The surface element in your electric GE range generates the heat necessary for cooking. Over time, regular use can cause wear and tear, potentially damaging the coil element. If the element fails to heat, heats unevenly, or has a break in the coil, it’s time for a replacement.
The good news is that replacing the surface element is a simple fix you can easily do yourself!
Common Problems That Indicate a Faulty Surface Element
There are a few signs that can point to a faulty surface element, and recognizing them early can save you time and hassle. Look for these common issues:
- Element doesn’t heat up: The most obvious sign that your surface element is damaged is when it doesn’t heat at all. This could be due to a broken coil or a disconnected wire.
- Uneven heating: If the element heats in patches or certain areas don’t get hot, the coil might have damage that’s causing inconsistent heat distribution.
- Visible cracks or breaks: Any cracks or breaks in the element coil are immediate indicators that the part needs to be replaced.
- Burnt or discolored coils: Overheating from extended use can cause coils to burn out, leading to discoloration or even visible damage.
- No power to the element: If the element seems to have no power or shows no response when turned on, the problem could be a faulty connection or a defective element.
What You’ll Need
Although you won’t need specialized tools for this repair, the following items will be helpful:
- Magnetic bowl (to hold removed screws)
- Flashlight
- Cleaning supplies
- Insulated work gloves
- Replacement surface element (check compatibility with your range model)
Safety First
Before beginning any repair work on an appliance, always prioritize safety. Keep these safety tips in mind:
- Power off and unplug the appliance or switch off the circuit breaker to eliminate any risk of electric shock.
- Allow the appliance to cool down if it has been recently used.
- Work carefully to avoid accidents and injury—rushing could lead to mistakes.
- Use a well-lit workspace so you can clearly see and access all parts of your range.
- Clear your workspace of clutter and obstacles, and keep children and pets away from the area.
- Keep your hands dry when handling parts; never work with wet hands.
- Check the user manual for specific instructions or safety tips regarding your appliance or the replacement part.
- Handle parts gently to avoid damage or injury.
- Wear insulated gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges or debris.
- Be cautious around wires, avoid touching exposed wires or terminals. Use non-conductive tools or insulating gloves when necessary.
- Take photos or notes of any wiring connections before disconnecting them for easy reassembly.
How to Replace a Surface Element on a GE Electric Range
Here are the steps to remove a faulty surface element and install a new one safely and correctly.
- Unplug the range from the electrical outlet or turn off the power at the circuit breaker.
- Gently pull up the faulty surface element to remove it from the cooktop.
- Inspect the terminals on the back of the removed element for any signs of burning, pitting, or other visible damage.
- If the terminals are damaged, replace both the surface element and the receptacle it plugs into.
- Check the condition of the receptacle inside the cooktop.
- The receptacle terminals must be clean, straight, and free of damage.
- If the receptacle is damaged, replace it using a compatible kit before proceeding.
- Align the terminals of the new surface element with the openings in the receptacle.
- Gently insert the new element into the receptacle.
- Press down until the element is fully seated and lies flat on the cooktop.
- Plug the range back into the electrical outlet or restore power at the circuit breaker.
- Turn on the control knob for the new surface element to confirm it heats properly.
Maintenance Tips for Your Electric Range
Regular maintenance is crucial to prolong the lifespan of your electric range and prevent future repairs. Here are some helpful tips:
- Clean the surface regularly: Clean your range regularly to prevent grease and food buildup, which can affect the heating performance of the elements.
- Avoid spilling liquids: Be cautious when cooking with liquids. Spilled liquids can cause damage to the heating coils and potentially cause electrical problems.
- Inspect the elements periodically: Check the surface elements every few months for signs of wear, corrosion, or damage.
- Tighten any loose connections: Periodically check the connections of your surface elements. Loose connections can lead to improper heating or even electrical shorts.
- Don’t overload the burners: Avoid placing large pots or pans that exceed the size of the burner. This could cause the element to overheat and wear out faster.
- Replace damaged parts promptly: If you notice any issues with the surface elements, replace them immediately to avoid further damage to your appliance.
Key Takeaways
Replacing a damaged surface element on your GE electric range is easier than you might think. With just a little time and a few basic tools, you can fix it yourself and have your stove working again quickly. There’s no need to pay for a repairman or spend a lot of money. Just follow the simple steps and your range will be good as new. Also, doing some regular maintenance can help prevent future problems and keep your range running smoothly.