318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ is a 6-inch resistive surface heating element intended for use on Frigidaire electric ranges.It is a replaceable cooktop heating element that converts electrical energy into heat for direct contact with cookware; mechanically it sits in the cooktop opening and electrically connects to the range’s terminal block or receptacle assembly. As a discrete serviceable part,it is identified by its size and part number to ensure correct fit and electrical compatibility with the range model.
Functionally, the surface element acts as the primary load in the cooking circuit, producing predictable heat output when supplied by the control system. It interfaces with the user control (infinite switch or electronic control board), the wiring harness and terminal blockand the physical mount or drip pan that supports cookware and manages heat distribution. The element’s electrical resistance, terminal type and physical dimensions determine its wattage, heating profile and how it integrates into the appliance’s thermal and electrical systems.
This article will explain the element’s operating principle and typical specifications, how to verify compatibility with specific range models, common failure symptoms (for example no heat, intermittent operation, arcing, uneven heating or visible damage)and diagnostic checks a technician or owner can perform safely (visual inspection, continuity and voltage checksand receptacle inspection). It will also cover practical replacement considerations - matching size,terminal configuration and ratings,and safe handling and isolation of power before service - to support informed troubleshooting and repair decisions.
Table of Contents
- H2: Functional Role and Electrical Specifications of the Oven Range Surface Element
- H2: How the 318178110 Frigidaire oven Range Surface Element 6″ Integrates with Cooktop Wiring, Controls, and Thermal Regulation
- H2: Common Failure symptoms, Electrical Test Points and Diagnostic Indicators for Surface Element Malfunctions
- H2: Compatibility, Model Fitment and Replacement installation Procedures for Frigidaire Range Surface Elements
- Q&A
- Final Thoughts
H2: Functional Role and Electrical Specifications of the Oven Range Surface Element
The 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ is a resistive heating element that converts electrical energy into conductive and radiative heat for cookware on the cooktop. It is an open-coil, 6-inch surface unit that mounts into the drip pan and interfaces with the range’s infinite switch or electronic control; the element’s operating characteristics are defined by its resistance, applied voltageand the control duty cycle. Technicians encounter predictable failure modes-open coil, intermittent contact at spade terminalsor degraded insulation to chassis-that manifest as no heat, pulsing heator uneven ring temperatureand these symptoms should be diagnosed by measuring continuity, terminal integrityand visible deformation before replacement.
Typical electrical behaviour for a 6″ surface element is described by its nominal voltage and wattage; many electric ranges use 240 V elements with wattage commonly in the 1,000-1,800 W range, so resistance is on the order of tens of ohms (use the relation R = V² / P to estimate resistance – e.g., 240²/1,200 ≈ 48 Ω). Verify compatibility by matching voltage rating, wattage, physical diameter, mounting lipand spade terminal spacing; measure element DC resistance and check for leakage to chassis with an insulation tester or multimeter before installation. For safe service,always de-energize the appliance and document the original wiring configuration and control type to ensure the replacement element reproduces the intended thermal response.
- Diameter: 6″ nominal - confirm outer ring and mounting lip dimensions.
- Voltage: commonly 240 V in household electric ranges - verify on the appliance data plate.
- Wattage: typically 1,000-1,800 W depending on model and dual-ring options.
- Connector: insulated spade terminals; terminal spacing must match the range harness.
- Expected resistance: tens of ohms; calculate with R = V²/P and confirm with a multimeter.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 6″ nominal cooking surface; confirm mounting lip size |
| Nominal voltage | Typically 240 V for electric ranges; check appliance wiring |
| Typical wattage | ~1,000-1,800 W depending on model and dual-ring configuration |
| expected DC resistance | Approx. 20-100 Ω (use R = V²/P to estimate) |
| Connection | Spade terminal(s); direct-fit replacements require identical terminal spacing |
H2: How the 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ Integrates with Cooktop Wiring, Controls, and Thermal Regulation
The 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ is a resistive heating element that interfaces directly with the cooktop wiring harness via two spade-style terminals. In most Frigidaire electric ranges the element is designed for single-phase line-to-line operation (nominal 240 V in North American installations) and mounts into the cooktop opening using clips and a drip pan. The electrical connection is simple: the element’s two terminals receive switched line voltage from an infinite (mechanical) switch or an electronic relay on the range control board. Technicians should verify terminal spacing and wattage rating when replacing this element to ensure compatibility with the existing switch, wiring harness, and mounting hardware; mismatched wattage or incorrect terminal geometry can overload switches or prevent proper seating in the cooktop opening.
