Fix an Electric Oven That Heats Poorly

If your electric oven is heating poorly, not maintaining its temperature, overheating or under-heating, or not heating at all, the problem could be the result of any number of issues. Your oven might have a blown fuse. It is also possible that it is simply not plugged in correctly. Problems like these you can investigate yourself and possibly fix on your own. However, there may be some problems that require the attention of a professional contractor.

Steps

  1. Disconnect your oven from its power source before you do any investigative or repair work. An electric shock can cause severe injuries or even death. Also, be aware that some oven components may have sharp edges. Proceed with caution.
  2. Check your fuse box to see if the oven blew a fuse. If your oven isn't working altogether, this may be the problem.
    • Older ovens have their own fuses. To check if one is blown, pull the oven out from behind the wall. The fuse is located under the range top on the back of the oven.
  3. Make sure the oven's wall plug is plugged in all of the way. A partially removed plug may be the reason your oven won't turn on.

Not Heating Properly

  1. Replace the oven's heating element if it is burned out. You can tell there's a problem if the element glows only a little or only in certain areas along the element.
    • To replace the element, unscrew the bracket that holds it in place; this bracket is located at the back of the oven. Remove the corresponding wires. Replace the element in the same way that you removed it and screw the element back on securely.
    • If you feel uneasy about removing and replacing the element, consider hiring a repairman to help you.
  2. Make sure your oven's thermostat works correctly if the element seems to be working properly.
    • Some ovens have a thermostat bulb that can come loose, in which case you would find it lying on the bottom of the oven or resting against the heating element. If the thermostat sensing bulb is still in place, it could still be defective and may need to be replaced.
    • With some oven models, you can calibrate the temperature on a keypad. On other models there's a thermostat knob that can be adjusted. Check your owner's manual for complete instructions.
    • If the thermostat isn't calibrated correctly, you may have to replace a gasket. Contact a professional repairman if this is the case.
  3. Unclog your oven's vent if the oven overheats. The vent is an opening centered at the back of the stove top. Simply cleaning the vent may be all you need to get it back in working order.
    • Use a multi-purpose liquid spray or mix 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of baking soda to 1 quart (1 L) of water to create a cleaner. Spray the cleaner on the vent, let it soak for a few minutes, then wipe the area clean with a rag or sponge.
  4. Contact a repairman if the oven doesn't hold the temperature at which it is set. In that case, your oven door gasket may be damaged; in which case it must be replaced.

Sources and Citations

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