Fixing Ovens: Simple Steps to Get Your Kitchen Back on Track
If your oven has stopped heating, is making strange noises, or just isn’t doing what it’s supposed to, you’re not alone. Most homeowners face at least one oven issue a year, and many of them can be sorted without a huge bill. Below you’ll find the most common problems, easy DIY fixes, and clear signs that it’s time to call a professional.
Common Oven Problems and How to Fix Them
1. Oven Won’t Heat – First, check the power supply. Is the plug firmly in the socket? Is the circuit breaker tripped? If power is fine, look at the heating element. Turn the oven on and watch for a red glow. No glow usually means a broken element that you can replace for about £20‑£30 at a local store. Make sure the oven is unplugged before you remove the element.
2. Uneven or Hot Spots – This often points to a faulty thermostat or temperature sensor. Use an oven thermometer to see if the temperature matches the setting. If it’s off by more than 25°C, the sensor may need swapping. It’s a quick screwdriver job and the part costs under £15.
3. Door Won’t Close Properly – Look for debris or broken hinges. A misaligned door seal can cause heat loss and longer cooking times. Clean the seal with warm soapy water and check the hinges for loose screws. Tighten or replace them as needed.
4. Strange Smells or Smoke – Residue from food spills can burn and create odors. Remove the oven racks, wipe the interior with a mixture of baking soda and water, and run a short 200°C cycle to clear out leftovers. If the smell persists, the heating element might be coated in grime and needs cleaning or replacement.
5. Timer or Clock Won’t Work – Often a simple electronics glitch. Reset the oven by turning it off at the breaker for a minute, then turn it back on. If the clock still won’t set, the control board may be at fault, which usually requires a pro to replace.
When to Call a Pro
DIY fixes work for most basic faults, but there are times when you should hand the job over. If you notice any of these, give South Shields Appliance Repair Services a call:
- Repeated heating failures even after replacing the element.
- Electrical smells, sparks, or any sign of a short circuit.
- Gas ovens that won’t ignite or have a weak flame – gas work needs a certified engineer.
- Control panels that are unresponsive or display error codes.
- You’re not comfortable working with electricity or gas.
Our technicians are Gas Safe certified and can get your oven back to full speed in no time. We offer same‑day service across South Shields, competitive pricing, and a satisfaction guarantee.
Regular maintenance can prevent most of these headaches. Clean the interior after each use, check the door seal monthly, and schedule a professional check‑up once a year. A little care now saves you a costly repair later.
Ready to tackle that stubborn oven problem? Start with the easy checks above, and if you hit a wall, we’re just a phone call away. South Shields Appliance Repair Services – your go‑to for fast, reliable oven fixes.