How to Check the Power Cord

The power cord of an electric range is a 240V, heavy gauge wire with either 3 or 4 prongs on the plug. If the wire has been damaged, visible or not, the oven may still work or may not work at all. The power cord connects to a terminal block inside the appliance. If this connection is loose or corroded it can also interfere with proper operation of the range.

Caution: Please read our safety information before attempting any testing or repairs.

Before testing the power cord, unplug the appliance or shut off the power at the fuse box or breaker panel to avoid an electrical shock hazard. When disconnecting wires, it is often useful to take one or more close-up photos to guide you later in the proper reconnection of the wires.

This test is to check the oven power cord for damage and for proper connection to the terminal block. A thorough test requires the use of a multimeter.

1. Start by by unplugging the appliance.

2. Remove the back panel of the range, or if present the access hatch near the power cord. It may be fastened with several small screws.

3. Inspect the connection of each wire to the terminal block. If rust or corrosion is apparent, the connectors should be cleaned and reconnected. Note the position of each wire before disconnecting them.

4. Make certain that each wire is secure and the screw terminal is tightened down to make a solid connection.

5. If the connections to the terminal block appear to be good, then testing the power cord for continuity is the next step.

6. Note the location of each wire from the power cord and where it connects to the terminal.

7. Disconnect the power cord from the terminal block.

8. Set your multimeter to ohms setting x1. Place one probe on one of the wires and touch the second probe to each of the prongs on the plug until one registers continuity (at or near zero ohms of resistance).

9. Repeat the process for each wire.

10. If any of the wires do not have continuity or show resistance exceeding a couple ohms, the power cord should be replaced.

11. Reconnect the power cord to the terminal block and secure each connection.

12. Plug in the range, turn on the power and test the range for proper operation.