318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ is an electric cooktop heating element designed for use on Frigidaire range tops and similar electric ranges. It is a 6-inch diameter surface element (coil/radiant-style termination) that converts electrical energy into heat for direct transfer to cookware; as a field-replaceable component it includes the element body and electrical terminals that mate with the range’s surface element receptacle.
Within the appliance, the surface element functions as the primary heat generator for a designated burner location and interfaces directly with the range’s power distribution, user control (infinite) switch, and associated wiring and terminal block. It also works in conjunction with the cooktop surface and drip pan to shape heat transfer to pots and pans and can influence temperature uniformity and safety circuits. Faults in the element can produce open circuits, short-to-ground conditions, uneven heating, or nuisance tripping that effect the larger electrical and control subsystems of the range.
In this article readers will find a technical overview of the element’s function and construction, guidance on model and compatibility checks, common failure symptoms and diagnostic steps (continuity, resistance checks, visual inspection, voltage verification at terminals), troubleshooting approaches to isolate element versus switch or wiring faults, and practical replacement considerations such as matching diameter, wattage/voltage rating, terminal type, and safe power-isolation procedures prior to service.
Table of Contents
- Function and role of the Surface Element in Cooktop Heat Delivery and Control Systems
- How the 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ Works Within the Cooktop’s Electrical and Thermal System
- Common Failure Symptoms: Electrical, Thermal, and Mechanical Indicators of Surface Element Faults
- Replacement Considerations and Installation procedure: Safety, Compatibility Checks, and Wiring for Surface Element Exchange
- Q&A
- Concluding Remarks
Function and Role of the surface Element in Cooktop heat Delivery and Control Systems
The 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ is a 6‑inch circular resistive heating element that converts electrical energy into heat for direct transfer to cookware. In typical installation it connects to the cooktop’s control circuitry via quick‑connect terminals and is mounted over a drip pan or under a ceramic surface; the element itself produces heat by Joule heating of the internal resistance conductor. Technicians replacing or troubleshooting this part should verify terminal configuration, mounting style, and nominal power/voltage compatibility with the range model before installation, as physical diameter alone does not guarantee interchangeability across different control or receptacle arrangements.
The element’s role in the heat delivery and control system is to provide a predictable thermal source whose power output is determined by its resistance and the applied line voltage; control is achieved by cycling current through the element with an infinite switch, relay, or electronic power module, which modulates average heat by altering duty cycle. Common operational behaviors include steady heating when supplied continuously,rapid temperature decline when the element opens,and cycling under thermostat or control commands. Diagnostics typically involve measuring continuity and line voltage at the element terminals, observing cycling patterns from the control, and comparing oven behavior to expected response times. Safe, effective replacement and troubleshooting require isolating circuit power and confirming that the element’s terminal type and electrical ratings match the original equipment specifications.
- No heat or open circuit – element fails open, verified with multimeter continuity check.
- intermittent heating - may indicate loose terminal, control cycling, or partial internal break.
- Uneven heating or hotspots - internal damage or deformation affecting current distribution.
- Breaker trips or shorts to chassis – insulation failure causing leakage to ground.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 6 inches (nominal outer cooking surface) |
| Function | Resistive heating element converting electrical energy to thermal energy for cookware |
| Interface | Quick‑connect terminals to cooktop switch or electronic control; verify terminal count and orientation |
| Diagnostic check | continuity/multimeter resistance and line voltage at terminals; inspect for visible damage or grounding |
How the 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range surface element 6″ Works Within the Cooktop’s Electrical and Thermal System
The 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ functions as a resistive heater that interfaces directly with the cooktop’s electrical and control systems.Electrically, the element is a low‑voltage drop resistive coil terminated in two insulated lugs that connect to the range’s terminal block and to the infinite (or surface) switch; the switch modulates the applied line voltage as a duty cycle to control average power. Thermally, the element converts electrical energy into heat through Joule heating, transfers that heat through its mounting flange and any glass-ceramic top to the cookware, and is subject to heat spread and losses to the cooktop structure. Mechanical fit (diameter and mounting tabs) and terminal type must match the cooktop; mismatches in mounting depth, lug spacing, or rated voltage will affect heat transfer and safety.
- Electrical interface: connects to surface switch and terminal block; expected to be an open circuit when failed (no continuity).
- Thermal behavior: heats by conduction to cookware and by radiation across the glass surface; uneven contact or a cracked glass top changes performance.
