Replace the bake element in an electric GE range: A complete guide
Steven E / Thursday June 27, 2024
In an electric GE range, the bake element generates heat to cook foods. Over time, the bake element may become damaged from regular use or wear.
You might need to change out the bake element if it’s not heating up to the proper temperature, you’re experiencing uneven cooking, or the element is completely burned out. Fortunately, with a few basic tools and some patience, you can tackle this repair yourself and get your GE range back in working order.
You can find a replacement bake element here. If you need other replacement parts for your GE range, just enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to find them. It’s that easy! Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of 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
- Replacement bake element (make sure it’s compatible with your specific range model before installing)
- 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: 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 bake element
Follow these steps to swap out the bake element in your electric GE range.
- Unplug the range from the power outlet.
- Open the oven door.
- Find the two screws that hold the bake element in place on the back wall of the oven.
- Use a 1/4-inch nut driver to remove the two screws.
- Gently pull the bake element out of the oven cavity. You may need to wiggle it a bit to loosen it.
- Find the two wires connected to the bake element and note how each one is connected.
- Disconnect the wires from the bake element. Be careful to prevent the wires from falling back behind the oven’s interior panel.
- Connect the wires to the terminals on the new bake element.
- Carefully insert the new bake element into the oven cavity by aligning it with the screw holes.
- Replace the two 1/4-inch screws and tighten them using the nut driver to secure the new element in place.
- Close the oven door.
- Reconnect the range power cord to the wall outlet.
- Turn the oven control to the bake function and make sure the new element heats up properly.
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 bake element 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.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram to see our latest repair guides!
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.