Check the resistance between the top and bottom terminals.

The multimeter should read about 40 Ω.

Check resistance from the middle terminal to the heater housing.

The multimeter should read OL or "—"

If the element has the correct values when tested, you can stop here. You don't have to replace the heating element. As a precaution, while everything is accessible, you may want to test the components located on the heater housing.

For the hi limit thermostat/inlet thermistor combined component follow this link

For the thermal cutoff switch follow this link.