Steps On How To Replace The Glass Top On Your Range
A cracked or chipped glass stove top can be a big safety hazard. It’s also difficult to work with, so it’s best to leave this project to a professional if you’re not comfortable trying it on your own.
Remove The Cooktop
If you are replacing the glass top on your range, you will need to remove the cooktop from the stove. You should unplug the range before removing it. This will help protect your floors and prevent damage from the rewiring process. This can be a complicated task that requires professional help if you do not have the necessary tools.
Remove The Burners
If your stove burners are stuck on the sides or bottom of your glass top, you will need to remove them before replacing the glass cooktop. Burners on electric ranges are generally easy to replace and don’t require any special tools or knowledge to do. Before removing the burners, read your product manual to see which areas are safe and which ones require special cleaning methods. This will make your job a lot easier! To clean the burner heads and caps, mix water and baking soda to create a paste. Apply this to the grates and let them sit for 15-30 minutes. Rinse well and dry before reassembling the parts.
Disconnect The Wires
If you’re replacing the glass top on your range, disconnecting the wires from your stove is an important step. It will prevent any damage from occurring during the process. The wiring for an electric stove usually consists of three conductors: two power wires and one neutral. In 1996, the National Electrical Code updated its guidelines to require that all circuits for these appliances use four-conductor cords and receptacles. To disconnect the wires, remove the back access panel on your range. Thread the cord through the panel, then connect the wires into their matching screw terminals.
Lift The Cooktop
Depending on the model of your range, you may need to lift the cooktop away from the frame before you can remove it. Refer to your stove’s user manual for the exact location of screws holding the cooktop in place. Wear gloves when lifting the cooktop to avoid cutting yourself on broken glass. Also, be aware of how deep the cracks are in your stovetop. If they are too deep, the cracks could break further.
Place The New Cooktop
When you are ready to place the new cooktop, it is best to have a helper stand behind the stove and support the cooktop from beneath with clamps or supports. These will keep the cooktop from shifting and will also make it easier to hook up gas piping later. After you have secured the new cooktop in place, be sure to check for any leaks on the hose or pipes. If you detect a leak, do not proceed with installation.
Reinstall The Burners
Reinstalling the burners from your stove is a fairly straightforward process. You will likely need to consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions. Start by removing the drip pans and the base of the cooktop. Be sure to clean the cooktop base and gas tubes thoroughly before reinstalling them. Use a mild dish soap and water solution to remove any dirt, dust, or food residue. This will make it easier to clean the surface of the glass cooktop.
Test The Cooktop
Whether you’re trying to replace the glass top on your range yourself or have it installed by an appliance repair service, you should test your cooktop to make sure everything is working properly. Several problems can cause your electric cooktop to not work correctly. These include issues with the coils, heating element or switch. Usually, a faulty coil or heating element is a simple fix; however, if you’re having trouble with the switch, it may require professional attention. Using an appliance repair technician can ensure that your unit is fixed right the first time and avoid costly repairs down the road.