Heating Element Basics and How to Fix Common Problems

Heating elements are the metal coils that turn electricity into heat inside appliances like dishwashers, ovens, dryers and water heaters. When they go bad, you get cold dishes, lukewarm laundry, or no hot water at all. The good news? Most homeowners can diagnose and replace a faulty element without calling a pro.

When a Heating Element Fails

Typical signs include longer wash cycles, dishes that stay wet, a dryer that takes forever to dry, or a water heater that won’t heat. You might also hear a buzzing sound or see the element looking blackened or broken. In many cases the appliance still runs, but the heating part just doesn’t work, which can be confusing if you’re new to repairs.

Before you start pulling parts apart, always unplug the appliance and turn off the circuit breaker. A live element can give you a nasty shock. Check the user manual for the exact location of the element – most manufacturers label it clearly, and you’ll often find a simple screw or clip holding it in place.

DIY Replacement Steps

1. Gather tools. You’ll need a screwdriver (usually Phillips), a multimeter for testing continuity, and possibly a wrench. Most elements come with a repair kit that includes the new part and any required gaskets.

2. Test the element. Set the multimeter to “ohms” and touch the probes to the element’s terminals. A healthy element reads between 10‑30 ohms, depending on the appliance. If you get infinite resistance, the coil is broken and needs replacement.

3. Remove the old element. Loosen any mounting screws, disconnect the wiring harness, and gently pull the element out. Some appliances have a rubber seal that you’ll need to peel away – keep it handy if you need to reuse it.

4. Install the new element. Position it exactly where the old one sat, reattach the wiring, and tighten the mounting hardware. Make sure the seal sits flat; a crooked seal can cause leaks in dishwashers or water heaters.

5. Test before you finish. Plug the appliance back in, turn the breaker on, and run a short cycle. If heat returns, you’ve done it right. If not, double‑check the wiring connections and the multimeter reading.

While most heating elements are straightforward, some ovens have hidden panels or require removing the door to access the coil. In those cases, take a photo of the wiring before you disconnect it – it saves you from guessing later.

Even if you feel confident, know when to call a professional. If the element is hard‑to‑reach, if you notice burnt wiring, or if the appliance still won’t heat after a fresh element, a qualified technician can diagnose deeper electrical issues.

Regular maintenance can extend the life of your heating elements. Keep the interior of dishwashers and dryers clean, descale water heaters annually, and avoid overloading ovens. A clean appliance runs cooler, reducing stress on the element and lowering the chance of premature failure.

Bottom line: a faulty heating element is a common, fixable problem. With the right tools, a quick safety check, and the steps above, you can restore heat to most home appliances and save money in the process.