An oven that doesn’t heat properly can be frustrating, especially when your food takes too long or comes out unevenly baked. A malfunctioning oven can be caused by various factors, ranging from faulty components to minor calibration issues.
In this guide, we’ll explore the common reasons why your oven may not be reaching the right temperature, how to fix these problems, and the cost of replacing a faulty heating element.
Why Is My Oven Not Heating Up to the Proper Temperature?
Several issues could be responsible if your oven isn’t reaching the correct temperature or heating. Here are the most common reasons that you might need to get oven repair job done:
1. Faulty Heating Element (Electric Ovens)
Electric ovens rely on two main heating elements:
- The bake element (located at the base of the oven)
- The broil element (located at the top)
If either of these elements is damaged or burnt out, your oven won’t heat properly. A good way to check is to turn on the oven and observe the elements. They may need replacement if they don’t glow red or show visible damage (blisters or cracks).
2. Defective Igniter (Gas Ovens)
Gas ovens use an igniter to light the burner. The oven won’t heat properly if the igniter is weak or broken. Signs of a faulty igniter include:
- The oven is taking too long to heat up
- No glow from the igniter
- The oven is not lit at all
3. Malfunctioning Temperature Sensor or Thermostat
The oven’s temperature sensor measures the internal heat and signals the control board to adjust accordingly. If this sensor is malfunctioning, the oven may:
- Overheat
- Underheat
- Not maintaining a steady temperature
To check if your sensor works correctly, measure its resistance using an ohmmeter. If the reading is inconsistent, the sensor should be replaced.
4. Broken Oven Door Seal
If the oven door doesn’t seal properly, heat can escape, preventing the oven from reaching the correct temperature. Check the gasket around the oven door for cracks or wear, and go for oven repair services if necessary.
5. Issues with Power Supply
For electric ovens, a tripped circuit breaker or loose wiring may prevent the oven from getting enough power to heat up. For gas ovens, ensure the gas supply is turned on and functioning correctly.
6. Control Board or Relay Board Failure
The electronic control board regulates the oven’s heating cycles. If it malfunctions, the oven may fail to heat properly. This issue is less common but may require a professional repair.
7. Clogged Gas Burner (Gas Ovens Only)
A clogged burner can prevent the gas oven from heating correctly. Dirt, grease, or debris may block the burner holes, reducing gas flow. Regular cleaning can prevent this issue.
How to Fix an Inaccurate Oven Temperature?
Now that we’ve identified the possible causes, let’s go over how to fix an oven that isn’t heating correctly.
1. Check and Replace the Heating Elements
If you suspect a faulty heating element:
- Turn off the oven and unplug it.
- Inspect the bake and broil elements for visible damage.
- It likely needs replacement if the element is not glowing red when turned on.
You can purchase a new heating element online or from an appliance repair store. Most replacement elements cost between $20 and $100.
2. Test and Replace the Temperature Sensor
To check the temperature sensor:
- Use a multimeter to measure its resistance.
- A properly functioning sensor should read 1,000 to 1,100 ohms at room temperature.
- If the reading is inconsistent, replace the sensor.
Depending on the brand, new temperature sensors cost around $30 to $80.
3. Calibrate the Oven Thermostat
Calibration may be needed if your oven is heating but not reaching the correct temperature. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheat the oven and place an oven thermometer inside.
- Set the oven to 350°F (177°C) and wait 15–20 minutes.
- Check the thermometer. You may need to adjust the thermostat if it reads higher or lower than the set temperature.
- Refer to your user manual for instructions on calibration.
Most ovens allow manual temperature adjustments through their settings. If calibration doesn’t solve the issue, the thermostat may need replacement.
4. Inspect and Replace the Oven Door Gasket
If heat is escaping due to a faulty door seal:
- Check the rubber gasket around the oven door.
- Look for cracks, looseness, or damage.
- If needed, replace the gasket with a new one.
New oven door gaskets cost $20 to $50, and installation is simple.
5. Reset the Power Supply
For electric ovens, check if the circuit breaker has tripped. Reset it if necessary.
Ensure the valve is turned on for gas ovens and the igniter works.
6. Clean the Gas Burner (Gas Ovens Only)
If you suspect a clogged burner:
- Turn off the gas supply.
- Remove the burner and clean the holes using a soft brush and warm, soapy water.
- Dry thoroughly before reattaching.
7. Replace the Igniter (Gas Ovens Only)
A failing igniter is a common cause of heating problems in gas ovens. If it glows but doesn’t ignite, it needs replacement. New igniters cost $30 to $100, and installation takes 30–60 minutes.
8. Consult a Professional for Electrical or Control Board Issues
If your oven still doesn’t work after these steps, the control board or relay board may be faulty. Professional repairs can cost between $150 and $400, depending on the issue.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Heating Element in an Oven?
Replacing your oven’s heating element is usually the best solution if your oven’s heating element is broken. Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:
Component Price Range
Heating element (electric)
$20 – $100
Igniter (gas oven)
$30 – $100
Temperature sensor
$30 – $80
Door gasket
$20 – $50
Thermostat
$50 – $150
Control board
$150 – $400
Professional repair service
$100 – $300
If you DIY the repair, you’ll only pay for parts. If you hire a technician, labor costs typically range from $80 to $150 per hour.
Final Thoughts
An oven that isn’t heating properly can be due to various factors, including a faulty heating element, thermostat issues, or power supply problems. The good news is that many of these problems can be easily fixed by recalibrating the oven, replacing parts, or performing basic oven repair services.
If troubleshooting doesn’t resolve the issue, a professional Oven Fixer can help restore your oven’s functionality. In some cases, if the repair costs are too high, it may be more cost-effective to replace the oven entirely.
Regular maintenance and cleaning can prevent future heating problems, ensuring your oven stays in top condition for years.
