Heating Element Basics: When It Fails and What to Do

A heating element is the part that turns electricity into heat inside appliances like ovens, water heaters and dryers. If it stops working, you’ll notice things like cold showers, an oven that won’t bake, or a dryer that stays cool. These signs are usually easy to spot, and many fixes can be done at home with a few tools.

First off, always turn off the power at the breaker before you touch anything. A live element can give you a nasty shock, and the breaker protects both you and the appliance. Once you’re safe, locate the element – it’s often a metal coil or a flat ribbon attached to the back or bottom of the unit.

Quick Checks Before You Replace

Most heating element problems come down to one of three things: broken coil, loose connection, or a blown fuse in the control board. Here’s a fast way to narrow it down:

• Visual inspection: Look for broken wires, burnt spots or a visible gap in the coil. Even a small break can stop heat.
• Continuity test: Grab a multimeter, set it to the lowest ohm setting, and touch the probes to the element’s terminals. If the meter reads “infinite” or “OL,” the element is dead.
• Check the wiring: Make sure the terminal screws are tight and the wires aren’t corroded. Loose wires can cause intermittent heating that feels like a bad element.

If the element passes the continuity test and the wiring looks solid, the fault is probably in the thermostat or the control board – that’s where a professional steps in.

DIY Replacement Made Simple

When the element is the culprit, swapping it out is usually straightforward. Here’s a step‑by‑step:

1. Disconnect power and remove any screws or clips holding the element in place.
2. Take note of how the element is wired – a quick photo helps.
3. Unscrew the terminal connectors and pull the old element out.
4. Insert the new element, reconnect the wires, and secure it with the original screws or clips.
5. Restore power and run a quick test. The oven should heat, or the water heater should start producing hot water within a few minutes.

Most elements cost under £30 and are sold by the appliance model, so double‑check the part number before you buy. Keep the old element just in case – it can be useful for troubleshooting later.

Even with a solid replacement, keep an eye on the appliance for the first few uses. If the problem recurs, the issue might be deeper, like a failing thermostat, a bad relay, or wiring hidden behind panels.

Remember, safety always comes first. If you ever feel unsure about any step, give Bridgewater Appliance Fixers a call. Our team can diagnose the fault faster than most DIY attempts and we’ll get your oven, heater or dryer back to work without risking your safety.

Got more heating element questions? Check out our posts on hot water heater elements, oven element troubleshooting, and when to call a professional. We’ve got the tips you need to keep the heat flowing at home.