Oven Not Heating?
A well-functioning electric oven is essential for creating delicious meals in your home. However, like any appliance, electric ovens can sometimes experience issues that affect their performance. In this article, we’ll discuss common electric oven problems, their potential causes, and provide solutions to help you troubleshoot and fix these issues.
Remember that working with electricity can be dangerous, so disconnect the power by flipping the breaker or unplugging the unit. If you’re not comfortable performing these repairs, it’s best to consult with a professional appliance technician. If you’re in the Huntington, WV area, call us at (304)807-9057 or schedule a diagnostic here.
Oven Not Heating Up
One common problem is your oven not heating up at all. This can be due to a few different causes:
Faulty Heating Element
Testing: To test the heating element, first disconnect power to the oven. Remove the element by unscrewing or unclipping it from the oven cavity. Use a multimeter to check the element for continuity. If there’s no continuity, the element is faulty and needs replacement.
Replacing: Purchase a compatible heating element for your oven model. Install the new element by connecting it to the oven cavity, securing it with screws or clips, and restoring power to the oven.
Inaccurate Temperature Probe
Testing: Disconnect power to the oven. Locate the temperature probe, usually found inside the oven cavity. Use a multimeter to test the probe for its resistance value, which should change with temperature. Check the service manual for the correct ohm readings at specific temperatures. If the ohm reading is significantly different from what the service manual states, it’s a good idea to replace the probe.
Replacing: Purchase a compatible temperature probe for your oven model. Remove the old probe by disconnecting the wires and unscrewing it from the oven cavity. Install the new probe, reconnect the wires, and restore power to the oven.
Control Board or Wiring Issues
Inspection: If the heating element and temperature probe both test good, there might be an issue with the wiring or control board. Disconnect power to the oven and inspect the control board for any burnt components, black marks, or damaged wiring. You can also check the power cord going to the oven, as sometimes the connection can become damaged, allowing the oven to only get 110V instead of 220V, which will cause most components to work except for the bake and broil elements.
Repair: If you find any damaged components or wiring, replace them as needed. In some cases, you may need to replace the entire control board. Make sure to purchase compatible parts for your oven model, and restore power to the oven once repairs are complete.
If your oven is not heating properly, it’s crucial to identify and address the underlying issue to ensure optimal performance and safety. By following this guide and testing various components such as the heating elements, temperature probe and control board, you can pinpoint the problem and take the necessary steps to resolve it.
Remember, working with electrical appliances can be dangerous, so if you’re unsure or uncomfortable with any of the troubleshooting or repair steps, it’s always best to consult a professional appliance repair technician. With the right knowledge and maintenance, your oven will be back to operating efficiently and providing delicious, evenly cooked meals for you and your family.
Leon is a skilled appliance repair technician serving the Huntington, WV and Ashland, KY areas. With years of hands-on experience and a passion for fixing things, Leon is dedicated to helping homeowners breathe new life into their appliances.