How to know if your Whirlpool range broil element is bad

If your electric Whirlpool range isn’t heating up like it used to, there’s a chance the broil element is the problem. Let’s walk through how to test and replace it like a pro so you can get your range working again.

If you find out that you need any replacement parts for your Whirlpool range while you’re troubleshooting, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

Important: The troubleshooting information in this article is based on model WFC340S0AB0 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.

What you need

• Multimeter
• Phillips screwdriver
• 1/4-inch nut driver

Important: The specific tools required may vary depending on the model of your appliance and the type of fasteners used on it. Always consult the user manual or refer to any specific instructions provided by the manufacturer for the recommended tools for your appliance model.

Read more: Why your Whirlpool range cooktop element won’t heat & how you can fix it   

Safety precautions

When working on any appliance, remember to keep safety first. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Always power off and unplug your appliance or switch off the circuit breaker before you attempt any maintenance or replacement work. This keeps you safe by eliminating any risk of electric shock.
• If the appliance has recently been used, give it plenty of time to cool down before working on it.
• Take your time while working to prevent accidents and personal injuries. Rushing is the enemy of precision.
• Work in a well-lit area so you can see and access appliance parts.
• Keep your workspace free of clutter and other obstacles. Keep children and pets away from the work area.
• Never work on internal parts with wet hands. Make sure the work area is completely dry.
• Check the user manual to see if there are specific installation or safety instructions related to your appliance or replacement part.
• Be gentle when handling or removing parts. Excessive force might damage the appliance or cause personal injury.
• Wear insulated work gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal parts and debris.
• When working with wires, avoid touching any exposed wires or terminals. If you need to touch a wire, use a non-conductive tool or wear insulating gloves to prevent electrical shock.
• Always take photos or make a note of wiring terminals or other connections before disconnecting them to make reassembly easier.
• Don’t test live voltage with a multimeter if you’re unfamiliar with how to prevent short-circuiting.

Read more: Electric Range Too Hot: Top 4 Reasons and Fixes

How to test the broil element

Follow these steps to determine if you have a faulty broil element in your electric Whirlpool range.

1. Carefully pull the range away from the wall so you can access the back.
2. Make sure the range is unplugged from the power outlet.
3. Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the screw at the bottom of the terminal block shield.
4. Push the shield down and pull it away from the range. Set it aside.
5. Use the nut driver to remove the screws on the back oven panel, starting from the bottom.
6. Carefully pull the back panel away from the oven and set it aside.

LIVE VOLTAGE WARNING: For this test, the range needs to be plugged in and powered on. Please be very careful to protect yourself from electric shock, which has the potential to cause serious injuries. Don’t ever test live voltage if you’re uncomfortable using a multimeter.

7. Plug the power cord back into the outlet.
8. Grab a multimeter and set it to the volts AC mode.
9. Set the oven control to the broil setting.
10. Place the meter probes at each wire connected to the broil element.

If the broil element receives 240 volts AC but doesn’t heat, then it needs to be replaced.

How to replace the broil element (if needed)

1. Unplug the range from the power outlet.
2. Open the oven door and remove the oven racks.
3. Move the hinge lock to the unlock position.
4. Lift the door to about 45 degrees and rotate it towards the oven slightly to detach it.
5. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the mounting screws that hold the broil element.
6. Carefully pull the broil element forward and make sure the wires come through with it.
7. Remove the wires from the element terminals.
8. Carefully attach the wires to the terminals of the new broil element.
9. Push the new broil element into the oven until the bracket is flush against the wall.
10. Use the mounting screws to secure the broil element in place.
11. Place the oven racks back into the oven.
12. Align the hinges with the receivers and insert them. Rotate the door down until it’s flat.
13. Move the hinge locks back to the locked position and close the door.
14. Go to the back of the range and secure the back oven panel with the screws you removed earlier.
15. Insert the terminal block shield into its mounting slots, lift it up, and secure it with the last screw.
16. Plug the range back in or turn the breaker back on.

Read more: How to replace a terminal block on an electric range

Additional information

Thank you for reading! We hope this guide helped you get your Whirlpool range working again.

If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, don’t hesitate to explore our other troubleshooting guides and videos.

If you need replacement parts or some extra help with ordering them, grab your model number and head over to AppliancePartsPros.com, where you can chat with a pro, read our DIY blog and more.

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