Old Oven Repair: Quick Tips to Save Money and Keep Cooking

If your oven has been in the kitchen for years and now refuses to heat, you’re probably wondering whether to fix it or buy a new one. The good news is that many problems in old ovens are simple to spot and cheap to repair. Below we break down the most common faults, give you a rough idea of costs, and show how to decide if a repair is worth it.

Typical Issues with an Aging Oven

Older ovens usually suffer from a handful of predictable failures:

• Heating element gone bad. If the oven stays cool while the timer runs, the element is likely burnt out.
• Thermostat or temperature sensor failure. The oven may overheat or stay too low because the sensor sends the wrong signal.
• Faulty door seal. Heat escapes, causing uneven cooking and higher energy bills.
• Control board glitches. Modern ovens use electronic boards that can develop bad connections.
• Loose wiring. Years of heat can loosen or corrode wires, leading to intermittent power.

Most of these problems can be confirmed with a quick visual check or a multimeter test. If you’re comfortable handling basic tools, you can replace an element or sensor yourself for under £30. Anything involving the control board or wiring is best left to a professional.

How Much Should You Expect to Pay?

Repair costs vary widely based on the fault and the model. Here’s a rough guide for the Northampton area:

• Element replacement: £50‑£80 (parts + labour).
• Thermostat or sensor swap: £60‑£100.
• Door seal replacement: £40‑£70.
• Control board repair: £120‑£200.
• General service call: £40‑£60.

If the total bill climbs above half the price of a comparable new oven, it’s time to think about replacement. A mid‑range new electric oven costs around £400‑£600, so a repair under £200 usually makes sense.

Remember to ask for a written quote before any work starts. Transparent pricing helps you compare repair versus replacement more easily.

When you call a local repair service, make sure they are experienced with older models. Many technicians in Northampton specialize in vintage appliances and can source hard‑to‑find parts.

In short, don’t rush to toss that old oven. Identify the symptom, check the price range, and then decide. A quick fix can extend the life of a beloved kitchen workhorse and keep your food tasting great.