How Much Does It Cost to Replace an Element in an Electric Oven?

If your electric oven won’t heat up or takes forever to bake a cake, the problem is often a broken heating element. It’s one of the most common failures in electric ovens, and replacing it isn’t as expensive or complicated as you might think. But how much does it actually cost? The answer depends on a few key things: the type of element, your oven model, whether you do it yourself, or hire a pro. Let’s break it down.

What’s an oven element, anyway?

Electric ovens have two main heating elements: the bake element at the bottom and the broil element at the top. The bake element does most of the work-it’s the one that heats up when you’re roasting, baking, or toasting. The broil element kicks in when you need high, direct heat for browning or searing. Both are made of metal coils that get red-hot when electricity flows through them. Over time, these coils wear out. Cracks form, the metal weakens, and eventually, it stops working. You might notice uneven cooking, long preheat times, or no heat at all. Sometimes, you’ll even see visible damage-black spots, cracks, or broken sections.

Cost of the element itself

The part you’re replacing usually costs between $25 and $70. It’s not a high-tech component, but price varies based on brand and compatibility. A generic replacement for a Frigidaire or Whirlpool oven might run $28. A higher-end model like a Bosch or Viking could cost $60 or more. You’ll need to match the part number exactly. Most elements have a label with a model number like WB44T10010 or AP4439375. Don’t guess. Use your oven’s model number (found on a sticker inside the door frame or on the back) to search online. Sites like Repair Clinic, PartSelect, or Amazon carry most common elements. Buying the right part saves you time and avoids a second trip to the store.

Professional labor costs

If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself, hiring a technician adds labor charges. In Canada, expect to pay between $100 and $200 for labor, depending on your location. In Hamilton, Ontario, most appliance repair shops charge $120-$150 for a standard element replacement. That includes diagnostic time, parts, and installation. Some companies charge a flat fee, others bill hourly at $75-$95 per hour. The job usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. If the technician has to order the part separately, you’ll pay extra for a return trip. Always ask if the quote includes both parts and labor. Some shops will charge you for diagnosis even if you don’t go ahead with the repair. That’s usually $50-$75, so make sure it’s waived if you hire them for the fix.

DIY replacement: how to save money

Replacing the element yourself is one of the easiest appliance repairs you can do. You don’t need special tools-just a screwdriver and a little patience. Here’s the basic process:

1. Unplug the oven or shut off the circuit breaker. Safety first.
2. Remove the oven racks.
3. Locate the element. For the bake element, look at the bottom of the oven. For the broil element, check the top.
4. Remove the screws holding the element in place. Usually two at the back.
5. Unplug the electrical connectors. They’re usually just pushed in, no tools needed.
6. Take the old element out and compare it to the new one. Make sure the shape and wire positions match.
7. Plug in the new element, screw it back in, and restore power.

Most people finish this in under 20 minutes. You’ll save $100 or more by doing it yourself. There’s no risk of damaging the oven if you follow the steps. Even if you’re not handy, YouTube has step-by-step videos for almost every oven model. Just search “how to replace bake element [your brand and model].”

When to replace both elements

Even if only one element is broken, it’s smart to check the other. If your bake element failed, your broil element is probably close to going too. They’re the same age, exposed to the same heat cycles. Replacing both at once saves you from having to do it again in six months. The total cost for two elements and labor (if hiring) might be $200-$250. But if you’re doing it yourself, adding the second element only costs another $30-$50. It’s a small extra cost for long-term peace of mind.

Signs you’re dealing with something else

Not every oven heating problem is the element. If you’ve replaced the element and it still doesn’t work, here are other possible culprits:

• Thermostat - If the oven overheats or doesn’t reach the right temperature, the thermostat might be faulty.
• Temperature sensor - Common in newer ovens. A bad sensor causes erratic heating.
• Control board - If the oven display works but nothing heats, the control board might be dead.
• Relay or fuse - A blown thermal fuse or relay can cut power to the element.

Most of these require professional diagnosis. But if your oven is over 10 years old and multiple parts are failing, it might be cheaper to replace the whole unit. A new mid-range electric oven costs $600-$900. If repairs are adding up, consider whether replacement makes more sense.

What you should budget

Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect:

Estimated Cost to Replace an Electric Oven Element

Option	Parts Cost	Labor Cost	Total
DIY (one element)	$25-$70	$0	$25-$70
DIY (both elements)	$50-$120	$0	$50-$120
Professional (one element)	$25-$70	$100-$200	$125-$270
Professional (both elements)	$50-$120	$100-$200	$150-$320

Most homeowners pay between $150 and $200 total when hiring someone. If you do it yourself, you’re looking at under $100-even less if you replace both elements at once.

Preventing future failures

Oven elements don’t last forever, but you can stretch their life:

• Avoid slamming the oven door-it jars the wiring and can loosen connections.
• Keep the oven clean. Built-up grease and food debris can overheat the element.
• Use the self-cleaning cycle sparingly. High heat accelerates wear on the elements.
• Check the element visually every few months. Look for cracks or discoloration.

With good care, an element can last 10-15 years. But if you notice signs of failure early, replacing it before it fully dies saves you from a cold kitchen and a last-minute repair rush.