318255006 Frigidaire Oven Range Bake Element is an electric tubular resistance heating element designed for use in Frigidaire oven ranges; it is the primary heating component used during the bake cycle and is typically a metal-sheathed element that mounts to the oven cavity floor or rear wall and connects to the appliance’s high-current supply. As a replaceable OEM part number, it is sized and shaped to fit specific Frigidaire models and is engineered to convert incoming electrical power into radiant and convective heat within the oven cavity.
Within the appliance system the bake element’s role is to generate and distribute heat to reach and maintain set baking temperatures, working in concert with the oven control board, temperature sensor or thermostat, line-voltage wiringand safety devices such as high-limit thermostats or thermal fuses. Electrically it is indeed part of the mains heating circuit-typically driven by a relay or solid-state switch on the control board-and mechanically it is secured to the oven cavity and surrounded by insulation; its thermal performance affects temperature uniformity, warm-up timeand overall cooking results. The bake element is distinct from the broil element by locationorientation and control logic, but failures in either can present with similar symptoms and interact with the same control and safety subsystems.
This article will describe the bake element’s function and construction, explain how to verify compatibility with specific Frigidaire models, list common failure symptoms to recognize (open circuit, visible damage, uneven heatingor tripping protections)and outline standard diagnostic checks a technician or informed owner can perform, such as continuity and voltage verification at the element terminals. It will also cover practical replacement considerations-confirming OEM part numbers, ensuring correct electrical connections and mountingand observing basic safety precautions like disconnecting power-so readers can make informed decisions about troubleshooting and repair.
Table of contents
- Function and Role of the Bake Element in Heat Generation and Temperature Regulation
- How the 318255006 Frigidaire Oven Range Bake Element Works Inside the Appliance
- Common Failure Symptoms and Diagnostic Tests for element and Circuit Faults
- Compatibility, Replacement Considerationsand Step-by-Step Installation Procedures
- Q&A
- In summary
Function and Role of the Bake Element in Heat Generation and Temperature Regulation
The 318255006 Frigidaire Oven Range Bake Element is a resistive heating element mounted at the bottom of the oven cavity that converts electrical energy into infrared and convective heat to raise the oven temperature. Internally it contains a resistance coil embedded in a compacted insulating powder and a steel sheath; when line voltage is applied the coil heats and the sheath radiates heat into the cavity. The bake element works together with the oven’s temperature sensor and control board: the controller supplies line voltage in timed cycles to reach and hold the setpointand the sensor provides feedback that causes the element to cycle on and off. For compatibility, use the exact part number or verify voltage, wattage, terminal styleand mounting bracket because physical and electrical differences between bake and broil elements or between models can affect fit and performance.
- Common symptoms of element issues: long preheat times, inability to reach temperature, uneven browning, visible blisters or breaks in the sheath, or no continuity on an ohmmeter.
- Testing guidance: with power disconnected, measure continuity and use R = V²/P to estimate expected resistance; such as, a ~2400 W element on a 240 V supply should read roughly 24 Ω.
- Replacement considerations: match electrical rating and terminal type, secure mounting to preserve heat transferand confirm insulation and sealing to avoid short circuits or arcing.
In normal operation the bake element does not provide continuous full power; it modulates via the control board or a mechanical thermostat to maintain temperature within a band. Cycling frequency and duty cycle vary with setpoint, oven loadand door openings; large thermal loads or poor sealing increase on-time and can expose marginal elements to premature overheating. Technicians should inspect electrical connections and mounting for corrosion or looseness, verify element continuity and resistance at ambient temperatureand replace any element that shows open circuits, large deviations from the calculated resistanceor physical damage. Keeping spare information such as the part number, nominal wattageand terminal configuration simplifies service and ensures restored performance after replacement.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| typical voltage | Domestic range commonly uses 240 V for bake element operation |
| Typical power range | Approximately 1.2-3.0 kW depending on model and oven size |
| Quick test | Disconnect power, measure resistance; compare with R = V²/P to validate |
how the 318255006 Frigidaire Oven Range Bake Element Works Inside the Appliance
The 318255006 Frigidaire Oven Range Bake Element is a resistive heating element mounted at the bottom of the oven cavity that converts electrical energy into longwave infrared and convective heat to maintain bake temperatures. It is energized by the range control (relay or triac) under thermostat or temperature-sensor feedback and is designed to match the original mounting, terminal spacing, and wattage characteristics of the factory part. Technically,the element is a metal sheath containing a resistive alloy conductor; proper function requires continuity of the internal coil and electrical isolation from the sheath.Technicians verify operation by measuring continuity between the element terminals and checking for a short to chassis groundand by confirming that the control board supplies the expected line voltage to the element during a bake cycle.
