Range infinite switch.

[scoticus]

We've got a range that has an element that only is off or full on. A little but of research shows it's almost definitely the infinite switch. The cheapest I can find a replacement is around $250 . The range is 8 years old, and it's not really worth spending that to fix, so I was wondering if there's any way to repair the switch itself. From what I understand,it's a bi-metal switch that turns on and off based on where the dial is set, so doesn't seem like it's too complicated.

Just wondering if anyone knows what causes this switch to fail in this particular way, and if it's possible to repair? I've got a good amount of experience with DC electronics, but very little with AC, ouside of pliers in the socket when I was younger.

[eccerr0r]

Re: Range infinite switch.

An infinite switch seems to be a self heating regulating switch?

I thought most stovetop ranges are cheap triac phase controlled dimmer switches that use the nichrome in the heating elements to self-regulate temperature (i.e. very poorly) unlike what's used in ovens which use true temperature sensing. What manufacturer and model are you working on?

Seems that 100% on and 100% off are the two usual methods of failure. Looking at how these things are constructed, not sure if these can really be fixed if it's not a simple cleaning of the contacts (for 100% off) but opening them without destroying the switch casing is another issue.

I have a hard time believing $250 for the switch, unless it's an uncommon part... probably can shoehorn another model or brand of switch if needed, else probably time to buy another stove?

[R_J]

Re: Range infinite switch.

Also post a picture of the switch and a picture of the side with the numbers might help. I see them listed for as low as $28.00, Have you checked with a appliance repair shop, you might find a good used one cheap.
It could be the switch L2 - H2 contacts are shorted
http://www.the-appliance-clinic.com/...nt_switch.html

[scoticus]

Re: Range infinite switch.

Geez, that would be incredibly helpful wouldn't it? Sorry LOL. The brand is a Maytag YMER8875WS, and the switch in particular is the WPW10169580. We're at that really annoying phase where we have to cook Christmas dinner, were planning on buying a new stove anyway, but can't afford it until early next year.

Edit as I just noticed the new response: I haven't actually taken the stove apart yet because it still kinda works, just when we turn it on, it only operates full on, and subsequently tends to burn, but still cook, everything. Most of these switches are in that range. The problem with this one is that the one switch operates three burners. There's the center one, and then two more rings of burners around it, all controlled by the one switch, making it more specialty, and, of course, more outrageously expensive.

[R_J]

Re: Range infinite switch.

I see, its a triple element switch.

[budm]

Re: Range infinite switch.

https://www.appliancepartspros.com/w...ap6016164.html
https://www.lunaparts.com/products/g...-infinite.html

[stj]

Re: Range infinite switch.

invensys??

so is it a triac based "dimmer" circuit in a box?

[eccerr0r]

Re: Range infinite switch.

It's probably one of those thermomechanical timed duty cycle breakers... If I had to fix one of these I'd probably throw it out and end up designing my own triac based version, though getting zero crossing right would be a priority if I can't get enough filtering...