How to Replace the Heating Element on a GE Smooth-Top Stove

GE smooth-top stoves use radiant heating elements to reflect heat from beneath the cooking surface. The four electrical elements are hidden below the surface and held in place with metal supports. Burned-out elements are a common repair with electric stoves and cooktops. Since the part is subjected to frequent heating and cooling, burner elements tend to wear out faster than other stove parts. Save money on this simple repair by removing and replacing the element yourself.

Screwdriver
24-inch metal rod

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the circuit breaker that controls power to the GE stove.
- 2
  Pull down the front door on the appliance to find the screws along the top edge of the door frame.
- 3
  Extract the screws on the top edge to release the smooth cooking surface from the front of the cabinet.
- 4
  Raise the cooking surface carefully to avoid cutting your hands on the metal edges underneath. Insert the metal rod between the top of the stove and the underside of the cooking surface to keep the surface upright. You can now see the metal retainer plates that hold the elements in place.
- 5
  Extract the screws in the retainer plate holding the element you need to replace. Take off the plate and set the screws inside for safekeeping.
- 6
  Pull the two electrodes on the end of the element from the small power box. Take the defective element to an appliance store for matching with a new part.
- 7
  Plug in the new part and replace the retainer plate over it, securing with the screws.
- 8
  Lift the smooth top slightly to remove the rod, then lower the smooth top to the stove surface. Press gently to push the smooth top flush with the cabinet.
- 9
  Replace and tighten the screws along the top edge of the door frame.
- 10
  Raise the GE door to the closed position. Restore power by slipping on the breaker switch.

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