Oven Heating Element Replacement – What You Need to Know

If your oven won’t heat up, the heating element is usually the culprit. It’s the metal coil you see at the bottom of most electric ovens. When it burns out, the oven feels like a cold box and you end up with raw meals. The good news? Replacing the element is a job most homeowners can handle with a few tools and some basic safety steps.

How to Tell the Element Is Bad

First, make sure the problem isn’t the thermostat or a blown fuse. Turn the oven on and watch the element. If it stays dark and cold after the oven reaches the set temperature, the element is likely dead. A quick test is to unplug the oven, remove the element, and check it with a multimeter. No continuity means it’s broken and needs a new one.

Step‑by‑Step Replacement Guide

1. Gather tools. You’ll need a screwdriver (usually Phillips), a multimeter, safety gloves, and the correct replacement element for your oven model. You can find the part number on the old element or in the oven’s manual.

2. Turn off power. Unplug the oven or switch off the circuit breaker. Never work on a live appliance – it’s not worth the risk.

3. Remove the old element. Open the oven door and locate the screws that hold the element in place. Unscrew them, pull the element out gently, and disconnect any wires attached to it. Some ovens have a simple clip; others have a plug that slides out.

4. Install the new element. Connect the wires to the new element the same way they were on the old one. Slide the element into the oven cavity and tighten the screws securely. Make sure it sits flat and isn’t twisted.

5. Test the oven. Plug the oven back in or restore the breaker. Set it to a high temperature and watch the new element glow red. If it heats up, you’re done. If not, double‑check the wiring and the continuity of the new part.

All of this usually takes 30‑45 minutes for a first‑timer. If you hit any snags, a local repair tech can finish the job in under an hour.

Cost and When to Call a Pro

A replacement element costs between £30 and £80, depending on brand and size. Adding labour, a professional will charge around £70‑£120 total. If the oven is older than 10 years, or if you notice multiple faults (like a faulty thermostat), it may be cheaper to replace the whole oven.

Call a pro when you’re not comfortable working with electricity, when the element is hard to reach (some models hide it behind panels), or if the oven still won’t heat after a fresh element. A qualified technician can also check the wiring and safety switches, giving you peace of mind.

Bottom line: most oven heating element failures are simple, low‑cost fixes. With the right tools and a bit of patience, you can get your oven back to baking in under an hour. If you’re unsure, a quick call to an experienced repair service will save you time and keep your kitchen safe.