Cooktop is Producing a Burning Smell

The surface element switch sends voltage to the surface element coil. If the switch is defective, the surface element will not work. If there is another element of the same size on the stove, try switching the elements. If the surface element still doesn’t work, the surface element switch is likely defective. The surface element switch cannot be tested or repaired—if you suspect the switch is defective, replace it.

The surface element board has relays that regulate the power supply to the burners. If one or more of the relays fails, the surface element won’t work. If two or more burners fail at the same time, this indicates that the surface element board is likely at fault. If only one surface element won’t work, use a multimeter to test the element for continuity. If the surface element has continuity, the surface element board might be defective.

The surface element plugs onto a receptacle. Over time, the contacts in the receptacle can burn out. If the receptacle contacts burn out, the surface element will not receive power. To determine if the element receptacle has failed, inspect the receptacle contacts. If the contacts are visibly burnt or damaged, replace the element receptacle. In addition, examine the element prongs for signs of burning. If the prongs are burnt, replace both the element and element receptacle.

If the power cord connections in the terminal block on your electric range are not secure the wire can overheat, burning the connections on the terminal block, and melting the coating on the wires. Check to ensure the connections are tight and not burnt. If the terminal block connectors are burnt, the terminal block should be replaced. If the power cord terminal connectors are burnt or damaged, the power cord should be replaced. If the power cord prongs are burnt, a new power cord should be installed and the receptacle checked and replaced if necessary by a licenced electrician.

If the power cord connections in the terminal block on your electric range are not secure the wire can overheat, burning the connections on the terminal block, and melting the coating on the wires. Check to ensure the connections are tight and not burnt. If the terminal block connectors are burnt, the terminal block should be replaced. If the power cord terminal connectors are burnt or damaged, the power cord should be replaced. If the power cord prongs are burnt, a new power cord should be installed and the receptacle checked and replaced if necessary by a licenced electrician.

These wires commonly burn out near the heating element. To determine if a wire has burned out, inspect the wires leading to the element. If a wire is burned out, it will often be visibly burnt.