How to replace the surface element receptacle on an electric GE range

Is your GE electric range’s surface element failing to heat up, or perhaps showing signs of sparking? Whether it’s a flicker or a crack, a damaged surface element receptacle can disrupt your cooking and become a safety hazard. Thankfully, with our easy-to-follow guide and how-to video below, you can quickly replace it yourself and restore your range to optimal performance.

Looking for the right part? Enter your appliance model number below to find the exact match and get your appliance running like new again!

The surface element receptacle on an electric GE range provides electrical power to the surface element so it can heat up. Over time, regular use and wear can cause the surface element receptacle to become damaged.

You might need to replace the receptacle if the surface element isn’t heating up correctly, there’s sparking or flickering when the surface element is in use, or the receptacle appears cracked or damaged.

Fortunately, with a few basic tools and some patience, you can tackle this repair yourself and get your GE electric range back in working order. Let’s get started!

If you need any replacement parts for your GE range, 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.

Watch the full repair here

What you need

• New surface element receptacle (make sure it’s compatible with your specific range model before installing)
• Phillips head screwdriver
• Wire stripper
• Ceramic wire nuts
• Electrical tape

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:  6 safety tips for using an electric range

Safety tips

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.

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

How to replace the surface element receptacle

Once you have your tools and new part, follow these instructions to change out the faulty receptacle on your electric GE range.

1. Unplug the range from the power outlet.
2. Remove the element and drip pan.
3. Use a Phillips screwdriver to remove the single screw that holds the metal receptacle holder.
4. If needed, raise the top to make the job easier.
5. Remove the old receptacle from the metal holder.
6. If the new receptacle kit doesn’t include the full length of wiring, cut about 6 inches off the old wiring and splice in the new receptacle with ceramic wire nuts and electrical tape. Alternatively, you can run the new wire all the way back to the switch.
7. Snap the new receptacle block into the metal holder.
8. Insert the new terminals into the new receptacle block. They can only be inserted one way.
9. Use ceramic wire nuts and electrical tape to secure the splice. You’ll want to use the ceramic wire nuts since they’re heat resistant.
10. Lower the top and put it back into position if it was lifted. Secure the top of the receptacle with the single screw.
11. Put the drip pan back in.
12. Insert the new element.
13. Plug the range back in.
14. Test the range to make sure the new receptacle is working correctly.

Read more: Electric Range Element Won’t Heat: Top 7 Reasons & Fixes

Looking for more?

Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the surface element receptacle on your GE range.

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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