The heating elements used in Steffes ETS heating equipment are a special low watt density, high temperature design to help ensure a long life. Place the heater in a charge mode and measure amperage on each element to verify whether or not the system is charging properly.
To test elements for possible failure, check the resistance of the heating elements from sheath (system ground) to the line side of each element. This value should be greater than 5K ohm. Resistance across the element (line to line) can also be checked. To determine the proper resistance for the element(s) being tested, refer to the Element Resistance Chart .
Generally, element failure will only be seen in a condition where the heating system has been operating in an over-temperature condition for a long period of time. If failure occurs, it is important to find and repair the root cause of the overheating.
In order to know whether or not the elements failed due to an over-temperature situation, check the appearance of the element(s). A rough (oxidized) sheath on the element would identify failure due to this condition.
NOTE: If element failure due to overheating occurs, Steffes recommends replacing ALL of the elements in the heating system.