How to Replace Oven Heating Element

Replacing an oven heating element is one of the most common and straightforward oven repairs — most homeowners can complete it in 20–30 minutes with basic tools. Here's the complete step-by-step guide.

Before You Start

• Disconnect the oven from power completely — unplug or switch off at the circuit breaker
• Allow the oven to cool completely
• Source the correct replacement element for your oven model. The WB44T10011 Oven Bake Element Replacement (compatible with GE, Hotpoint, RCA) fits many common models — always verify your model number before ordering.

What You'll Need

• Replacement bake element (model-specific)
• Phillips screwdriver
• Needle-nose pliers
• Multimeter for testing — the AstroAI Digital Multimeter 2000 Counts verifies the new element is working correctly after installation

Step 1: Remove the Oven Racks

Pull out all oven racks to give yourself clear access to the oven floor and the element mounting screws.

Step 2: Remove the Mounting Screws

1. Locate the 2 mounting screws at the back of the element where it meets the oven back wall
2. Remove both screws and set aside
3. Gently pull the element forward 10–15cm to expose the wiring terminals

Step 3: Disconnect the Wiring

1. Take a photo of the wiring connections before disconnecting
2. Pull each wire connector off the terminal using needle-nose pliers if needed
3. Hold onto the wires as you disconnect — if they slip back through the wall hole, you'll need to fish them out
4. Remove the old element

Step 4: Install the New Element

1. Thread the new element's terminals through the holes in the oven back wall
2. Push the wire connectors firmly onto the terminals
3. Push the element back into position and replace the 2 mounting screws

Step 5: Test

1. Replace the oven racks and restore power
2. Turn the oven on to bake at 180°C (350°F)
3. The element should glow evenly orange-red within 2–3 minutes
4. Run for 15–20 minutes to confirm normal operation

Replacing the Broil Element (Top Element)

The process for the broil element (top of the oven) is identical — same mounting screws, same wiring connectors, same steps. The element is mounted on the oven ceiling rather than the floor. Always disconnect power first.

Summary

Replace an oven bake element by disconnecting power, removing 2 mounting screws, pulling the element forward, swapping the wires to the new element, and securing it back in place. The whole process takes 20–30 minutes and requires only a screwdriver and pliers.