If your oven has been on the kitchen counter for a decade, you might be wondering whether it’s still worth fixing. The good news is that many ten‑year‑old ovens have plenty of life left if you catch the right issues early. The bad news is that some problems, like a burnt heating element, can quickly become expensive to replace. Below we’ll walk through simple tests, typical faults, and cost‑effective fixes so you can decide what makes sense for your budget.
First, give the oven a quick visual once it’s unplugged. Look for obvious signs: cracked glass, burnt scorch marks, or loose wires. If everything looks tidy, run a basic self‑test. Turn the oven on to a low temperature (around 150°C) and watch whether the heating element glows evenly. A hot spot or no heat at all usually points to an element or thermostat issue.
Next, listen for unusual noises. A humming sound without heat might mean the fan motor is working but the element isn’t. If you hear clicking or buzzing, the thermostat could be failing. Finally, check the door seal. A worn seal lets heat escape, making the oven work harder and shortening its lifespan.
Many common oven problems are cheap to fix. A faulty thermostat typically costs under £50 for a new part plus labor. Replacing a heating element usually runs between £70 and £120, depending on the model. If the issue is a blown fuse or a tripped circuit breaker, you can often reset it yourself without calling a professional.
Cleaning the oven’s interior can also solve performance hiccups. Grease buildup on the element reduces heat output. A gentle scrub with baking soda paste restores efficiency and may delay the need for a new part.
When you’re unsure, it’s worth calling a local repair service for a free quote. A reputable technician will diagnose the problem, give you an itemized cost, and advise if the repair is financially sensible compared to buying a new oven.
Speaking of new ovens, the average price for a mid‑range model in the UK sits around £400‑£600. If your repair estimate is approaching that range, or if the oven shows multiple signs of wear, replacing it might be the smarter move.
Regular maintenance keeps an older oven running longer. Schedule a simple check‑up once a year: clean the interior, inspect the door seal, and test the temperature accuracy with an oven thermometer. Small actions now prevent big headaches later.
In short, a ten‑year‑old oven can still be a reliable kitchen workhorse. Start with a visual inspection, run a basic heat test, and weigh repair costs against the price of a new unit. If the fix is cheap and the oven still heats evenly, you’ll likely get several more years of service. If not, it’s time to browse the latest models and upgrade.
Deciding whether to repair or replace a decade-old oven can be daunting. There are factors like repair costs, energy efficiency, and appliance lifespan to consider. This article will guide you through the key considerations and provide tips on when it's financially wise to fix an old oven versus investing in a new one. We'll also explore simple DIY fixes and when to call a professional.