How to Replace Whirlpool Range Drip Pans

Whirlpool coil-tops take standard two-6-inch and two-8-inch pans, and FlexHeat dual-element models use the same 8-inch pan with the dual ring nested inside. A trim ring often sits on top of the pan around the element opening. Keep a Torx T20 driver handy only if you also need to reach the receptacle block beneath a pan.

Before You Start#

• Tools: none for the pan and element swap; a Torx T20 driver (Whirlpool's main fastener) if you also service the receptacle block underneath.
• Parts: a matching drip-pan set and trim rings — chrome to match the factory look, or porcelain-coated for better stain resistance. Verify the set against your model number on the rating plate.
• Time and level: 30-60 minutes depending on how much you clean, easy.
• Safety: let the elements cool fully first. For a plain pan swap you can leave power on since the coils unplug by hand, but cut the 240V breaker if you are going into the receptacle block below.

Swapping Pans and Trim Rings#

1. Lift each coil element at the outer end and pull it straight out of its terminal block.
2. Lift the trim ring, then the drip pan, straight up out of the cooktop recess — neither is clipped or screwed down.
3. Wipe out the spilled food and grease that collects under the pans, using a plastic scraper on hardened spots.
4. Check the receptacle block in each well for blackened contacts or melted plastic; replace a damaged block (a Torx T20 reaches it) before fitting a new element.
5. Drop the new pan in — 6-inch in the small wells, 8-inch in the large, opening toward the rear block — and set the trim ring on top.
6. Plug the element back in until its base sits flush, rest the coil level in the pan, and turn the burner to HIGH to confirm an even orange glow.

Choosing Pans and Rings#

• Chrome vs porcelain: Whirlpool ships chrome-plated steel; aftermarket options add black porcelain, which hides stains better, and disposable aluminum liners.
• FlexHeat models: the dual radiant ring sits inside the standard 8-inch pan opening, so no special pan is needed.
• Clean or replace: light discolouration scrubs off with a baking-soda paste, but chrome burned through to the steel is cheaper to replace than to restore.

Before the Holiday Season#

A cooktop with clean, level pans and fresh trim rings is ready for a busy holiday of pots and spills — and the swap is minutes of work. Call a pro if a receptacle block under a pan is badly burned, an element will not turn off, or you see sparking from beneath the cooktop. Book a same-day EasyBear visit and the diagnostic is free.