Electric Burners Not Working – What Part Fixes This Problem?
Need the replacement part? Search your model number at for guaranteed fit and fast free shipping.
Understanding the Problem
When one or more electric surface burners fail to heat, heat unevenly, or work intermittently, it’s usually due to a failed surface element, a bad infinite switch (the control behind the knob), a damaged terminal block/receptacle, or a wiring issue. The symptom may be a single dead coil while others are fine, a burner that glows but doesn’t get hot, or heat that cuts in and out. Diagnosing the problem efficiently saves time and prevents unnecessary part purchases. Simple checks — like swapping the coil with a known-good burner, visually inspecting the element and receptacle, and testing continuity with a multimeter — will point you to the specific part that needs replacement. For safety, always disconnect power to the range before performing any inspections or repairs.
Common Symptoms
Single or multiple burners dead, burner glows but stays cool, burners heating intermittently, physical damage or burn marks at the receptacle, or control knob does nothing.
Common Causes
- Burned-out or broken surface element (coil)
- Faulty infinite switch (the control that regulates power to the element)
- Loose/damaged terminal block or wiring at the element receptacle
Popular Parts That Fix This Problem
These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at PartsDiscount.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.
Helpful Repair Tip
Swap the suspected bad coil with a working coil on the same range. If the problem moves with the coil, replace the coil. If it stays on the original location, test the infinite switch and connections at the terminal block.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I test which part is bad when a burner won't heat?
First disconnect power. Remove the coil and visually inspect for breaks or blisters. Swap that coil with a working coil on the same cooktop: if the problem moves with the coil, the coil is bad. If it stays on the same burner location, test the infinite switch for continuity across its terminals while turning the knob (use a multimeter) and check for power at the terminal block with the range powered on (exercise caution). Replace the part that fails continuity or has no power where expected.
Can I replace an electric burner part myself or should I call a technician?
Many burner element and knob replacements are straightforward and can be done safely by a handy homeowner who can disconnect power and follow basic instructions. Replacing an infinite switch or terminal block requires accessing internal wiring and testing; if you’re not comfortable working with live wiring or don’t have a multimeter, call a qualified appliance technician. Always turn off power at the breaker before any work and consult your range’s model-specific manual for part numbers and instructions.
Real DIY Repair Stories
Be the first to share your repair story!
Share Your Repair Story
Your experience helps other homeowners fix their appliances. Tell us how it went!
Can't Fix It Yourself? Find a Local Technician
It's perfectly okay to call a professional. Some repairs require specialized tools, deep teardowns, or dealing with complex systems that are better left to the pros.
Find the Right Part for Your Appliance
Don't guess — search your exact appliance model number at PartsDiscount.com to find the correct OEM compatible replacement part. They offer fast free shipping, guaranteed fit, and thousands of parts in stock.
Your Free Parts Videos
Whether your dishwasher won't drain, your dryer stopped heating, or your fridge isn't cold, we've created simple repair guides for the most common appliance problems homeowners face. Each guide explains what's going wrong, the most likely causes, and which replacement parts fix the issue. When you're ready to order, we link directly to PartsDiscount.com where you can search by model number and get the right part shipped fast.