Common Faults & Symptoms

The following symptoms are commonly reported when a grill heating element begins to fail. Use this as a diagnostic guide before ordering a replacement — if more than one of these is present, the element is the likely culprit.

Fitment Guidance

This part is compatible only with the models listed in the compatibility matrix above. Even if a part looks visually identical, internal specifications can differ.

• Confirm your full model number against the Bush, Hostess, Kenwood, Montpellier, New World, Rangemaster, Russell Hobbs, Sharp, Statesman and Swan lists on this page before ordering, as grill elements vary in shape, length and terminal position between ranges that otherwise look similar.
• Compare the new element against the original for overall dimensions, mounting bracket position and terminal spacing before removing any fixings.
• Check that the replacement matches the original in wattage and voltage, as fitting an element with the wrong rating will affect grill performance and may overload the thermostat.
• Inspect the wiring and spade terminals for heat damage or brittleness while the element is out, as damaged connectors can cause a new element to fail prematurely.

Diagnostic Tips

Before concluding that the part has failed, carry out these checks to rule out other causes.

• MEASURE ELEMENT RESISTANCE: Disconnect the appliance from the mains, access the element terminals and measure resistance with a multimeter. An infinite reading confirms an open circuit and a failed element.
• CHECK FOR CONTINUITY TO EARTH: With the element disconnected, test between each terminal and the metal sheath. Any continuity indicates an insulation failure that can trip the circuit breaker and means the element must be replaced.
• INSPECT THE ELEMENT SHEATH: Look for splits, blisters, bulges or dark burn marks. Physical damage cannot be repaired and always requires replacement.
• VERIFY THE THERMOSTAT AND CONTROL BOARD: A faulty thermostat, thermal cut-out or control relay can prevent power reaching a healthy element. If the element tests correctly for continuity, check these components next.
• CHECK FOR WIRING DAMAGE: A broken wire or loose spade terminal between the element and the control board can mimic a failed element. Check the harness and connections before ordering a replacement.

Installation Guide

These steps describe the general procedure. The exact sequence varies between models, so always consult the appliance service manual where available.

1. Isolate the appliance from the mains supply and allow the oven to cool completely before starting work.
2. Remove the oven door and any shelves or trays to improve access to the top of the cavity, then take off the rear panel or the top cover to expose the grill element connections.
3. Take a photograph of the element and its wiring before removal, noting which terminal connects to which wire and how the mounting bracket is oriented.
4. Disconnect the spade terminals from the element, then remove the screws securing the element and its bracket to the top of the cavity.
5. Lift the old element out carefully, taking care not to damage the surrounding insulation or the cavity walls, and clean any debris or grease from the recess while it is accessible.
6. Position the new element, refit the mounting screws and reconnect the spade terminals to the corresponding tags. Check that the element sits correctly and does not touch the cavity walls.
7. Refit the rear panel and oven door, restore the power and run the oven through a short heating cycle to confirm that the element heats correctly and that no error codes or tripped breakers occur.