Thermal regulation for this surface element is achieved by duty-cycle control rather than direct element temperature sensing.Mechanical infinite switches or solid-state relays modulate the fraction of time the element sees full line voltage to approximate power settings; at low settings the controller provides short bursts of full power separated by off periods, while at high settings it delivers near-continuous power. The cooktop’s protective devices – typically a high-limit thermostat or thermal cutoff located beneath the cooktop – interrupt power if a sustained overtemperature condition occurs. Radiant and convective heat transfer from the element to cookware affect perceived heating speed and control responsiveness, so practical troubleshooting often involves measuring line voltage at the element terminals under load and confirming the control device is cycling rather than the element being open or shorted.
- Electrical interface: two spade terminals to range switch or relay
- Typical operating supply: line-to-line 240 V (verify on model label)
- Control method: infinite switch (mechanical) or electronic relay duty-cycle
- Safety: high-limit thermostat/thermal cutoff in series for overtemperature protection
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Voltage | Nominal line-to-line 240 V (confirm on appliance nameplate) |
| Typical power | Approximately 1,200 W (model-dependent; check part label) |
| Terminal type | Two spade lugs; check spacing and orientation for connector fit |
| Control interface | Mechanical infinite switch or electronic relay from range control board |
H2: Common Failure Symptoms, Electrical Test Points and Diagnostic Indicators for Surface Element Malfunctions
The 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ is a 6-inch tubular radiant element used on compatible Frigidaire electric cooktops to convert electrical energy into heat via an internal resistive coil. Mechanically it mounts into the cooktop receptacle and connects to two spade terminals (with some designs using a third sensing or support terminal); electrical compatibility requires matching terminal spacing and the element’s rated voltage/wattage to the oven range’s supply. Physically cracked insulation,bent terminals,or incorrect replacement elements that do not match the original mounting or rating will cause poor heat transfer,uneven cooking,or electrical faults rather than improving performance.
Common failure symptoms include complete loss of heat, reduced or uneven output on one burner, intermittent operation, visible arcingor a tripped breaker. Technicians should verify basic continuity across the two main terminals with a multimeter (continuity/ohms) and check each terminal to chassis for a short-to-ground. Measure line voltage at the cooktop terminal block to confirm proper supply (compare to the oven’s nominal rating) before condemning an element; an element showing open circuit requires replacement,while continuity with short-to-ground or visible damage also mandates replacement. For context, a spare element that matches the original 318178110 specification and shows low-to-moderate resistance (single- to double-digit ohms, depending on wattage) but produces no heat usually indicates upstream wiring or terminal connection issues rather than an element defect.
- No heat: check for open circuit across element terminals.
- Uneven heating: inspect for partial open strands and compare resistance to a known-good element.
- Intermittent operation or arcing: look for loose/burned terminals or cracked insulation.
- Tripping breaker: verify element is not shorting to chassis and confirm correct element rating vs. supply voltage.
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Continuity (Ω) | Low-to-moderate resistance (single- to double-digit ohms for a 6″ element); open = replace. |
| Short to chassis | Any measurable continuity from terminal to sheath indicates insulation failure and replacement. |
| Line voltage | Verify voltage at terminal block matches element rating (confirm with service sheet) before replacing element. |
H2: Compatibility, Model Fitment and Replacement Installation Procedures for Frigidaire Range Surface Elements
The 318178110 Frigidaire Oven Range Surface Element 6″ is a 6-inch resistive heating element designed for electric cooktops; it delivers heat through an exposed coil or sealed tubular element and must match the stove’s mounting geometry, terminal configurationand electrical ratings to function correctly. Compatibility depends on three measurable factors: the element diameter (6″), the connector style (straight or offset spade terminals)and the retainer/mounting style (drop-in with spring clip or screw-secured). Technicians should verify the appliance model tag and compare the old element’s terminal spacing and pan fit before ordering a replacement, and note that cosmetic finishes or radius of the element may differ without affecting electrical fit if the terminals and mounting align precisely.
Replacement installation requires basic electrical safety and attention to mechanical fit. Disconnect power at the breaker, remove control knobs and drip pans, and support the element while disconnecting terminals to avoid bending or breaking the spade connectors; a quick continuity check with a multimeter confirms the new element is not open before full reassembly. After seating the element into the cooktop and securing any retainers, run the element through a low-to-medium heat cycle to verify even heating and absence of arcing. Practical checklist and reference data follow to guide compatibility verification and the common installation sequence.
- Shut power at the breaker and confirm with a meter.
- Remove knobs and drip pans, note terminal orientation and spacing.
- Unplug old element,transfer or replace mounting hardware,connect new element terminals firmly.
