How to replace a GE range infinite switch WB24T10119


Steven E / Monday November 20, 2023


Are you struggling with an electric stove that won’t let you adjust the burner settings? The culprit might be a faulty infinite control switch, but don’t worry—you can tackle this repair yourself! Our step-by-step guide, complete with a helpful how-to video, will walk you through the process of replacing the switch on your GE cooktop, restoring your stove’s full functionality in no time.

The infinite control switch is a type of switch that lets you adjust the power of the heating element on an electric stove. So, when that part fails you may not be able to adjust the setting on the elements. We’ll take you through the entire process of swapping out the infinite control switch on a GE electric cooktop. It’s a bit of a DIY project that falls in the intermediate category, so you’ll need to disconnect wires and disassemble the cooktop.

WATCH: How to replace infinite control switch

Safety First!

Before you start any repair work on your appliance, safety should be your top priority. Unplug the appliance. Always make sure your appliance is unplugged from the power source or turned off at the circuit breakers. This will prevent any electrical mishaps during the repair process.

Disclaimer: The part replacement information provided in this article is based on general service manuals and may not apply to your specific appliance model. While we strive to offer helpful advice for DIY appliance repairs, variations in models and configurations can lead to differences in troubleshooting steps, error codes and part replacements. For the most accurate guidance, we strongly recommend consulting the technical sheet for your specific appliance model.

Materials needed

Gather the following tools and parts before getting started:

Make sure to take your model number to AppliancePartsPros.com to locate the correct parts for your unit. Having all the required materials on hand will allow you to work efficiently and avoid delays.

READ MORE: Why It’s Best to Choose OEM Over Aftermarket Parts for Appliance Repairs

illustration of a knob over an infinite switch on an electric range

Removing the cooktop

With the power disconnected, we can now focus on removing the cooktop from the counter:

  1. Locate and remove any mounting brackets from underneath the cooktop. Brackets may be in different locations depending on the model. Check all sides.
  2. For hardwired cooktops, disconnect the 240V power cable.
  3. Insert putty knives around the edges and gently pry the cooktop loose. Take care not to scratch the countertop.
  4. Once freed, carefully lift the cooktop straight up. Watch for any dangling wires.
  5. Set the cooktop on a flat, stable work surface for disassembly.

Removing the cooktop exposes the components and provides room to maneuver during the repair.

WATCH: How to replace cooktop

Disassembling the cooktop

Further disassembly is required to access the control switch itself:

  1. Remove all knobs from the cooktop by gently pulling straight up.
  2. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the screws along the outer edge holding the glass top to the metal frame.
  3. Gently pry up the glass top, watching for any stubborn tape adhesive. Lift slowly so the infinite switch shafts detach.
  4. Set aside the glass top. Take care not to scratch, chip, or crack it.

With the glass top removed, the control console is now accessible.

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Replacing the control switch

Here are the detailed steps to remove the old infinite switch and install the new replacement part:

  1. Open the control box and remove the 3 screws – one along each side and one on top.
  2. Lift and move the heating element out of the way for easier access.
  3. Carefully pivot the control console up to reveal the switches mounted underneath.
  4. Label the wires and terminals then disconnect each wire from the terminals on the old switch. A flathead screwdriver can help pry them loose. It may also help to take a photo of which wires go to each terminal.
  5. Remove the two screws holding the infinite switch in place and lift it out.
  6. Align and insert the new infinite switch in the same orientation as the old one.
  7. Replace the two mounting screws to secure the new switch.
  8. Reconnect each wire to the proper terminal, following your labels. Some replacement switches my have the terminals in different locations than the original. Reference back to the photo and be sure each wire is routed to the correct terminal. Make sure you have tight connections.
  9. Return the control console to its lowered position. Replace the 3 screws.
  10. Reposition the heating element back into place.

Take your time when replacing the switch to make sure you have connected the wiring correctly.

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Reassembling the cooktop

With the new infinite switch installed, we can reassemble the remaining cooktop components:

  1. If the foam tape seal is damaged, remove any residue and replace it with new tape. Cut strips to fit each edge without overlapping.
  2. Align the shaft holes and gently lower the glass top into place on the metal frame.
  3. Insert and tighten all outer edge screws to secure the glass top.
  4. Replace all knobs, aligning the locator tabs or shaped shafts.
  5. Verify proper cooktop operation before proceeding.

Reassembly is the reverse of disassembly. Be sure all components are properly realigned.

READ MORE: 4 Simple Ways to Reduce Kitchen Waste

Installing the cooktop

The final steps are to mount the cooktop back into place:

  1. Use an assistant to lift and position the cooktop into the counter cutout. Align it evenly.
  2. Reattach any mounting brackets previously removed from underneath.
  3. Restore power to the cooktop and verify proper heating operation.

With that, the GE infinite control switch replacement is complete! Take your time and follow proper safety procedures for a successful repair.

READ MORE: What to do when your range or oven stops working in the middle of holiday baking

More Information

Thanks for reading! We hope this article helped you replace the infinite control switch in your GE cooktop.

If you still need some replacement parts, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com. We offer over two million parts and most orders arrive in two business days. If you need some help with finding the right part or placing an order, you can contact our team at 1 (877) 477-7278.

While you’re waiting for your new part to arrive, you can explore our DIY blog and watch thousands of video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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