how do i tell if the thermostat or element has stopped working?

First check the element visually for any signs of damage i.e. cracks, splits, holes or any unusual twiting or bulging. If you find any replace it & see if it heats up. If it looks ok then you really need a multimeter to test it. If you have one, put it on ohms range, remove one of the wires from the element & put the two probes from the test meter on either end of the element. You should get a reading. Maybe around 30 - 40 ohms but it depends on the particular element. It may be more or may be less, it doesn't really matter. The important thing is that you get a reading. No reading or an extremely high reading means the element is no good.

Roger
May 2009