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Testing a range coil surface element with limiter switch video

less than a minute readMar 09Lyle Weischwill

If the surface burner on your newer Frigidaire, GE and Kenmore ranges won’t heat, the limiter switch may be the problem. This video shows how to test the limiter switch to determine whether you need to replace the element.

For more DIY help with your electric or gas range, check out our repair help page for troubleshooting tips and videos, repair guides and error code charts.

In 2019, Frigidaire, GE and Kenmore ranges started using coil surface elements with limiter switches that cycle power off and on to lower the risk of fire.

If the limiter switch fails, the surface element won't heat.

When this type of coil surface element doesn't heat, you can test the limiter switch by following these steps.

  1. Unplug the range to disconnect electrical power. Or shut off the house circuit breakers for the range if the power cord is hard to reach.

  2. With the burner cool to the touch, pull the burner out of the cooktop.

  3. Using a multimeter, measure the resistance through the element prongs.

The meter should measure between 20 and 40 ohms if the element and its limiter switch are good.

Replace the element if the meter measures infinite resistance.

If the element is good, then a failed infinite burner switch or wiring failure is preventing the element from heating. Watch this video so see how to diagnose those types of failures.

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