How to replace the terminal block in an electric GE range
Steven E / Thursday June 20, 2024
On a GE electric range, the terminal block delivers power from the household electrical supply to the range. Over time, regular use and wear can cause the terminal block to become worn out or damaged. You’ll need to replace the terminal block if it has visible signs of burning, melting, or corrosion or loose/damaged wiring connections.
Fortunately, with a few basic tools and some patience, you can tackle this repair yourself and get your range back in working order. If saving time and money sounds good to you, 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.
Important: The part replacement information provided in this article 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
- New terminal block (make sure it’s compatible with your specific range model before installing)
- Phillips head screwdriver
- 1/4-inch screwdriver
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: Electric Range Heating Coil Cleaning & Upkeep
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.
Read more: 6 safety tips for using an electric range
How to replace the terminal block
Ready to replace? Just follow these steps to get your range back in top shape.
- Unplug the range from the power supply to prevent any risk of electrical shock.
- Find the terminal block, which is usually at the back of the range, near the power cord connection. You may need to remove a back panel cover or terminal block cover to access it.
- Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the three screws that hold the power cord to the range.
- Note how the wires are connected to the terminal block. Take a photo for reference to make reinstallation easier.
- Carefully disconnect the wires from the terminal block.
- Remove the screws that hold the terminal block to the frame.
- Remove the faulty terminal block from the range.
- Align the new replacement terminal block with the mounting holes on the frame of the range.
- Use a Phillips head screwdriver to secure the terminal block in place with the mounting screws.
- Begin reconnecting the wires to the new terminal block. Remember that the center wire is always the white neutral wire, and carefully insert each wire into the proper terminal on the new block.
- Secure the wires to the terminal block with the screws you removed earlier. There should be two Phillips head screws and a ground screw.
- Replace the terminal block housing or rear panel if there is one.
- Plug the range back in.
- Test the range to make sure it’s working correctly with the new terminal block.
Read more: Electric Range Little to No Heat When Baking: Top 5 Reasons and Fixes
Additional information
Thanks for reading! We hope this guide helped you replace the terminal block on your electric 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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With nearly a decade of experience in providing top-notch customer service regarding appliance parts and repair, Steven enjoys sharing practical advice, troubleshooting tips, and interesting information to help readers stay informed.