Hi all, I need some help with what is probably a simple fix. I received a composter second hand and when initiated all components work. Panel and touch screen work, motors work, fan work, the only part that does not work is the heating element. Attached are some images of the heating element and pcb connection, any help would be appreciated.

 

Electronic composter? Seems a bit ironic.
Check to make sure the relay is working.

 

Electronic composter? Seems a bit ironic.
Check to make sure the relay is working.

Lol, yea we're using it to supplement indoor plants instead of bringing in bugs from outdoor compost. I'm a complete beginner so if you could bear with me, how do I test the relay?

 

Well, on second thought Im not a good teacher and its high voltage stuff so Im not comfortable trying to walk a beginner through testing things where it needs power sorry.

For something easier (and safer),
Unplug the device and then disconnected the heater element wires from the board. Using a multimeter set to resistance, place a probe on each wire and see what if it reads anything.

 

The multimeter is giving the same reading on wires and terminals. I figured out earlier today that the heating element is fried. Now I am having quite a hard time finding a suitable replacement. The machine is rated for 500w but the only replacement I have on hand is a 1000W portable range top. Would it be a problem to use a 1000W element on a machine that is rated for 500W or will it just produce less heat?