Oven Problems: What’s Wrong and How to Fix It

If your oven won’t heat, clicks on the timer but stays cold, or you notice strange smells, you’re not alone. Oven faults are one of the most common kitchen headaches, and most of them have a clear cause. In this guide we’ll walk through the top reasons ovens quit, easy steps you can try at home, and the signs that it’s time to call a specialist.

Why Your Oven Might Not Be Heating

First, check the power. A tripped breaker or a blown fuse is the simplest culprit. Reset the circuit and see if the oven lights up. If power is fine, the next usual suspect is the heating element. In electric ovens the element glows red when it works; a broken or burnt‑out element will stay dark. You can spot a gap or a broken coil with a flashlight.

For gas ovens, the burner igniter may be the problem. If you hear a clicking sound but no flame, the igniter could be weak. A bad igniter often needs replacement, and safety is key – never tamper with gas lines yourself.

Thermostat or temperature sensor failures also keep ovens from reaching set temps. A faulty sensor sends wrong data to the control board, so the oven thinks it’s already hot. You can test the sensor with a multimeter; resistance should change as the oven heats up.

Quick DIY Fixes Before You Call a Pro

Start with the basics: unplug the oven for a minute, then plug it back in. This resets the electronic board and can clear minor glitches. Next, clean the oven’s interior and the door seal. Built‑up grease can trap heat and cause uneven cooking.

If you’ve identified a broken heating element, you can replace it yourself in most electric models. Make sure the oven is off, remove the screws holding the element, disconnect the wires, install the new part, and re‑attach the screws. Remember to buy the exact part number for your oven model.

For gas igniters, you’ll need a new igniter that matches your burner type. Remove the old igniter, disconnect the wiring, snap the new one in place, and reconnect. If you’re unsure about handling gas components, it’s safer to get a qualified technician.

When the thermostat or sensor is at fault, replacement usually requires opening the control panel. This job is best left to a professional unless you have some electrical experience.

Lastly, keep up with regular maintenance. A yearly service can catch worn parts early, extend the oven’s lifespan, and keep energy bills down.

When you’ve tried these steps and the oven still won’t heat, or you notice strange smells, sparks, or a burning smell, stop using it and call an expert. A certified repair technician can safely test the control board, wiring, and gas connections, and give you a clear cost estimate.

At South Shields Appliance Repair Services we specialise in oven repairs, from heating element swaps to full control board diagnostics. Our team knows the common faults and can get your oven back in action quickly and affordably.

Don't let a faulty oven ruin dinner plans. Follow the simple checks above, and if the problem persists, reach out for professional help – you’ll be back to baking, roasting, and cooking in no time.