An electric oven is a staple in every kitchen, and when something you rely on every day breaks down, it can be really frustrating. What’s even more annoying is not knowing why it broke down, especially since it’s not as simple as gas ovens. So, let’s dive into what to do when this happens.
Why Is My Electic Oven Not Heating Up?
Here are some reasons why your electric oven might not be heating up:
1) The Oven Temperature Sensor Is Broken or Faulty
The temperature sensor, thermostat, or selector switch is what controls how hot the oven will be. If it’s not working right, your oven won’t heat up correctly. This can happen due to buildup from grease or food particles over time.
To solve this issue, you can clean the sensor gently with a damp cloth. If that doesn’t help, you might need to replace it. Most of them are located in the back of the oven, near the top. They are usually a thin metal rod or probes that sticks out from the back oven walls. If you can’t find it, check your oven manufacturer manual for a detailed diagram.
2) The Oven Elements Are Broken
Your oven has two heating elements: one at the top for broiling and one at the bottom for baking. To check if they’re working, you can turn on the oven and look for a red glow. If one of the elements isn’t glowing, it’s likely broken and needs to be replaced.
Replacing a broken oven heating element is usually simple. You can find replacements online or at an appliance store. Switch the power off, unscrew the faulty element, and replace it with the new one. Your oven’s manual will have specific instructions on how to do this.
3) The Circuit Breaker Is Tripped
Your oven uses a lot of electricity, and if there’s a surge or an overload, the circuit breaker can trip to protect your home from electrical issues. If your oven suddenly stops working, go to your electrical panel and see if the breaker for the oven has flipped to the “off” position. If it has, switch it back to “on.”
If the circuit breaker keeps tripping, it could indicate a more serious electrical issue, either with the oven or your home’s wiring. In this case, it’s a good idea to call an electrician to check things out.
4) The Igniter Is Defective
The igniter is responsible for lighting the gas so that your oven can heat up. If you have an inkling that it’s not working, turn on your oven and look to see if it glows. If it does glow but the oven doesn’t heat up, the igniter is likely the problem.
You can find a replacement igniter online. Before you replace it, make sure to turn off the power to your oven and, if it’s a gas oven, turn off the gas supply as well. Remove the screws holding the igniter in place, disconnect the wires, and attach the new igniter.
5) You Have a Broken Door Switch
If you notice that your oven light stays on, the door switch could be the problem. To check this, open and close the oven door while paying attention to whether the light turns on and off. If the light doesn’t respond, the switch might need to be replaced.
6) The Gas Line Is Defective
A kinked, clogged, or damaged gas line can prevent the oven from getting the fuel it needs to operate. Before doing anything, make sure the gas valve is fully open. Sometimes, the valve can be accidentally turned off or not fully opened. If the valve is open and the oven still isn’t working, you might need to inspect the gas line itself. Look for any visible signs of damage, like cracks or kinks. If you suspect a gas line issue, it’s best to call a technician.
Do Electric Ovens Need Ongoing Maintainance?
Yes, they do. Make sure that you clean the interior regularly, especially the heating elements. Also, make sure to check the oven door seal periodically to make sure it’s intact, and keep an eye on the oven’s temperature sensor and the condition of the electrical connections. Over time, these parts can wear out.
When Do You Need to Call a Professional?
If you’ve tried checking the basics, like the sensor, heating elements, or door switch, and the oven still isn’t working, it’s time to get expert help. Also, if you suspect a gas line problem or if your circuit breaker keeps tripping when you use the oven, these are signs that something more serious could be wrong. Attempting to fix these issues yourself could be risky.
Note: If your oven is still under warranty, attempting repairs yourself might void the warranty. Check your warranty terms, and if in doubt, call an authorized service provider.
Summary
In summary, when your electric oven’s ability to heat is lost, it could be due to a faulty sensor, broken heating elements, a tripped circuit breaker, a defective igniter, a broken door switch, or a problem with the gas line. Whether you use gas or electric oven, make sure to regularly maintain your oven to prevent any issues.
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