
7. Replace cover plate and racks/contents.
8. Restore power and test oven to verify repair.

Tip: Always double check that wire leads are connected to the appropriate replacement part terminals.

How to Replace an Oven Temperature Sensor

The oven sensor monitors temperature inside the oven cavity and communicates back to the control board. If this part fails, the oven may not properly regulate temperature. Here is how to replace an oven sensor:

Supplies Needed:

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Needle nose pliers
• Replacement oven sensor

1. Turn unit OFF at breaker and allow oven to cool completely if recently used.
2. Unscrew and open the oven door to access interior compartment.
3. Locate sensor inside back wall of oven cavity, remove screws securing sensor in place.
4. Pull out existing sensor, gently prying it loose if necessary. Disconnect wire leads.
5. Connect replacement sensor wire leads following wiring diagram to avoid mismatch. Secure replacement sensor with mounting screws.
6. Close oven door, restore power and test unit set to 350°F, confirm interior temp matches setting.

How to Replace an Electric Stove Infinite Switch

If one burner isn’t getting electricity, the infinite switch could be faulty. Follow these instructions to replace stove top infinite switches:

Supplies Needed:

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Replacement Infinite switch
• Multimeter

1. Turn unit OFF at breaker and allow cooktop surface to cool completely.
2. Remove control knobs with light upward pressure.
3. Unscrew switch mounting fasteners and gently pry loose switch.
4. Label and disconnect wiring, check switch terminals for continuity using a multimeter. Replace if faulty.
5. Connect replacement switch wires matching existing wiring colors/layout.
6. Secure new infinite switch with mounting screws, reinstall knobs.
7. Restore power and test burner function on all heat levels to confirm repair.

When to Call a Professional

While many basic electric stove repairs can be done safely as a DIY project, there are some instances where you should call in a technician:

• Complex disassembly required – Professional service may be needed if you have to substantially dismantle the unit to access internal parts. This varies by stove model.
• Diagnosis assistance – If you followed troubleshooting steps but were unable to diagnose the specific failed part. Describing issues over the phone can help a pro determine the issue.
• Electrical expertise required – Only undertake wiring repairs and electrical testing if you are fully competent and comfortable doing so, otherwise leave it to an appliance repair specialist for safety reasons.
• Unique repair situations – Older or less common electric stove models may have very specific repair procedures that are best handled by a service pro experienced working on that unit.

Knowing when DIY isn’t the safe or smart option and calling in an expert can save you money and prevent harm.

Preventing Future Electric Stove Issues

Completing repairs can get your electric stove back up and running again, but you’ll want to take preventative steps to maximize the lifespan of your appliance and avoid repeat issues in the future:

• Keep it clean – Regularly remove baked on debris and grease accumulation. Pay special attention to drip bowls, heating elements and range hood ventilation.
• Self diagnostic tests – Some models have built in checks you can run monthly to detect issues early. Consult your owner’s manual on what’s available.
• Vent properly – Ensure your kitchen is adequately ventilated when operating the stove using vents/hoods. Prevent moisture build up that can damage electric components.
• Handle with care – Avoid rough handling that can loosen internal connections and lead to early failure.
• Check cord – Don’t let pets or children chew on the power cord, check that connections are tight.
• Catch problems early – Don’t ignore symptoms like uneven heating or hot spots indicating potential issues. Address promptly before causing permanent damage.

Keeping your electric stove well maintained combined with replacing parts as needed will help it run reliably for years to come.

Also Read: 10 Safety Tips for Using Your Electric Stove

Conclusion

Electric stoves provide years of reliable service for cooking meals, but occasional issues can arise. By using the troubleshooting tips and repair guides covered in this article, you can save the hassle and expense of replacing the entire appliance and keep your electric stove back up and running smoothly.

Remember to always put safety first – allow the unit to fully cool, disconnect power, and use caution when testing and handling electrical components. Know when DIY repairs are advisable for your skill level vs. calling in a professional. And be sure to keep your electric stove well maintained with regular cleaning and self checks to avoid problems before they start.