Why Your Oven is not Heating Properly and How to Fix It
If your oven is taking too long to heat or fails to reach the right temperature, here are some common causes:
- Faulty Heating Element (Electric Ovens): A damaged bake or broil element that is blistered or broken can prevent your oven from reaching high temperatures.
- Broken Igniter (Gas Ovens): A weak or broken igniter may fail to open the gas valve, leaving the oven underpowered.
- Malfunctioning Temperature Sensor: If the sensor touches the oven wall or is faulty, it can send incorrect readings to the control board.
- Calibration Issues: Over time, the thermostat may drift and need recalibration to match the actual temperature.
- Damaged Door Seal or Hinge: A door that doesn’t close properly lets heat escape, keeping the oven from heating efficiently.
Troubleshooting Steps You Can Try:
- Check the Heating Elements: Inspect for visible damage. Using a multimeter, test for continuity (usually 10–75 ohms).
- Inspect the Sensor: Make sure the temperature probe isn’t touching the oven wall.
- Test the Temperature: Place an oven thermometer inside to compare actual vs. set temperature.
- Recalibrate: Follow your oven manual to adjust the temperature offset if needed.
If these steps don’t fix the problem, contact a professional appliance technician to diagnose and repair your oven safely.
Contact Us for Expert Range Repair
Stop guessing if your oven is actually hot enough. Whether it’s a faulty igniter, a broken element, or a calibration issue, the experts at Home Appliance Care provide fast, professional gas and electric oven repairs across Alexandria, Arlington, McLean, and surrounding Virginia areas.
Call us today at (571) 206-1560
Visit us at homeappliancecare.us
Oven is not Heating Properly — Frequently Asked Questions
The most likely cause depends on your oven type. For electric ovens, a faulty heating element is common. For gas ovens, a weak or broken igniter is a frequent culprit.
Place an oven thermometer in the center of the rack and preheat to 350°F. Compare the thermometer reading to the set temperature after 20 minutes to check for significant differences.
Call a technician if you are uncomfortable working with gas or electrical components, if the problem persists after basic troubleshooting, or if you suspect a faulty gas valve or control board.