Step-by-step: how to change your oven's heating element without calling a technician

Has your oven stopped heating properly? Most likely, the heating element is damaged. Before calling a technician and spending a lot of money, we explain how you can change it yourself safely and easily.

What do you need to know before you start?

Changing an electric oven heating element is a relatively simple repair that can save you between €80 and €150 in labor costs. With the right tools, overcoming the fear of getting started, and following the correct steps, you can do it in less than an hour.

😂 One very important thing you should know is that at Electrotodo, we have a ton of heating elements for -almost- all oven brands just by clicking HERE.

And if you can't find what you're looking for, please contact us, here.

Signs that the heating element is faulty

• The oven does not heat or heats very little
• Preheating time is longer than usual
• Food does not cook evenly
• You see dark, deformed, or burnt areas on the heating element
• The oven trips the electrical breaker

Tools and materials needed

Before you begin, make sure you have everything you need:

• New compatible heating element for your oven model (check the model on the rating plate)
• Phillips, Torx, and flathead screwdrivers
• Pliers
• Multimeter (optional, to verify the fault)
• Work gloves
• Flashlight or portable light
• Phone camera (to photograph connections)

Step 1: Safety first - Disconnect the electricity

IMPORTANT: This is the most critical step. Before touching anything:

1. Disconnect the oven from the electrical current by turning off the corresponding switch on the electrical panel
2. Unplug the oven from the wall outlet
3. Verify with a multimeter that there is no current (optional but recommended)
4. If it's hot, wait at least 30 minutes for the oven to cool down

Never work with the oven connected to electricity. A mistake can lead to an undesirable problem.

Step 2: Access the inside of the oven

Depending on the model, you will need to access the heating element from the inside or from the back:

Access from the inside (most common)

1. Remove the oven racks and trays
2. Locate the screws holding the heating element (usually 2-4 screws on the inner rear part)
3. Photograph the position of the heating element before disassembling it

Access from the back

1. Carefully pull the oven away from the wall
2. Remove the rear panel by unscrewing the perimeter screws
3. Locate the heating element and its connections

Step 3: Disconnect the old heating element

This step requires attention to detail:

1. Photograph the electrical connections before disconnecting anything. This will make assembly much easier for you
2. Disconnect the heating element wires. These are usually faston-type connections that are removed by gently pulling
3. Note or mark which wire goes to each terminal (there are usually two or three wires)
4. Remove the screws that secure the heating element to the oven
5. Carefully remove the old heating element

Professional tip: If the connectors are very stiff, wiggle them slightly from side to side while pulling with pliers. Never force them abruptly.

Step 4: Verify that you have purchased the correct heating element

Before installing the new heating element, check that:

• The measurements are identical to the old heating element
• The terminals are in the same position
• The wattage (watts) is the same
• The mounting holes match

Step 5: Install the new heating element

Now comes the most satisfying part, the one that makes you feel powerful:

1. Place the new heating element in the same position as the old one
2. Align the mounting holes
3. Screw in the heating element without overtightening (the metal can deform) and it won't go anywhere
4. Connect the electrical wires to the corresponding terminals according to your photographs
5. Make sure the connections are firm but without forcing
6. Verify that no wires are touching metal parts of the oven

Step 6: Reassemble everything

1. If you removed the back panel, replace it with all its screws
2. Replace the racks and trays
3. Push the oven back into its original position (if you moved it)
4. Make sure you haven't left any tools inside the oven

Step 7: Functionality test

The moment of truth:

1. Reconnect the electricity at the electrical panel
2. Turn on the oven to medium temperature (180°C)
3. Observe if the heating element begins to turn red/orange
4. Verify that there are no strange odors or smoke
5. Let it reach temperature and check that it maintains the heat

If everything works correctly, congratulations! You have successfully repaired your oven.

Important safety tips

How much do you save by doing it yourself?

Concept	With technician	Do it yourself
Heating element	40-60€	40-60€
Labor	80-150€	0€
Travel	30-50€	0€
TOTAL	150-260€	40-60€

Potential savings: 110-200€ (if you're lucky)

Frequently asked questions

How long does an oven heating element last?

An electric oven heating element typically lasts between 5 and 10 years, depending on usage. If you use the oven daily, it's normal for it to need replacement sooner.

Can I use a heating element of a different wattage?

It is not recommended. You should always use a heating element with the same wattage (watts) as the original. A different wattage can damage the oven or not heat correctly.

What if the new heating element doesn't work either?

If the new heating element does not work, the problem may be in the thermostat, the programmer clock, or the internal wiring. In that case, it is best to consult with a specialized technician.

Is it normal for it to smell burnt the first time?

Yes, it is completely normal for the new heating element to give off a slight odor during the first few uses. These are manufacturing oils burning off. The smell should disappear after 2-3 uses.

Does the differential trip with the new heating element? TRICK

Oh! Sometimes it happens with new heating elements. Due to transport or weather conditions, if the new heating element gets damp, it can "trip the breaker" in the house. In that case, you just need to "heat up the new heating element before installing it, so that the moisture evaporates and it works perfectly.

Conclusion

Changing your electric oven's heating element is an accessible repair for anyone with basic knowledge and this Electrotodo tutorial. By following these steps and taking the necessary safety precautions, you can save money and have your oven working like new in less than an hour.

Always remember to buy quality spare parts compatible with your specific oven model. If you have doubts about which heating element you need, check your appliance's model on the rating plate or contact us.