Are oven elements universal?

Oven elements, also known as heating elements or bake elements, are responsible for heating up the inside of your oven so you can bake, broil, and roast food. But with so many different brands and models of ovens on the market, many people wonder – are oven elements universal or specific to certain oven makes and models?

The Basics of Oven Elements

Oven elements are typically made of metal and look like coils or rods inside the oven cavity. When electricity runs through them, they heat up to high temperatures in order to transfer heat into the oven space. Most ovens have both a lower heating element beneath the oven floor and an upper broil element under the oven ceiling.

There are two main types of oven elements:

• Coil elements – These consist of wire coils, similar to the coils on an electric stovetop burner. Coil elements are very common in older oven models.
• Tube or rod elements – Made from a straight tube or rod rather than a coil. Tube elements have largely replaced coil elements in newer oven models.

Elements are designed to withstand high heat. However, they do wear out over time, especially with heavy usage. An element that is no longer heating properly or evenly can lead to hot and cold spots in the oven, resulting in uneven cooking.

Are Oven Elements Universal?

The short answer is no – most oven elements are not universally interchangeable between makes and models. Here’s why:

• Different wattages – Elements are designed for specific wattage outputs based on the size and configuration of each oven model. Putting a wrong watt element in an oven can lead to overheating, underheating, or premature element failure.
• Different shapes/sizes – The shape and dimensions of elements differ between oven models to properly fit the oven cavity. An element designed for one model likely won’t fit properly in the cavity of a different model.
• Different mountings – Mounting hardware, terminals, and other fittings vary, making swap-outs difficult without custom modifications.
• Different manufacturers – Elements from one brand are engineered specifically for that brand’s ovens and are not interchangeable with other brands.

Some universal replacement elements do exist, but these are designed to be generic fits rather than exact replacements. The heating performance and durability of a generic element is usually not as good as an original manufacturer’s element.

Identifying Element Types

To find the correct replacement element for your oven, you need to identify the type of element you have. Here are some tips for identifying oven element types:

• Check for a model/part number stamped into the metal. Use this to look up the replacement part.
• Note whether it’s a coil or tube/rod style element.
• Measure the length and diameter of rods or the diameter and number of coil loops.
• Note the wattage if marked on the element.
• Check for unique mounts, terminals, or other hardware.
• Look up the oven make and model number to find the OEM element specification.

It’s always best to replace your oven element with the proper OEM part for your specific make and model. This will ensure optimal fit and heating performance.

Changing Elements in Specific Brands

While oven elements are not universal, there are some general guidelines for the most common oven brands:

GE Ovens

GE ovens typically use coil-style bake elements. Element sizes vary by model depending on the oven cavity size. GE elements can be identified by the GE logo stamped into the metal and a model number beginning with “WB.”

Kenmore Ovens

Kenmore ovens are sold by Sears but are made by various appliance manufacturers. You need to identify whether yours is made by GE, Whirlpool, Frigidaire, etc. The brand logo should be somewhere on the element. Kenmore elements use model numbers beginning with “85.”

Whirlpool Ovens

Whirlpool mostly uses coiled elements but has transitioned to tubular in some models. The Whirlpool logo is stamped into their elements along with a model number beginning “W.”

Frigidaire Ovens

Frigidaire uses both coil and tubular elements depending on model. Tubular models will have a straight rod element. Coiled elements will have the Frigidaire brand name and model number beginning “3164” stamped in.

LG Ovens

LG ovens typically incorporate smooth top ranges, so their bake elements are often disguised heating tubes. However, traditional coils or rods may be used in some models. Look for the LG logo stamped into the element.

Samsung Ovens

Samsung oven elements are often customized to unconventional oven cavity shapes. However, they use a mix of coil and tubular element designs. Look for the Samsung logo on the element and a model number beginning “DE.”

Bosch Ovens

Bosch uses predominantly tubular oven elements. Look for the Bosch name branded on the element tube along with a model number beginning “5302.”

Signs You Need a New Element

Here are some signs that indicate a failing oven element that needs replacement:

• Visible cracks or damage on the element
• The element doesn’t heat properly when turned on
• Some parts of the oven heat faster/slower than others
• Heating problems getting worse over time
• Food taking longer than normal to cook or burn
• Food cooking unevenly and inconsistently

If you notice any of these issues, carefully inspect the upper and lower oven elements for damage. Test the resistance of each element with a multimeter if possible. This can help confirm if an element has failed or has a break in it.

Finding Replacement Elements

Here are some tips for finding the correct replacement oven element for your make and model:

• Search using your exact oven brand, make, and model number
• Check manufacturer’s official parts websites
• Consult with appliance parts distributors
• Search reputable online appliance parts retailers
• Use the identification tips above to match elements
• Confirm the wattage matches your oven’s electrical specs
• Buy branded OEM elements when possible

Purchasing the manufacturer’s original spec element ensures the best compatibility and performance. Be wary of generic or “fits all” elements that could have questionable quality.

Installing Oven Elements

Once you have the new oven element, follow these tips for safe installation:

1. Turn off power to oven at the breaker box
2. Remove oven racks and paneling to access element
3. Disconnect old element from screw terminals
4. Carefully remove retaining clips or screws holding element
5. Install new element, retaining it with original hardware
6. Attach element to screw terminals
7. Test element visually by turning on oven temporarily
8. Replace oven panels and racks
9. Restore power and test oven function

Take care not to damage oven porcelain when removing the old element. Have someone support the element while attaching wiring. Install retaining hardware securely to avoid element movement.

Conclusion

In summary, most oven elements are not universally interchangeable between makes and models. The size, shape, wiring, and hardware differs between brands and oven configurations. Referencing the oven model number and identifying key element details is important for finding the correct replacement part. With some care and electrical precautions, a DIY oven element replacement is very feasible. Matching the element type properly and buying OEM ensures optimal performance. This allows you to restore even heating and cooking functionality to your oven.