- Compatibility checks: confirm voltage/wattage rating, terminal lug style, and mounting flange dimensions before replacement.
- Common symptoms of fault: no heat (open element), rapid tripping of protection devices (short to ground), or inconsistent temperature across the element.
For troubleshooting and selection, verify continuity and calculate expected resistance using R = V²/P with the oven’s nominal voltage and the element’s rated wattage; for example, a 240 V circuit supplying 1,500 W would imply about 38.4 Ω. Use a multimeter to compare measured resistance against the calculated value, and inspect for visual damage, burned terminals, or degraded insulation. Replacement elements must preserve the original electrical rating and physical mounting to maintain proper control behavior and thermal performance; additionally, confirm that any listed thermal cutouts or temperature sensors in the cooktop assembly are compatible with the replacement to avoid false trips or overheating.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Element diameter | 6″ nominal surface element for matching cooktop openings |
| Primary function | Resistive heating element converting electrical power to heat |
| Diagnostic | Continuity check and resistance calculation (R = V²/P) |
Common Failure Symptoms: Electrical,Thermal,and Mechanical Indicators of Surface Element Faults
The 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ is a sealed surface heating element that converts mains voltage into heat via an internal resistive conductor; electrical failures typically present as an open circuit,a short to ground,or intermittent continuity at the element terminals. Technicians should verify continuity between the two element terminals (open = failed conductor) and check for continuity from each terminal to the element shell (presence = short to ground).Confirm terminal style and mounting dimensions before replacing the part, since compatibility depends on terminal type (lug, spade) and the element’s mounting bracket, not just diameter.
Thermal and mechanical indicators frequently enough accompany or mimic electrical faults: localized overheating, blistering of the enamel, warped or detached elements, loose or corroded terminal studs, and visible arcing are common signs that the element should be replaced. For example,if the element glows but the adjacent cooktop remains cool,the internal conductor may be broken; if an element causes repeated breaker trips or a burning smell,insulation breakdown or a short to chassis is likely. Visually inspect mounting hardware and wiring harnesses, perform a multimeter check with the circuit de-energized, and replace the element with one matching the original specifications to restore safe, uniform heating.
- No heat or open circuit at terminals
- Intermittent heating or hot spots
- Arcing, burning odor, or visible enamel damage
- Tripped breakers or blown thermal fuses
- Loose/corroded terminals or warped element geometry
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| No continuity | Open internal conductor-element needs replacement |
| Continuity to shell | Short to ground-insulation failure or breach |
| Visible warping or blistering | Thermal degradation or mechanical stress causing uneven heating |
Replacement Considerations and Installation Procedure: Safety, Compatibility Checks, and Wiring for Surface Element Exchange
The 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ is a 6‑inch radiant cooktop element designed to replace the stock heating unit in compatible frigidaire ranges. Functionally it is a resistive heating coil housed in a stamped steel sheath that couples to the cooktop receptacle via two quick‑connect terminals and a retaining clip; electrical behavior is purely resistive with a warm‑up curve determined by coil mass and sheath conductivity. Compatibility requires matching the element diameter, terminal style and spacing, and the wattage/voltage rating for the range model-mechanical interchange is not sufficient if the terminal geometry or nominal wattage differs, as mismatched wattage changes heat output and may overload control switches or wiring. Before handling,isolate the circuit and verify that the replacement element’s mounting and terminal arrangement align with the cooktop opening and bracket on the specific appliance model.
Installation centers on safe isolation, verifying continuity/resistance, and correct reconnection of the line conductors and ground. Disconnect power at the breaker and confirm absence of voltage with a meter, then measure the element cold resistance; elements of this size commonly fall within a resistance range consistent with their wattage (typical 900-1500 W ratings correspond to roughly 20-60 Ω at 240 V), which helps confirm the part is not open or shorted. During wiring, match each supply conductor to the appropriate terminal using properly sized insulated spade connectors, secure the element with its retaining clip to prevent movement, and inspect surrounding insulation and switch contacts for heat damage; after reassembly, restore power and perform a low‑power functional test to confirm even heating and absence of arcing. For practical troubleshooting,check terminal tightness and swap with a working element only when the voltage and mounting are confirmed compatible.
- Pre‑installation checks: verify part number, terminal type, mounting clip, and rated voltage.
- Electrical checks: confirm power off, measure resistance/continuity, inspect wiring insulation.