During normal operation the element cycles on and off to maintain set temperatures; its thermal mass and placement contribute to heat distribution across the oven floor and lower cavity. Common failure modes include open-circuit breaks in the internal coil, sheath corrosion or perforationand terminal assembly failures; symptoms include no heat, partial heatingor visible deformity of the element surface. When replacing the element,match the mechanical fit and electrical ratings to the appliance and isolate power before service. Practical troubleshooting sequence for a non-heating oven is to confirm supply voltage at the element terminals, check element continuity, inspect the element for visible damageand then investigate control outputs or wiring if the element tests good.
- Typical checks: continuity test, short-to-ground test, visual inspection for breaks or blistering.
- Symptoms of failure: oven fails to heat, uneven baking, or circuit breaker tripping.
- Compatibility considerations: confirm terminal type, mounting bracketand wattage before ordering replacement.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Lower oven cavity, secured with mounting bracket and exposed terminals at the rear. |
| Function | Resistive heater providing infrared and convective heat during bake cycles. |
| Diagnostic | Measure continuity between terminals and check for voltage from control during a call for heat. |
Common Failure Symptoms and Diagnostic Tests for Element and Circuit Faults
The most common signs of element or circuit faults with an oven include no heat, partial or uneven heating, visible damage to the elementand tripped breakers or blown fuses. The 318255006 Frigidaire Oven Range Bake Element can fail either as an open circuit (internal break) or as a short/ground fault; an open element will show infinite continuity and will not heat, while a short to ground can cause the panel to trip or the control board to behave erratically. Technicians often observe localized luminous spots, blistering of the sheathor arcing marks at terminals as physical evidence of failureand these behaviors correlate with specific electrical test results described below.
- No heat or only one zone heating
- Element glows partially or intermittently
- Breaker trips when bake function is selected
- Continuity reads open or resistance out of expected range
- Continuity between element and chassis (ground) indicates leakage
Diagnostic tests begin with safe isolation of power, removal of the element from the ovenand a visual inspection of the element and terminal block. Use a digital multimeter to perform a continuity check across the element terminals; most 240 V bake elements will read in the range of 10-40 Ω depending on wattage-values significantly outside that range or an open circuit indicate replacement. Next, check for continuity between each terminal and chassis ground; any continuity here implies insulation failure or a short to the sheath. If the element passes resistance and ground tests, re-install and measure live voltage at the terminal block with the control calling for heat-reading approximately 240 V confirms the supply is present and points toward control or wiring faults rather than the element itself.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Continuity / resistance | Typical bake element: 10-40 Ω; open = infinite, short = low or zero Ω |
| Ground leakage | no continuity between element terminals and chassis expected; continuity = leakage/short |
| Terminal voltage | ~240 V at terminals when bake is selected (U.S. single-phase residential supply) |
Compatibility, Replacement Considerationsand Step-by-Step Installation Procedures
The 318255006 Frigidaire oven Range Bake Element is a tubular resistive heater designed to produce the uniform radiant heat required for baking cycles.Internally it contains a nickel-chromium heating coil surrounded by compacted insulating material and a stainless-steel sheath; this construction provides stable thermal output and physical protection. Typical household oven elements operate on the appliance’s 240 VAC supply and exhibit a cold resistance in the tens of ohms (for common wattages this is often in the ~20-40 Ω range), so multimeter continuity and resistance checks are effective diagnostics. Compatibility depends on more than the OEM number: mounting-tab spacing,overall length,and terminal style (male spade vs. bolt-on) must match the oven cavity and wiring harness. Using an element with a different wattage will change heat-up rates and thermostat cycling, which can affect cook times and temperature stability in practical use.
Before replacement, verify the replacement element matches electrical and mechanical specifications and inspect terminal insulators, grommetsand mounting hardware for damage. Confirm the element has failed by measuring open-circuit continuity or by checking for a short to chassis with an insulation-resistance style check; visible deformation, blisteringor arcing marks at the terminals are additional indicators. typical installation follows a simple sequence: remove oven racks, isolate power at the circuit breaker and confirm de-energized, remove the interior fasteners holding the element, disconnect the wiring (note or photograph wire positions), install the new element ensuring correct orientation and secure mounting, reconnect wires to clean terminalsand then restore power and perform a bake test at a moderate temperature to confirm operation and absence of abnormal odors or arcing.
