Ovens are some of the most trusted and used appliances in the winter, providing an easy meal solution, yummy treats, and heating your home at the same time. So, a malfunctioning oven can be a real stone in your shoe, especially when it refuses to heat properly. Whether you’re an avid home cook or someone who relies on their oven for daily meals, this guide will take you from no heat to baking in a few steps!
Always be careful with oven and appliance repairs
Before you begin troubleshooting, always ensure your safety by following a few safety measures:
- Disconnect the oven from the power source to avoid any electrical accidents.
- Wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and safety glasses, while working on your oven.
- If possible have someone with you in case you need assistance.
Solution #1 Check the Power Source:
It might sound obvious, but sometimes the issue lies with the power supply. Ensure that the oven is properly plugged in, and there are no issues with the circuit breaker or fuses.
A tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse could be the culprit.
Solution #2 Thermal Fuse Inspection
The thermal fuse is a safety feature that cuts off power to the oven if it overheats. It’s a great feature to have for your safety but if it’s blown, your oven won’t heat because it will read as if it’s already hot.
You can easily tackle this one start by reading your user’s manual, learn how to locate and test the thermal fuse, and replace it if necessary.
Solution #3 Element Assessment
Electric ovens rely on heating elements to generate heat. Check the bake and broil elements for visible damage or signs of wear.
Learn how to test these elements safely using a multimeter and replace them if faulty.
Solution #4 Gas Oven Igniter Inspection
For gas ovens, a malfunctioning igniter can be the reason behind the lack of heat. Understand how to locate and test the igniter, and replace it if needed, this is a common issue in gas ovens.
Solution #5 Oven Sensor Examination
The oven sensor plays a crucial role in regulating the temperature. Learn how to test the sensor’s resistance and replace it if it’s not functioning properly.
Solution #6 Control Board Check
The control board is the brain of your oven and it’s in charge of heating among other functions. If it malfunctions, it can disrupt the heating process.
Check your oven manual to see where your control board is, how it can be checked for visible damage, and if it’s possible to test its functionality.
Solution #7 Thermostat Testing
The thermostat is responsible for maintaining the oven’s temperature. Learn how to check if the thermostat is working correctly and replace it if necessary.
Solution #8 Calibration Adjustment
Ovens have a calibration feature that allows you to adjust the temperature settings an imbalance in this can cause your oven to not heat up properly.
In your owner’s manual, you can find how to calibrate your oven to ensure accurate temperature readings.
No luck, time to call the experts
If all else fails, it might be time to seek trusted professional assistance for oven repairs. Learn when to call a professional technician and what to expect during a service visit.
This comprehensive guide covers most of the common causes and fixes for an oven that won’t heat. So, you’ll be well-equipped to diagnose and fix the issues causing your oven to refuse to heat.
Remember to always work safely and take your time during the troubleshooting process. With a bit of patience and the right knowledge, you can save both time and money by resolving to fix your oven yourself. Happy baking!
