Replacing an element in your oven is a fairly simple process and requires few tools, but it is necessary to take precautions for safety reasons. Here is a step by step incurable guide:
Safety Precautions:
Be sure to unplug your oven or turn off the power at the breaker panel to prevent electricity from running to your appliance.
Allow the oven to cool down completely if you were recently using it to avoid burns.
Replacing the Heating Element:
Identify the heating element that needs to be replaced:
Open the oven door and check above or below. The heating element will either be located above you (broil element) or below you in the oven (Bake element)
Remove the screws that fasten the heating element:
Check to see if the element is held in place with screws or bolts. Most heating elements have either two screws have at either end.
Grab your screwdriver and remove the screws. If the screws are in a difficult location, you may need to remove the oven racks or remove the back panel from the oven.
Disconnect the element from the wires:
Once screws are removed, gently pull the heating element toward you.You will see two wires attached to the element with metal clips or screws.
Use pliers to remove the clips or unscrew the wire connections (be sure to remember the attachment point for both wires since you will reattach them to the new element).
Install the new heating element:
Attach the wires to the new element the same way they were attached to the old one (and secure them).
Once the wires are secured, slide the new element back into place.
Secure the element with the screws you removed previously.
Test the oven:
Once all is secure, plug the oven back in or turn the power back on at the breaker.
Turn the oven on to be sure the new heating element is working properly.
Tips:
Checks Compatibility: Make sure that your replacement element is compatible with your particular oven (size, voltage, wattage).
Take Photos: Take a photo of the old connections of the wires before you disconnect them to help you install the new element.
Wear Gloves: You should wear gloves when handling heating elements (they can be sharp) - work gloves will protect your hands.