- Safety first: switch off the circuit breaker and verify no voltage at the element terminals before touching wiring.
- Use a multimeter to confirm continuity and to compare resistance with the expected range for the element’s rated wattage.
- Match mounting tab spacing and terminal type to avoid mechanical or electrical stress after installation.
- After installation, observe the element during the first heat cycle for even heating and absence of sparking.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Voltage | 240 VAC (typical household range oven supply) |
| Typical resistance | Approximately 20-40 Ω depending on wattage |
| Wattage | Common bake elements: roughly 2000-3000 W (verify specific value for model) |
| Mounting / Terminals | Rear mounting tabs; standard male spade terminals (verify size and insulating grommet) |
| OEM Part | 318255006 Frigidaire Oven Range Bake Element |
Q&A
What is the 318255006 Frigidaire Oven Range Bake Element and what does it do?
The 318255006 is an OEM replacement bake element used in Frigidaire-style electric ovens and ranges. It is the heating element mounted in the bottom of the oven cavity that provides the radiant heat used for baking and slow roasting.
How do I know if the bake element is bad?
Common symptoms of a failing bake element include the oven not heating or taking much longer to reach temperature, uneven baking or hot spots, visible breaks, blistersor burn marks on the elementand in some cases tripping a circuit breaker. A visible break or an element that produces no heat are clear signs it needs replacement.
How can I test the 318255006 bake element with a multimeter?
first disconnect power at the breaker. Remove the element from the oven so you can access the terminals. Set a multimeter to the ohms (Ω) or continuity setting and measure across the two element terminals – a good element will show continuity and a low resistance value (see next FAQ for typical ranges). If the meter reads open/infinite resistance, the element is open and must be replaced. Also check for a short to chassis by measuring each terminal to the metal oven body; there should be no continuity (open).
what resistance or wattage should I expect from this bake element?
Values depend on the oven model and element wattage, but typical household bake elements are in the 1,500-3,500 watt range. For a 240 V element, that corresponds roughly to about 16-38 ohms for 1,500-3,500 W and commonly about 20-60 Ω for many elements. Check the oven’s service manual or the part’s specification sheet for the exact rating for your model.
Is it tough to replace the 318255006 bake element myself?
Replacing the bake element is a fairly straightforward job for someone agreeable with basic appliance work: turn off power at the breaker,remove oven racks,unfasten the mounting screws or nuts holding the element,pull it forward to expose the wiring,disconnect the terminal connectors,and install the new element in reverse. However, always cut power first and if you are unsure or uncomfortable working around live wiring, hire a qualified appliance technician.
Can I use a bake element from a different model or use the broil element instead?
No – bake and broil elements are often different lengths,shapes,wattages,and mounting configurations. While some elements are interchangeable across models, you should use the exact part number or a confirmed compatible replacement to ensure proper fit, performanceand safety.
How should I clean and care for the bake element to extend its life?
Let the element cool entirely before cleaning. Gently wipe it with a soft cloth dampened with warm,soapy water to remove light spills. Avoid abrasive scrubbing pads or harsh chemical cleaners that can damage the element’s surface. Do not use self-clean with a visibly damaged element – replace it first.
Where can I buy a genuine 318255006 bake element and does it come with a warranty?
Genuine 318255006 elements are available from Frigidaire/owner’s parts dealers, authorized appliance parts retailersand many reputable online stores.When buying, confirm the part number and compatibility with your oven model. Warranty length varies by seller and manufacturer - common warranties range from 30 days to one year – so check the vendor’s warranty and return policy before purchasing.
in Summary
The 318255006 Frigidaire oven range bake element is a critical component responsible for generating the consistent, bottom heat required for baking and roasting.Its condition directly affects oven temperature accuracy, cooking performanceand overall appliance efficiency; a properly functioning bake element helps ensure even results, predictable cook times, and safe operation of the range.
Because symptoms of a failing bake element-such as uneven cooking, a lack of heat, visible damageor tripping circuits-can resemble other oven faults, proper diagnosis is crucial before replacement.Verifying the issue with visual inspection and electrical testing, following safe power-disconnection proceduresand installing the correct replacement part (318255006) or using qualified service helps restore performance, maintain efficiencyand reduce the risk of further damage. Timely, accurate repair ensures the oven returns to reliable, safe service.
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