Range Won't Turn Off: Common Causes and How to Fix It

If your range won't turn off, the problem could be caused by a stuck control, welded relay, a faulty surface element switch, or a failed electronic control board. Before replacing any parts, inspect the most common causes listed below.

Safety Notice: Always disconnect power to the range at the circuit breaker before servicing it. If a surface element or oven continues heating uncontrollably, discontinue use immediately until the problem has been repaired.

Possible Causes

  1. Faulty surface element switch
  2. Stuck control knob
  3. Welded relay on the electronic control board
  4. Faulty electronic control board
  5. Defective oven temperature sensor
  6. Stuck keypad or touch control
  7. Shorted wiring
  8. Failed infinite switch

1. Faulty Surface Element Switch

Most Common Solution

On electric ranges, a faulty surface element (infinite) switch can become stuck in the ON position, causing the burner to continue heating even after the knob is turned off.

What to do:

  • Disconnect power to the range.
  • Turn the control knob through all positions.
  • Test the surface element switch for continuity if necessary.
  • Replace the switch if it remains closed when turned off.

2. Stuck Control Knob

A damaged or binding control knob may not fully rotate the switch to the OFF position.

What to do:

  • Remove the control knob.
  • Inspect it for cracks or damage.
  • Clean the control shaft if needed.
  • Replace the knob if it no longer operates properly.

3. Welded Relay on the Electronic Control Board

A relay on the control board can weld closed, continuously supplying power to the heating element.

What to do:

  • Disconnect power immediately.
  • Inspect the control board for signs of overheating or burned components.
  • Replace the control board if a relay has failed.

4. Electronic Control Board

A failed electronic control board may continue sending power to the oven or heating elements even when the controls are turned off.

What to do:

  • Check for error codes.
  • Inspect the board for visible damage.
  • Replace the electronic control board if it is defective.

5. Oven Temperature Sensor

A faulty temperature sensor can send incorrect temperature readings, causing the control system to operate the heating elements improperly.

What to do:

  • Test the sensor's resistance with a multimeter.
  • Compare the reading to the manufacturer's specifications.
  • Replace the sensor if it is out of range.

6. Keypad or Touch Control

A stuck keypad button or failed touch control can continuously send an ON command to the control board.

What to do:

  • Inspect the keypad for stuck buttons.
  • Clean around the touch panel.
  • Replace the keypad or user interface if it is unresponsive.

7. Wiring

Shorted or damaged wiring can continuously supply power to heating components.

What to do:

  • Disconnect power.
  • Inspect accessible wiring for signs of heat damage or melted insulation.
  • Repair or replace damaged wiring before restoring power.

8. Infinite Switch

An infinite switch regulates power to electric surface elements. If its internal contacts weld together, the burner may remain on continuously.

What to do:

  • Disconnect power.
  • Test the infinite switch for proper operation.
  • Replace the switch if it does not open when turned off.

Need Help Finding the Correct Part?

If you need help identifying the correct replacement part, send us your complete range model number and a clear photo of the appliance identification label before placing your order. Our team will verify compatibility and help ensure you receive the correct replacement part the first time.