Answer: I'm assuming you have a VOM. If you don't, get one. Doesn't have to be an expensive one. If you can get at the connections where the wires connect to the element, do a continuity test of the element. Power off and disconnect the leads from the element when do you the test. Should be very close to zero ohms. Hook everything back up and turn on the power. Is there any power going to the element when heat is called for? Check for voltage directly at the element. If there is none there, go to the controller circuit board and check for power where the leads connect at the terminals. If you have power at the terminals but not at the element, you have an open circuit in one of the leads. Disconnect each one seperately at each end and check for continuity. Bypass the controller board by hooking up an extension cable directly to the element (after disconnecting the leads from the control board). Any heat? If there is none, double check with the meter to be certain that you actually have power there. If you have power but no heat, your element is smoked. Check for the simple things, like loose or corroded conections. Check for continuity of each individual wire.