How to Fix Bake element burnout on Whirlpool WFE550S0LZ (Electric Range)

Bake element burnout

This step-by-step repair guide walks you through fixing bake element burnout on your Whirlpool WFE550S0LZ (Electric Range). With the right tools and parts, most homeowners can complete this repair in 1–2 hours and avoid a costly service call.

Part of our Top 20 Oven Models & Common Repair Issues Guide. Browse all oven repair guides for related models and issues.

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Common Symptoms & Causes

If your Whirlpool WFE550S0LZ is experiencing a bake element burnout, you may notice one or more of the following signs during preheating or baking cycles.

The oven fails to reach the set temperature or takes unusually long to preheat
A visible burn mark, blister, or hole appears on the lower bake element
The oven displays an F7 or F1-E0 error code on the control panel
Food bakes unevenly or the bottom of dishes remains completely uncooked

Bake element burnout is typically caused by normal wear over time, electrical surges, or a short circuit within the element itself, resulting in a broken heating coil that can no longer conduct heat properly.

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Safety First

Unplug the oven from the power outlet before starting any repair — never work on a live appliance.
Wear work gloves when handling metal brackets, sheet metal edges, or sharp components.
Take photos with your phone before disconnecting any wiring harnesses or connectors.
Work in a well-lit area with enough floor space to lay removed panels flat.

Tools & Parts Needed

Essential Tools

Phillips #2 screwdriver
¼” nut driver
Multimeter
Work gloves (heat-rated)
Flashlight

Replacement Parts

Step-by-Step Repair Instructions

Step 1

Unplug the range before doing anything else to eliminate shock risk from the 240V circuit. Open the oven door and closely inspect the bake element along the oven floor, looking for a visible burn hole, arc spot, or collapsed section — any of these confirms the element has failed rather than a control or wiring issue. A healthy element has no breaks or blistering, so even a small hole is definitive proof of failure.

Step 2

Remove the oven racks to give yourself clear access to the back wall where the element mounts. Use a ¼” hex driver to back out the two mounting screws securing the element bracket to the back wall — these are the only fasteners holding the element in place. Set the screws aside somewhere they won’t roll away, as they are easy to lose.

Step 3

Gently pull the element forward toward you; the wire harness behind the back wall has just enough slack to expose the two spade terminals. Before disconnecting anything, photograph the terminal positions so you can replicate them exactly on the new element — reversed polarity won’t damage the element but good documentation prevents confusion. Use needle-nose pliers to pull each spade connector straight off the element tabs, avoiding tugging on the wire itself to protect the harness.

Step 4

Set your multimeter to Rx1 (resistance) and probe both terminals of the old element to confirm the diagnosis. An open reading — infinite or OL resistance — confirms the element filament has broken and the part must be replaced. A reading showing some resistance with continuity means the element may still be intact and the fault could lie elsewhere, such as the element relay on the control board.

Step 5

Press each spade terminal firmly onto the corresponding tab of the new element until it seats fully — a loose connection will arc and damage the new part quickly. Feed the element back through the opening in the oven wall and align the mounting bracket, then drive the two ¼” hex screws snug. Do not overtighten, as these screws thread into a ceramic or porcelain boss that cracks easily under excess torque.

Step 6

Plug the range back in and set Bake to 350°F, then watch the element for the first few minutes. The element should begin glowing a uniform orange-red across its full length with no dark cold spots, which would indicate a partial break or a poor terminal connection. Preheat to 350°F should complete within 10 to 15 minutes; a significantly longer preheat suggests a wiring or control issue beyond the element itself.

Where to Buy Replacement Parts

Find genuine OEM and aftermarket replacement parts for your Whirlpool WFE550S0LZ (Electric Range) on Amazon:

When to Call a Professional

If the issue persists after completing all steps above, the problem may involve the sealed refrigerant system, a failed main control board, or wiring that requires specialized diagnostic equipment. Contact a licensed appliance technician — attempting sealed-system repairs without EPA 608 certification is illegal and unsafe.

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How Much Does This Repair Cost?

A replacement bake element for the Whirlpool WFE550S0LZ typically costs between $20 and $60 in parts alone. Hiring a professional appliance technician will usually run $150 to $300 once you factor in the service call and labor fees. By tackling this repair yourself, you can save over $100 while restoring your range to full working order.

“` ## Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if the bake element is burned out and not another component?

A burned-out bake element typically shows visible damage like cracks, holes, or scorch marks on the element itself. If the element looks intact, test it with a multimeter for continuity before replacing it.

Is it safe to replace the bake element myself on the Whirlpool WFE550S0LZ?

Yes, replacing the bake element is a manageable DIY repair as long as you disconnect power to the range at the breaker first. Always confirm the unit is fully unplugged before touching any internal components.

How much does a replacement bake element cost for this model?

A compatible bake element for the Whirlpool WFE550S0LZ typically costs between $20 and $50 depending on the supplier. Using the exact part number from your owner’s manual ensures a proper fit.

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