Frigidaire Oven Bake Element Failure: Causes and Solutions

Is your oven failing to bake your favorite dishes? If the bake element in your electric Frigidaire range isn’t heating, several possible issues could be causing the problem. The bake element itself, faulty control, wiring problems, or incorrect voltage might be the culprit.

Before calling for professional repair, follow this step-by-step troubleshooting guide to get your oven working again.

Common Causes of a Bake Element Failure

Understanding the possible reasons behind a faulty bake element can help identify the problem more quickly. Here are some common causes:

• Burned-Out Bake Element: A visible break, blistering, or charred area on the element often means it has failed and needs replacement.
• Loose or Damaged Wiring: Corroded, disconnected, or burned wires may prevent the element from receiving power.
• Faulty Oven Control Board: The control board sends voltage to the bake element. If it malfunctions, the element won’t heat.
• Defective Thermostat: A faulty thermostat may inaccurately read the temperature, causing the oven to stop heating properly.
• Broken Temperature Sensor: Some models have a sensor that helps regulate heat. If it malfunctions, the bake element may not receive power.
• Tripped Circuit Breaker: A power issue can prevent the oven from heating. Checking the circuit breaker is a quick first step.
• Faulty Selector Switch: If your oven has a bake/broil selector switch, a malfunction could prevent the bake element from activating.
• Incorrect Voltage Supply: If your home’s power supply isn’t delivering the correct voltage, the bake element won’t function as expected.

Tools You’ll Need

• Multimeter
• 1/4-inch nut driver

Safety Precautions Before You Start

When working on any appliance, safety should always come first. Follow these guidelines to protect yourself and prevent damage to your range:

• Turn Off the Power: Unplug the range or switch off the circuit breaker before performing any maintenance. This prevents the risk of electric shock.
• Let It Cool: If the oven was recently used, give it enough time to cool before working on it.
• Work Carefully: Avoid rushing. Taking your time improves accuracy and prevents injuries.
• Use Proper Lighting: A well-lit workspace makes it easier to see and access parts.
• Keep the Area Clear: Remove any obstacles, and keep children and pets away.
• Avoid Moisture: Never work on internal parts with wet hands, and keep the area dry.
• Read the User Manual: Your oven’s manual may have specific safety instructions for troubleshooting and part replacement.
• Handle Parts Gently: Excessive force can damage components or cause injury.
• Wear Protective Gear: Insulated gloves protect your hands from sharp edges and debris. Safety glasses and a dust mask can help when working with dust or chemicals.
• Be Cautious with Wiring: Never touch exposed wires or terminals directly. If handling wires, use insulated tools or gloves.
• Multimeter Use: If you’re unfamiliar with testing live voltage, avoid doing so to prevent accidental short circuits.

How to Troubleshoot a Frigidaire Electric Range When the Bake Element Won’t Heat

Follow these steps to diagnose and fix issues with a Frigidaire electric range that is not heating properly due to a faulty bake element.

Step 1. Access the Parts

1. Unplug the range from the power source.
2. Locate the upper rear panel.
3. Use a screwdriver or nut driver to remove all the 1/4-inch screws securing the panel.
4. Set the panel off to the side.

Step 2. Test for Voltage

WARNING: This step requires testing live voltage. Use caution. If unsure, seek professional assistance.

5. Plug the range back into the power source.
6. Turn the oven on.
7. Set the multimeter to Volts AC mode.
8. Locate the control board inside the console at the back of the range.
9. Identify the L1 (black wire) and L2 (red wire) terminals on the board.
10. Place one multimeter probe on L1 and the other on L2.
11. Check the voltage reading. It should read 240 Volts AC.
12. Leave one probe on L1 and move the other to J1 pin 4 (white wire).
13. Check the voltage reading. It should read 120 Volts AC.
14. Leave the probe on the white wire and move the other probe to the L2 in the terminal.
15. Check the voltage reading. It should read 120 Volts AC.

16. If the voltage readings are correct, move to Step 3 – Test the Bake Element.
17. If the voltage reading between L1 and L2 is 0V or 120V, check the breaker, power outlet, or power cord for issues.

Step 3. Test the Bake Element

18. Unplug the range from power.
19. Remove the remaining screws on the back panel.
20. If the power cord blocks panel removal, disconnect it from the terminal block.
21. Once the panel is off, reconnect the power cord to the terminal block before testing.
22. Set the multimeter to Volts AC mode.
23. Locate the bake element terminals.
24. Remove one wire from the bake element.
25. Place one multimeter probe on the disconnected wire. Keep it from touching any metal surface.
26. Place the second probe on the bake element terminal where the other wire is still attached.
27. Plug the range back in and select a bake cycle.
28. Check the voltage reading. It should be 240 Volts AC.

29. If 240V is present, proceed to resistance testing.
30. If no voltage is detected, the control board may be faulty.

Step 4. Test the Bake Element Resistance

31. Unplug the range again.
32. Set the multimeter to resistance (Ω) mode.
33. Keep one wire disconnected from the element.
34. Place each multimeter probe on the two bake element terminals.
35. Check the resistance reading. It should be around 22 ohms (Ω).
36. If the meter shows OL (open line/circuit) or an unacceptable resistance value, replace the bake element.

Step 5. Determine Next Steps Based on Findings

37. If the voltage at the bake element is good and resistance is normal, inspect the control board and wiring for faults.
38. If voltage is present but the element shows an open circuit (OL), replace the bake element.
39. If no voltage is reaching the element, the control board or wiring may be faulty and require replacement.

Also Read: 5 Common Reasons Your Oven is Cooking Unevenly

The Bottom Line

Skipping the troubleshooting steps could waste time and money. Taking a careful approach can get your Frigidaire oven working again. If nothing fixes the problem, calling a professional might be the best option. Now you know what to look for and how to handle it.