- Restore power and perform low-power functional test, inspect for uneven heating or electrical noise.
| Item | description |
|---|---|
| Diameter | 6″ (nominal cooktop element size) |
| Terminal type | Two spade terminals; confirm straight vs offset spacing |
| Mounting | Drop-in spring clip or screw-retained-match cooktop retainer style |
| Verification | Confirm model tag, measure terminal spacing, continuity test before full reassembly |
Q&A
What is Frigidaire part 318178110?
Part 318178110 is a 6-inch replacement radiant surface element (coil/burner) used on frigidaire electric ranges and cooktops. It is the removable heating coil that sits in a drip pan and connects to the range’s terminal block to provide heat for cooking.
How can I tell if 318178110 will fit my range?
Check your appliance model number and the manufacturer’s parts diagram or parts list; the parts diagram will show the exact replacement part number. Also verify physical details: the element diameter (6″), the terminal style (straight spade terminals or other connector)and the voltage/wattage required by your range. If those match, the element should be compatible.
What are the electrical specifications for a 6″ surface element and how can I confirm them?
typical 6″ surface elements for US electric ranges commonly run on 240 V and are in the ~1,200-1,500 W range, but actual ratings vary by model.To confirm a specific element’s rating check the part label or the appliance’s service manual. You can calculate expected resistance from R = V^2 / P (for example, 240 V and 1,200 W gives about 40 ohms). Use a multimeter to measure resistance and compare to the expected value for confirmation.
How do I test if the element is bad?
Always disconnect power first. Visually inspect for breaks, blistersor burn-through. Use a multimeter set to continuity or resistance: remove one connector and measure across the two element terminals - a healthy element shows a finite resistance (tens of ohms depending on wattage); an open circuit (infinite resistance) means the element is failed. Also check for short to ground by measuring between a terminal and the element sheath/drip-pan contact – there should be no continuity to ground. If there is continuity to ground, the element is leaking and should be replaced.
How do I replace the 6″ element (general steps)?
Turn off power at the breaker or disconnect the appliance, allow the element to cooland remove any drip pan. Most elements lift up slightly and then pull straight out of the terminal block. If the terminal connectors are seperate,pull the spade connectors off the old element and attach them to the new one in the same positions. Seat the new element into the socket and lower it into the drip pan. Restore power and test. Some models may use screws or clips-consult the range’s service manual for model-specific instructions and always confirm power is off before touching wiring.
Can I substitute a different wattage or an aftermarket element for 318178110?
Only use a replacement that matches the original element’s electrical rating (voltage and wattage),physical size (6″),and terminal type. Using a higher-wattage element can overload the circuit or cause uneven cooking; a lower-wattage element can underperform. OEM Frigidaire parts are recommended for exact fit, but quality aftermarket parts are acceptable if they match the specifications exactly.
My new element sparks or doesn’t heat evenly – what could be wrong?
Sparking usually indicates a poor or loose electrical connection at the terminals or a damaged connector. Uneven heating can be caused by a partial open in the element coil or a faulty infinite/burner switch or control. With power off, inspect terminal connectors for corrosion or damage and ensure they are seated tightly. If connections are good, verify voltage at the element terminals with the burner switched on (qualified technician recommended) to check the switch or control board.
How should I clean and care for the surface element to extend its life?
Let the element cool wholly before cleaning. Wipe with a damp cloth and mild detergent; avoid abrasive pads or harsh chemicals that can damage the surface. Do not submerge the element’s electrical connections in water. Avoid dropping or hitting the coiland avoid using pots/pans with warped bottoms that put uneven stress on the element. Regularly clean spills from drip pans to prevent corrosion that can damage the element.
Final Thoughts
The 318178110 Frigidaire oven range surface element (6″) serves as a primary heating component for a dedicated cooking zone, delivering the controlled surface heat required for stovetop cooking. As a direct-fit replacement designed to meet original equipment specifications, it contributes to consistent heat distribution, predictable cooking performance and the overall efficiency and reliability of compatible Frigidaire ranges.
Timely and accurate diagnosis is important when a surface element shows signs of failure-such as uneven heating, no heat, visible damage or electrical issues-because these symptoms can stem from multiple causes including the element itself, terminal connections, switches or wiring. Verifying the element with appropriate inspections and electrical tests before replacement helps ensure the correct fault is addressed and avoids unnecessary parts replacement.
When replacement is necessary,installing the correct 318178110 element and following proper safety and installation procedures restores safe operation and preserves appliance performance. Whether performed by a qualified technician or a knowledgeable homeowner, careful diagnosis, use of the correct partand post-installation testing reduce the risk of recurrence and support the long-term function of the range.
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