How to Replace an Electric Cooktop | Video

A sleek new countertop stove is a quick DIY upgrade that can instantly boost the look and feel of any kitchen. How much you spend on this intermediate-level project depends on the type of cooktop you purchase. Whatever you decide, you’ll need just two to four hours and some basic supplies.

TOOLS & MATERIALS

• Work Light
• Tape Measure
• Drill/Driver & Bits
• Phillips Screwdriver
• Flathead Screwdriver
• Putty Knives
• Shims
• New Countertop Stove
• 4×4 Metal Junction Box

 

When taking on this DIY task, be sure to equip yourself with the proper safety gear.

 

STEP ONE

Turn off the power. Locate the circuit breaker for the cooktop at your electrical panel. Turn off the power, then turn on each burner to confirm it’s off. Each should be cool to the touch.

STEP TWO

Disconnect the wiring. Cooktop wiring typically runs through flexible conduit called a whip, connected to an electrical box. Open the box and disconnect the wires by twisting off the connectors counterclockwise. Older installations may require a slot screwdriver to open the plate on the box.

STEP THREE

Detach any brackets. The cooktop will be held in place with clamping brackets. Look for them under the counter. Most have a long screw against the underside of the counter, and a small screw that attaches the bracket to the cooktop. Remove any brackets you find, and set them aside.

STEP FOUR

Gently pry up the cooktop. Even if your countertop stove isn’t held in place with an adhesive, accumulated grime and grease may hold it in place. Pry up the cooktop with a putty knife, using shims or strips of cardboard as a cushion. Enlist an assistant to help lift it out, flexible conduit whip and all.

STEP FIVE

Measure the base of your new countertop stove. Compare the measurements of your new stove and your countertop’s opening before attempting to install the unit. While most cooktops are a standard 22 inches deep and 30 to 36 inches wide, you may have to slightly enlarge the opening.

STEP SIX

Attach the clamping brackets. Thoroughly clean your counter. If a foam gasket is provided with your stovetop, place it along the underside of the edge. Install the brackets to the bottom of the countertop stove before you set it in place. Push each bracket out of the way before you drop in the cooktop. If you don’t already have one in place, install a standard wall mount metal junction box for your wires.

STEP SEVEN

Install the new countertop stove. With the aid of a helper, carefully set the new cooktop into the counter, guiding the preinstalled whip into the opening.

STEP EIGHT

Connect the wiring. Connect the wires with a whip to the wires in the electrical box per manufacturer instructions. To connect each pair of wires, hold the bare copper ends side by side and twist the wire nut on clockwise. Give each wire nut a tug to make sure it’s secure.

STEP NINE

Tighten clamping brackets. From underneath the cooktop, swing out the clamping brackets and tighten the small attachment screw. Insert the clamping screw and screw clockwise until it firmly hits the underside of the counter. Be careful not to overtighten. Too much pressure can crack stone or solid surface countertops.

STEP TEN

Restore power. Turn on the breaker for the circuit and test your new cooktop.

 

Your installation is complete!

 

Looking for great tools to help get your project done?  Shop Stanley, Black & Decker and DeWALT for everything you need!