The infinite switch is the most common cause — fast shipping across Canada and the USA
An electric range burner that won't heat, heats only on one setting, won't turn off, or cycles erratically almost always points to a failed infinite switch. The infinite switch is the control behind the knob that regulates power to the surface heating element — and it's one of the most common range repairs on Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, and Jenn-Air electric ranges. This guide walks you through every likely cause, how to confirm it, and the exact part you need.
Unlike a simple on/off switch, an infinite switch varies the electrical resistance as the knob is rotated, modulating the power delivered to the surface heating element continuously from low to high. Inside the switch, a bimetallic strip heats and cools in response to the current passing through it, cycling the element on and off at a rate that produces the desired average heat output. When the switch fails, this modulation breaks down — the element either gets no power, full power, or erratic power.
The internal contacts inside the infinite switch arc every time the element cycles on and off. Over years of use, this arcing pits and erodes the contact surfaces until they can no longer make reliable electrical contact. The result is a burner that won't heat, heats intermittently, or produces a burning smell from the switch itself.
How to confirm: Disconnect power. Remove the switch and test continuity across the terminals with a multimeter at various knob positions. Inconsistent or no continuity at positions where the element should be on indicates failed contacts.
✓ Shop W10857622 Whirlpool Range Surface Element SwitchWhen the bimetallic strip inside the switch fails in the closed position, the element receives full power regardless of the knob setting. This is a safety hazard — the burner won't turn off even when the knob is at the off position. Replace the switch immediately if this occurs.
How to confirm: If the burner stays on after turning the knob to off, the switch has failed in the closed position. Disconnect power at the breaker immediately.
✓ Shop W10857622 Whirlpool Range Surface Element SwitchA partially failed switch may still allow the burner to heat but with inconsistent output — the element cycles on and off too rapidly, produces uneven heat, or only works at certain knob positions. This is the early stage of contact failure before the switch fails completely.
How to confirm: Observe the burner at a medium setting. Normal cycling is slow and steady. Rapid, erratic cycling or visible sparking at the switch indicates the switch is failing.
✓ Shop W10857622 Whirlpool Range Surface Element SwitchIf the knob spins freely without engaging the switch shaft, or the shaft itself is broken, the switch can't be adjusted. In some cases the knob is the only failed component — test by removing the knob and turning the shaft directly with pliers to see if the burner responds.
How to confirm: Remove the knob and inspect the D-shaped shaft. If the shaft turns freely and the burner responds, only the knob needs replacement. If the shaft is broken or the burner doesn't respond, the switch needs replacement.
✓ Shop W10857622 Whirlpool Range Surface Element SwitchAlways disconnect power at the circuit breaker before working on range switches. The W10857622 operates at 240V — working on live 240V circuits is extremely dangerous. If you're not comfortable working with high-voltage electrical components, hire a qualified appliance technician.
1. Disconnect power at the circuit breaker. 2. Remove the control knob by pulling straight out. 3. Remove the back panel or control panel screws to access the switch. 4. Photograph the wiring connections before disconnecting. 5. Disconnect the wiring terminals from the old switch. 6. Remove the mounting screws and pull the switch out. 7. Install the new switch, reconnect terminals (match your photo), and reassemble. 8. Restore power and test at all heat settings.
How do I know if it's the switch or the heating element? If the burner is completely cold and shows no glow at all, test the element first — a broken element coil is also common. If the element tests good (continuity across the terminals) but the burner still won't heat, the switch is the cause. Contact us for help diagnosing.
Does the W10857622 control one burner or two? The W10857622 is a dual infinite switch assembly — it controls two surface elements independently on a single panel.
Is this a DIY repair? Moderate difficulty — requires working with 240V wiring. Mechanically experienced homeowners comfortable with electrical work can complete it. Always disconnect power first. Contact us if you need guidance.
What brands does the W10857622 fit? It fits Whirlpool, Maytag, KitchenAid, and Jenn-Air electric ranges and cooktops. See the full model list on the product page.
