If your electric oven suddenly won’t heat, you’re probably wondering where to start. The good news is most problems have a clear cause and can be fixed without a full service call. Below you’ll find the most common faults and easy fixes you can try before you pick up the phone.
First, check that the oven is actually getting power. Look at the plug, the socket, and the circuit breaker. A tripped breaker or a blown fuse is the simplest fix – just reset the breaker or replace the fuse and see if the oven lights up.
The heating element is the next likely culprit. Over time the element can crack or burn out, especially if you’ve used the broiler a lot. When you turn the oven on, you should see a faint red glow on the element. If it stays cold, it’s probably bad and needs replacing.
Thermostat or temperature sensor problems also stop the oven from heating. The sensor tells the control board when the oven has reached the set temperature. If the sensor is faulty, the oven thinks it’s already at the right heat and shuts off the element. You can test the sensor with a multimeter – it should read around 1,100 Ω at room temperature. Anything far off means replacement.
Don’t overlook the door latch. Modern ovens won’t run if the door isn’t sealed properly. A broken latch or a misaligned door can keep the oven from turning on. Open and close the door a few times, listen for a click, and make sure the seal is snug.
Start with a safety check: unplug the oven or switch off the dedicated circuit. Wait a minute before you begin any work – this protects you from a surprise shock.
If the element looks damaged, order a replacement that matches the model number (you’ll find it on the oven’s nameplate). Unscrew the old element, disconnect the wiring, and bolt the new one in place. It’s a quick swap that often solves heating issues.
For a bad sensor, locate it – usually a thin metal rod near the back wall. Disconnect the wire, remove the old sensor, and slot the new one into the same hole. Reconnect the wire and test the oven.
When the door latch is the problem, you may only need to realign it. Loosen the hinge screws just enough to move the door, close it firmly, and retighten. If the latch itself is broken, replace the latch kit – it’s an inexpensive part.
Finally, give the control board a quick reset. Turn off the power for a couple of minutes, then turn it back on. Many modern ovens will clear minor glitches this way.
If any of these steps feel beyond your comfort level, or if the oven still won’t heat after you’ve checked the basics, it’s time to call a professional. A trained technician can diagnose hidden issues like wiring faults or faulty control boards safely and efficiently.
Remember, regular maintenance helps avoid big problems. Keep the oven clean, avoid spills that can damage the element, and run a quick self‑check every few months. A little care now saves you time and money later.
Got an electric oven that’s acting up? Try these quick checks and fixes first. You might be back to baking in no time without a costly service call.
Knowing whether your electric oven is broken can save you time and prevent frustration during meal preparations. From uneven cooking to malfunctioning controls, identifying the issue is the first step in resolving it. This guide provides insights into common symptoms of oven problems and offers practical tips for diagnosing and fixing them. Learn about when it might be best to call a professional for help.