Kenmore Range 911.4658711 Replacement Bake Element

[lilbb]

We replaced the bake element (WB44K5012) about 8.5 years ago with what was advertised as an OEM GE part. That replacement has just recently died and it needs replacing again. The GE part is now $35 more at around $55, plus $11.50 shipping for about $66.50 total. I found an aftermarket part that appears to be made by WEN for around $28, no shipping charge as I can get it shipped to a local store for free. Considering the GE element died after only 8.5 years (original by Roper lasted 28 years), is there any point in spending all that money on another GE part? Would there be any issues with using the aftermarket part? I generally try to use OEM, but if it's only going to last 8.5 years with not that much use, I don't know that it's worth it. The original element got heavy usage.

[evaappliance]

In my experience Oven elements is one of the things that the aftermarket is as good or better than oem , just don’t expect either to last over 3 or so years,    Higher prices, lower quality .   

[evaappliance]

On 4/17/2024 at 11:38 PM, lilbb said:

only 8.5 years

lol !  That is like a miracle nowdays