Oven Element vs Thermostat: How to Tell Which Is Broken
Is your oven acting up? Learn the signs of a broken element or thermostat, how to easily check them at home, and your best fix-it options.
Continue reading...First thing’s first – is the oven even getting power? Check the plug, the circuit breaker, and any fuses. A tripped breaker is the most common culprit and fixes itself in a minute once you reset it.
Look at the oven’s display. If you see an error code, jot it down and search the manual – the code tells you exactly what’s wrong, whether it’s a temperature sensor or a fan issue. No display? That could mean a broken control board or a dead thermostat.
Next, listen. When you turn the oven on, you should hear the fan spin and the heating elements click into place. No sound? The fan motor or the element may have failed. You can usually spot a burnt smell or visible cracks on the element; if it looks blackened, replace it.
Test the temperature. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) and place an oven‑safe thermometer inside. If the oven says 180°C but the thermometer reads 150°C, the thermostat or sensor is off. A quick reset of the thermostat (usually a small screw you can turn) can sometimes fix the drift.
Check the door seal. A ragged gasket lets heat escape, making the oven work harder and sometimes causing uneven cooking. Run a finger around the edge; if you feel gaps, replace the seal. It’s a cheap fix that solves many heating complaints.
If you’ve tried the above and the oven still won’t heat, it’s time to call a pro. Issues like a faulty control board, gas valve problems (for gas ovens), or complex wiring need a qualified technician. Trying to tinker with those parts yourself can be dangerous.
Northampton Appliance Repairs Services can diagnose the fault in under an hour and give you a clear price before any work starts. Their technicians are certified, so you won’t risk voiding any warranties.
Another sign you need a pro is persistent error codes that don’t clear after a reset. Those codes often point to sensor failures or software glitches that require specialised tools to re‑program.
Finally, if you smell gas or notice any sparking when you open the oven door, shut it off at the mains immediately and call an emergency service. Safety always comes first.
Bottom line: a quick visual check, a power reset, and a thermometer test cover most DIY diagnostics. When those steps don’t help, professional help saves time, money, and hassle. Your oven will be back to baking pies and roasting chickens in no time.
Is your oven acting up? Learn the signs of a broken element or thermostat, how to easily check them at home, and your best fix-it options.
Continue reading...