Testing a range coil surface element with limiter switch video
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.
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.
With the burner cool to the touch, pull the burner out of the cooktop.
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.
Check out all our DIY videos on our Sears PartsDirect YouTube channel. Subscribe and we’ll let you know when new videos are posted.
Most common symptoms to help you fix your ranges
Choose a symptom to see related range repairs.
Main causes: broken oven door lock assembly, wiring failure, electronic control board problem…
Main causes: faulty temperature sensor, electronic control board problem, control thermostat failure, weak burner ignite…
Main causes: power supply problem, control thermostat or electronic control board failure, broken element, bad burner ig…
Main causes: food splatters, spilling food on the oven door, allowing liquid to drip through oven door vent when cleanin…
Main causes: broken broiler element, weak or broken broil burner igniter, control system failure, faulty temperature sen…
Main causes: bad bake element, broken burner igniter, control system failure, blown thermal fuse, faulty temperature sen…
Main causes: power supply failure, blown thermal fuse, bad relay control board, damaged terminal block, wiring failure…
Most common repair guides to help fix your ranges
These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your range.
How to replace a range oven door switch
The oven door switch detects whether the oven door is closed and helps control the oven light. Replace the switch if it …
How to replace a range oven door lock assembly
Oven door not locking? You can replace the lock assembly in less than 30 minutes. Here's how.…
Effective articles & videos to help repair your ranges
Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your range.
Learn how to clean and maintain your stove to keep it in top shape.…
Learn about all the convenient features on our Sears PartsDirect website that make your parts purchases easier.…
Get answers to frequently asked questions about Sears and Sears PartsDirect.…