- Installation steps: connect spade terminals, secure retaining clip, reassemble trim and test at low setting.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Terminal type | quick‑connect spade (match size and spacing) |
| Expected cold resistance | Approximately 20-60 Ω for 6″ elements in the 900-1500 W range |
| Mounting | 6″ diameter element, retaining clip or bracket per cooktop model |
Q&A
What is the 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″?
The 318178110 is an OEM replacement 6‑inch open coil surface element intended for Frigidaire electric ranges. It is the small (front or rear) surface burner used to heat cookware on ranges that use removable coil elements. It generally has plug‑on terminals and is a direct replacement when the original element is the same size and terminal style.
How do I confirm this element will fit my Frigidaire range?
Confirm fitment by comparing the part number on your existing element (if visible), the element diameter (6 inches), and the terminal type (plug‑on/bayonet style). Also check your range model number against OEM parts listings or the Frigidaire parts website. If the element dimensions, terminal configuration and voltage/wattage rating match, it will be a compatible replacement.
How can I tell if the element is faulty?
Common signs are no heat,intermittent heating,visible breaks or blisters in the coil,or arcing. To test: disconnect power, remove the element, and measure continuity across the two terminals with a multimeter. A working element shows continuity (low resistance). An open circuit (infinite resistance) means the element is broken. For more detailed checks you can compare measured resistance to the element’s rated voltage/wattage using R = V²/P (such as, if you no the element rating, calculate expected ohms and compare).
How do I safely replace the 318178110 element?
Safety first: disconnect the range from power at the breaker. Remove the burner drip pan and gently lift the defective coil to disconnect it from the receptacle. Pull the element clear of the support and replace it with the new 6″ element by aligning the plug‑on terminals and seating it into the receptacle, then lower it into the support. Restore power and test. Do not force connectors; ensure the replacement matches the original in size and terminal type.
Can I substitute a different brand or universal 6″ element?
Yes, you can substitute a different-brand element only if the replacement matches the original element’s diameter, terminal type, and electrical rating (voltage/wattage). However, OEM parts like 318178110 are recommended to ensure proper fit and performance. Avoid using elements designed for different cooktop types (such as,radiant elements for glass‑top ranges).
What can cause uneven heating or a burner that cycles on and off rapidly?
Uneven heating or rapid cycling can be caused by a partially failed element (internal breaks), a loose or corroded terminal connection, a faulty infinite switch (surface burner control), or incorrect supply voltage. Inspect and test the element for continuity and visible damage, check the receptacle and wiring for secure connections, and if the element tests good, test or replace the surface control switch.
How should I clean and maintain this coil element?
Always let the element cool and the range be powered off before cleaning. Wipe the coil with a damp cloth and mild detergent; avoid immersing the terminal ends or using abrasive pads that can damage the coil finish. clean drip pans and re‑seat the element properly. Regular cleaning of pans and elements helps prevent uneven heating and corrosion.
Can I use this open coil 6″ element on a glass‑ceramic (smooth) cooktop?
No. Glass‑ceramic smooth‑top ranges require specially designed radiant or recessed elements that sit under the glass surface. Open coil elements like the 318178110 are for drop‑in or coil‑style ranges and will not fit or function correctly on smooth tops and may damage the cooktop.
Concluding Remarks
The 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ serves as a primary heating component for compatible Frigidaire cooktops, delivering concentrated heat for pots and pans and contributing to overall cooking performance and temperature consistency. As a direct replacement element designed to match factory specifications, it plays a key role in restoring proper surface heating, energy efficiency, and safe operation when the original element has degraded or failed.
Accurate diagnosis is essential before replacing the element: symptoms such as uneven heating, a burner that fails to heat, visible damage or discoloration, or tripped controls can indicate element failure but may also stem from wiring, switches, or control issues. Confirming the fault-through visual inspection, continuity testing, or professional troubleshooting-helps ensure that replacement of the 318178110 element is the appropriate corrective action and prevents unnecessary parts purchases or overlooked electrical problems.
When replacement is necessary, using the correct 318178110 Frigidaire part and following manufacturer-recommended installation and safety procedures helps restore performance, maintain appliance reliability, and reduce the risk of further damage. For individuals who are uncomfortable with electrical diagnostics or appliance disassembly, seeking a qualified service technician preserves warranty considerations and ensures the repair is completed safely and effectively.
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