Oven Not Heating
When your oven won't reach temperature, cooking becomes impossible. Learn what might be wrong and what you can check.
Common Symptoms
You may be experiencing one or more of these issues:
- Oven doesn't heat at all
- Oven heats very slowly
- Can't reach set temperature
- Temperature fluctuates wildly
- Only top or bottom heats
- Convection fan runs but no heat
Possible Causes
Failed Igniter (Gas)
commonThe hot surface igniter has weakened and won't ignite the gas.
Failed Heating Element (Electric)
commonThe bake or broil element has burned out.
Faulty Temperature Sensor
moderateThe sensor that monitors oven temperature has failed or is misreading.
Control Board Problems
moderateThe electronic control isn't sending signals to heating components.
Gas Safety Valve Failure (Gas)
moderateThe safety valve that releases gas isn't opening.
Blown Thermal Fuse
rareA safety fuse has blown due to overheating.
DIY Troubleshooting Steps
- 1
Check Basic Settings
Verify oven is set to correct mode (bake, not broil). Check that temperature is set and displayed correctly.
- 2
Inspect Heating Elements (Electric)
Turn oven on and watch elements. They should glow red. Visible damage means replacement needed.
Don't touch elements when hot. - 3
Watch the Igniter (Gas)
Turn oven on and observe the igniter through the bottom vent. Should glow bright orange within 90 seconds.
If igniter glows but gas doesn't ignite, turn off and call for service. - 4
Test with Thermometer
Place an oven thermometer in center of oven. Compare reading to set temperature after 15-20 minutes.
- 5
Check for Error Codes
Look for any error codes on the display. Note them down for service call.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a repair service if you experience any of these situations:
- Igniter glows but gas doesn't ignite
- Heating element is visibly damaged
- Oven shows error codes
- Temperature is significantly off
- You smell gas when oven is on
- Multiple oven functions don't work
Ready to schedule professional repair?
Prevention Tips
- Don't line oven bottom with foil (blocks airflow)
- Clean spills promptly to prevent smoke and element damage
- Have annual professional inspection
- Report unusual sounds or smells promptly
You Might Also Be Experiencing
Can't Fix It Yourself?
Our experienced technicians are ready to help. Same-day service available for most repairs.
(623) 240-9330