When your oven is not heating up, it can be an absolute nightmare!
When your oven doesn’t heat, it’s usually a problem with the heating element.
While a faulty heating element is the most common cause for this type of problem, there are several other reasons your oven may not be heating correctly.
Signs Your Oven Is Not Heating Properly
Firstly, let’s cover the signs your oven is not heating properly. Please note that if you have a grill function, it may still work correctly.
If your oven is not heating properly, you may notice:
1 > Food takes longer to cook fully.
2 > Meals are not cooked evenly.
3 > The oven cannot get up to temperature.
4 > The oven turns on as normal but no heat is produced whatsoever.
5 > The oven is unable to hold temperature.
6 > On some models, you may get an error code.
If you’re experiencing any of the above symptoms, it may be a problem with the heating element, thermostat or temperature sensor.
We recommend reading the next section for in-depth explanations on the most common causes for this type of problem.
The Most Common Problems & Solutions
Now that we know the possible symptoms for an oven which does not heat properly, let’s talk more about the causes. We will also offer advice towards the end of each point to help guide you in the right direction.
Please note that any and all pricing estimates in this section are solely estimates and do not include any potential labour costs.
1 > Faulty heating element. The heating element is responsible for producing heat inside the oven. Georgi, one of our most experienced engineers, has said that this is the most common cause if your oven appears to not be producing heat. If the heating element has failed, it will require replacement. While you can sometimes change this by yourself without professional help, if unsure, consult a repair centre. A new heating element will usually cost around £20 to £40 depending on the exact element type.
2 > Faulty thermostat. The thermostat controls and regulates the temperature inside the oven. If the thermostat fails, it may read the temperature inside the oven incorrectly. This can cause the heating cycle to stop too early or prevent it from starting altogether. If the thermostat inside your oven has failed, it will need to be replaced. A new thermostat will usually cost around £30 to £60 depending on the exact thermostat type.
3 > Faulty temperature sensor. The temperature sensor sends readings to the control system so that the system knows when to heat up or switch off. When this sensor fails, it can give incorrect readings. This can cause the oven to cook unevenly or too slowly. If required, this sensor can be replaced. A new temperature sensor usually costs around £15 to £30 depending on the make and model of your oven.
Other Possible Causes & Solutions
4 > Faulty oven selector switch. The selector switch allows you to choose different cooking functions. When this part fails, power may not be correctly sent to the correct components. The switch will need to be replaced when it develops a fault. A new selector switch can cost anywhere between £30 to as high as £100 depending on the make and model of your oven.
5 > Faulty fan. In fan-assisted ovens, the fan circulates the hot air evenly around the cavity. If the fan motor happens to fail, heat distribution will be affected. This can cause uneven cooking. A new fan motor will often cost around £30 to £60 to purchase online.
6 > Faulty control board. The control board manages all electrical functions of the oven. If you suspect that your oven has a faulty control board, we strongly recommend calling a professional service centre so that they can assist you further.
When should you call a professional?
For an oven that does not heat, we recommend calling a professional whenever you’re ready to get it repaired.
This type of problem can involve electricity and inexperienced hands can often make the repairing process more difficult later on.
To find a repair service near you, simply search “Oven repair in (your area)”. For example, “Oven Repairs In East London”.
Can I still use my oven if it is not heating properly?
You should avoid using the appliance as an oven which does not heat will not cook the food properly. Contact a professional service centre as soon as you can to get it repaired. Please do note that in some cases, using the oven while faulty may make any existing issues worse.
Is it worth repairing an oven that is not heating?
In most cases, yes, an oven which does not heat will be worth repairing. Many heating related faults require relatively inexpensive parts which are often widely available depending on the age of your appliance.
Conclusion
Your oven may not heat for common reasons such as a faulty heating element, faulty thermostat or in some cases, a faulty temperature sensor.
If your oven is tripping the fuse, you might find our other article helpful.
If you are unsure on what to do next or require more advice, please call us. We offer free advice over the phone. We also serve most parts of London and may even be able to help you in-person.