How Do I Know If My Oven Needs a New Element?

If you have difficulty cooking food in an oven, a faulty element could be to blame. However, there is an assortment of reasons why this appliance might fail to heat your meals. Follow these steps to diagnose the problem:

1. Select “bake” to test the bottom element or “broil” if you want to check the top unit. Set the thermostat and wait several minutes. Open the door and inspect the element before your appliance finishes preheating.

2. This component probably doesn’t require replacement if the entire coil glows orange. On the other hand, an element is faulty when some portions stay dark and others glow. You might need a new unit if the whole coil remains dark.

When the entire element fails to light up, there are several feasible explanations. For example, the temperature sensor may have failed.

If your oven has a digital screen, check for an error code. Consider all of these possibilities:

1. A gas appliance might fail to heat food because its igniter has stopped working. This part may need replacement if you can see cracks on its surface or it doesn’t glow after you turn on the oven.

2. If the appliance’s indicator lights don’t work, it’s probably not receiving power. Check your home’s electrical panel to see if it has tripped a breaker. Inspect the outlet as well.

3. Your oven might contain a fuse that needs replacement. Refer to the owner’s manual; it will help you find and check the fuse. Keep in mind that a blown fuse or tripped breaker may reflect serious problems with your oven or home electrical system.

To ensure an accurate diagnosis, schedule an appointment with an appliance repair professional. A qualified technician can safely replace your oven’s heating element or fix any other components that need service.