Samsung Electric Range Cooktop Element Not Heating? Here’s What to Check

If your Samsung electric range cooktop element isn’t heating up, don’t worry. You might be able to fix it yourself without calling a repair technician. With a few basic tools and careful attention, you can often get it working again.

What You’ll Need

• Phillips head screwdriver
• Flathead screwdriver
• Multimeter

Safety First

Before working on any appliance, your safety comes first. Keep these guidelines in mind:

• Turn off the power. Unplug the appliance or switch off the circuit breaker to eliminate the risk of electric shock.
• Let it cool completely if it was recently used.
• Take your time. Rushing can lead to mistakes or injuries.
• Work in a well-lit space so you can clearly see what you’re doing.
• Clear your workspace of clutter and keep children and pets out of the area.
• Keep your hands dry, and make sure the surrounding area is not wet.
• Read your user manual for any model-specific instructions before beginning.
• Handle parts gently. Applying too much force can cause damage or injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp edges or metal parts.
• Avoid touching exposed wires or terminals. If you need to, use non-conductive tools or gloves designed for electrical work.
• Take photos or notes of how wires and components are connected before disconnecting anything.
• Skip live voltage tests with a multimeter unless you’re confident in how to do it safely.

How to Troubleshoot a Samsung Range Cooktop Element That Won’t Work

Follow these steps to identify why a cooktop element on your Samsung range isn’t working and how to fix it safely and accurately.

1. Access the Infinite Switch

1. Unplug the range from the wall outlet.
2. Remove the screws securing the rear panel behind the control panel.
3. Take off the rear panel to expose the infinite switch.
4. Locate the five terminals labeled L1, L2, H1, H2, and P.

2. Test the Infinite Switch (Live Voltage)

5. Plug the range back into the power outlet.
6. Set the multimeter to AC voltage mode.
7. Test for 240 VAC between terminals L1 and L2.
8. Turn the cooktop knob to the “on” position.
9. Test for 240 VAC between terminals H1 and H2.
10. If you get 240 VAC, the infinite switch is working.
11. If there is no voltage between H1 and H2, replace the infinite switch.
12. Unplug the range again before moving forward.

3. Inspect the Wire Harness

13. Examine the wiring between the infinite switch and the cooktop element.
14. Look for any burned, broken, or damaged wires or insulation.
15. Replace any damaged wires or insulation.
16. If the wiring is in good condition, continue to the next section.

4. Test the Cooktop Element

17. Keep the range unplugged.
18. Set the multimeter to continuity mode.
19. Test between terminals 1b and 2b on the element.
20. Confirm there is no continuity between 1b and 2b.
21. Set the multimeter to resistance mode (Ω).
22. Test between terminal 2a and terminal A on the element.
23. Look for a resistance reading between 45 and 50 Ohms.

5. Verify Voltage to the Element (Live Voltage)

24. Plug the range back in.
25. Set the multimeter to AC voltage mode.
26. Test for 240 VAC between terminal 2a and terminal A.
27. If voltage is present and resistance is correct, but the element doesn’t heat, replace the cooktop element.

Also Read: Electric Samsung range cooktop element isn’t working: DIY troubleshooting tips

Closing Thoughts

In the end, a cooktop burner that won’t heat might look like a big problem, but it’s often something small. People sometimes replace the whole unit without first checking a few easy things. Taking time to test the parts can save money and help you understand your appliance better.

A non-working burner doesn’t have to ruin dinner. With a bit of checking and a steady hand, the fix might be easier than you thought.