How to Change the Element in a Ceramic Cooktop

Ceramic cooktops use radiant heat from beneath the surface of the appliance. The heating elements are mounted on brackets below the ceramic cooktop. This makes it easier to clean the surface,as it provides a sleek appearance to the cooktop. If an element burns out, the cooktop is designed to lift up from the front, like a car hood, for changing out the part. Using a wooden stick or metal rod to prop up the top, you can replace the defective element in less than half an hour.

Screwdrivers
20-inch wooden stick or metal rod

Instructions

- 1
  Shut off the electricity to the ceramic cooktop at the household circuit breaker box.
- 2
  Open the range door or cabinet immediately in front of the cooktop, depending on your model. Look under the top edge of the door frame or cabinet to locate the Phillips-head screws that hold the cooktop to the counter or range.
- 3
  Remove the screws with a screwdriver and raise the front edge of the cooktop to a 45-degree angle. Wedge the wooden stick or metal rod between the top of the cabinet or range and the underside of the cooktop to provide support.
- 4
  Take out the screws in the round or U-shaped bracket that holds the element you want to change out. Remove the bracket.
- 5
  Pull the defective element out of the cube-shaped electrical connector.
- 6
  Plug in the replacement element to the connector and reattach the bracket with the screws.
- 7
  Hold the front edge of the ceramic cooktop as you remove the wooden stick or metal rod. Lower the unit gently until it is back in position on the top of the range or counter.
- 8
  Secure the cooktop with the screws through the underside of the cabinet or door frame on the range.
- 9
  Switch on the circuit breaker.

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