Need Help repairing an Electronic Composter

[fieldsweeper]

Hi all, I need some help with what is probably a simple fix. I received a composter second hand and when initiated all components work. Panel and touch screen work, motors work, fan work, the only part that does not work is the heating element. Attached are some images of the heating element and pcb connection, any help would be appreciated.

 

[Diver300]

What is the resistance between the two heater wires, the ones with the white woven sleeving?

 

[fieldsweeper]

What is the resistance between the two heater wires, the ones with the white woven sleeving?

Here is an image attached with the multimeter reading at 0. I am a complete beginner so please help me if there is something I am doing incorrectly.

 

[Diver300]

That is reading infinity, not zero.

If the meter is directly across the heating element and it reads the same as when not connected to anything (and the meter shows something else when it's leads are joined together) then the element has failed.

 

[fieldsweeper]

That is reading infinity, not zero.

If the meter is directly across the heating element and it reads the same as when not connected to anything (and the meter shows something else when it's leads are joined together) then the element has failed.

Yes, the element has definitely failed. I'm wondering (since the rest of the components are working) how I can repair the problem.

 

[Diver300]

Just change the element. It looks like one from a domestic oven.

 

[fieldsweeper]

Just change the element. It looks like one from a domestic oven.

Ok, thanks. I just wasn't sure if I only needed to change the wires or if something was wrong with the board connection. I'll look for a new element.

 

[Diver300]

Ok, thanks. I just wasn't sure if I only needed to change the wires or if something was wrong with the board connection. I'll look for a new element.

Testing where you did means that the wires can't be ruled out, so it might be worth looking at where the wires join the element, but it's likely to be the element. They fail quite often.

 

[Tony Stewart]

Recheck Ohms or Diode test directly across circular heater terminals
Diode test will beep when voltage drop is < 2V with ~1mA . Test probes this way, then heater, if OK , trace backwards. Even a relay solder lead can be open. (black annular ring)

 

[fieldsweeper]

Recheck Ohms or Diode test directly across circular heater terminals
Diode test will beep when voltage drop is < 2V with ~1mA . Test probes this way, then heater, if OK , trace backwards. Even a relay solder lead can be open. (black annular ring)

Same for both tests, you can see clearly in this picture where the element failed (along with the burns on the bottom of bucket). Was hoping I could just replace the wires but I guess not. I don't have a clue where to find a replacement since it's so small only 2.5 in diameter 120v 500w.

 

[fieldsweeper]

Testing where you did means that the wires can't be ruled out, so it might be worth looking at where the wires join the element, but it's likely to be the element. They fail quite often.

Last question, when I go to replace the element will I also need to resolder new wires to the pcb or should the wires still be alright?

 

[Nigel Goodwin]

The wires should be fine.