Oven Repair: Quick fixes and when to call an expert
If your oven stops heating, makes weird noises, or just won’t turn on, you’re probably annoyed and hungry. The good news is many problems are simple to diagnose and fix yourself. This guide walks you through the most common issues, easy DIY steps, and the signs that it’s time to ring a South Shields repair specialist.
Common oven problems and simple fixes
First up, the oven not heating. Check the power supply – is the plug secure and is the breaker on? A tripped fuse is the easiest culprit. Next, look at the heating element. When you turn the oven on, you should see the element glow red. If it stays cool, the element may be burnt out and needs swapping. You can spot a break or dark spot with a flashlight.
Temperature variations are another frequent gripe. If food is consistently under‑cooked, the thermostat could be mis‑reading. A quick test: put an oven‑safe thermometer inside, set the oven to 180°C, and see what the thermometer shows after 15 minutes. If there’s a big gap, the thermostat or temperature sensor likely needs replacing.
Stuck or unresponsive controls often come from a faulty keypad or a loose wiring connection. Turn the oven off, let it cool, then remove the back panel (make sure it’s unplugged). Look for loose wires or burnt connectors. Tighten any loose screws and reseat the connectors – many times the oven works again.
Finally, a smelly or smoky oven usually means food residue or a grease build‑up on the element. Clean the interior with a mild detergent, wipe the element gently, and run a short “self‑clean” cycle if your model has one. Clear the vent and fan as well; blocked airflow can cause overheating.
When to call a professional
DIY fixes are great, but some situations call for a qualified technician. Gas ovens that won’t ignite, signs of electrical arcing, or a broken door seal impacting heat loss are best left to pros. Trying to repair a gas valve yourself can be dangerous, and a licensed engineer has the tools to safely test gas pressure.
Also, if you’ve swapped an element or sensor and the oven still won’t work, the control board may be at fault. Those boards are expensive and need proper diagnosis to avoid unnecessary replacement. A South Shields repair service can test the board with specialized equipment and give you a clear cost estimate.
Time is another factor. If you need the oven fixed fast for a big family dinner or a catering job, a local company can often schedule a same‑day visit. They’ll bring common spare parts, so you don’t sit waiting for weeks.
Choosing the right service matters. Look for a company that offers a clear price list, guarantees work, and has good local reviews. South Shields Appliance Repair Services, for example, offers transparent rates, a same‑day response window, and technicians who know the most common oven models in the area.
In short, start with the basics – power, element, thermostat, and clean the interior. If those steps don’t bring your oven back to life, don’t gamble with gas or complex electronics. Call a trusted South Shields pro, get a quick diagnosis, and enjoy a fully functional oven again.