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How to replace a range surface element control switch

less than a minute readAug 02Lyle Weischwill

Repair time and Difficulty

 15 minutes or less
Tools Required
  • 1/4-inch nut driver
  • Screwdriver
  • Work gloves
  • Cardboard to protect flooring
  • A helper if neccessary

This range repair guide explains how to replace the surface element control switch. The surface element control switch—also called a surface burner switch or infinite switch—turns the associated surface element on and off, and controls the heat level for the surface element. Replace the surface element switch with a manufacturer-approved replacement part if you can't turn the element on or off, or can't set the heat level (assuming the surface element and the wiring both function correctly).

Follow the steps in the guide and video to replace the surface element control switch in Kenmore, Frigidaire, Electrolux, GE, Whirlpool, Maytag, Amana, Bosch, LG and Samsung ranges.


Instructions

1. Unplug the range

Set cardboard on the floor in front of the range to prevent scratching the flooring. Pull the range out of the cabinet and unplug the power cord. Use a helper if necessary.

2. Remove the control panel back shield

Remove the screws from the control panel back shield and pull it off the range.

PHOTO: Remove the back shield screws.
PHOTO: Remove the back shield screws.
PHOTO: Remove the back shield.
PHOTO: Remove the back shield.
3. Replace the surface element control switch

Pull off the control knob.

Remove the screws that attach the surface element control switch to the control panel.

Pull the surface element control switch out and transfer the wires from the existing surface element control switch to the new surface element control switch.

Insert the new surface element control switch in the control panel and secure it with the mounting screws.

Push the control knob onto the surface element control switch stem.

PHOTO: Pull off the control knob.
PHOTO: Pull off the control knob.
PHOTO: Remove the screws.
PHOTO: Remove the screws.
PHOTO: Transfer the wires.
PHOTO: Transfer the wires.
4. Reinstall the control panel back shield

Place the control panel back shield on the back of the control console and fasten the back shield with the mounting screws.

5. Restore power and reinstall the range

Plug the power cord into the electrical outlet.

Carefully slide the range back into the cabinet, ensuring that the rear leveling foot properly engages with the anti-tip bracket so the range doesn’t fall forward when you open the oven door and pull out a loaded oven rack. Use a helper if necessary.