If your oven isn’t heating properly before the holidays, the problem usually lies in a faulty heating element, temperature sensor, or power supply. Start by confirming power at the outlet, testing the bake element for continuity, and calibrating the thermostat. For gas ovens, inspect the igniter. If issues persist, schedule a same-day diagnostic with iFix Appliances Raleigh NC.

Why It Matters

A malfunctioning oven right before the holidays can ruin family gatherings and holiday meals. Beyond inconvenience, uneven or low oven temperatures waste energy, extend cooking times, and can even pose safety risks if gas ignition fails. Identifying the problem early ensures your oven works efficiently — saving you stress, money, and your holiday dinner plans.

Step-by-Step: How to Fix an Oven That’s Not Heating

1. Check the Power Source

• Electric ovens: Ensure the outlet delivers 240 volts. A tripped breaker can partially cut power, leaving the control panel active but disabling heating.
• Gas ovens: Verify the gas line valve is open and the igniter glows when starting a bake cycle.

2. Inspect the Heating Elements (Electric Ovens)

• Unplug the oven and visually inspect both bake and broil elements.
• Look for blisters, dark spots, or breaks — signs the element is burned out.
• Use a multimeter to test continuity. If there’s no reading, replace the element.

3. Test the Igniter (Gas Ovens)

• The most common culprit in gas ovens is a weak or failed igniter.
• Turn on “Bake” mode — if the igniter glows but the gas doesn’t ignite within 90 seconds, the igniter likely lacks sufficient amperage.
• Replacement typically costs $100–$200 including labor.

4. Calibrate or Replace the Temperature Sensor

• A faulty temperature sensor can misread the oven’s internal temperature.
• Use a digital thermometer inside the oven at 350°F. If readings differ by more than 25°F, calibration or replacement is needed.
• Access the sensor at the back wall and test it for resistance (usually around 1,100 Ω at room temp).

5. Check the Control Board or Thermostat

• If elements and sensors test fine, the main control board or oven thermostat could be failing.
• Look for burn marks or loose wire connections.
• Replacement may require professional service, as improper wiring can cause short circuits.

6. Inspect the Door Seal

• A worn gasket lets heat escape, leading to undercooked food.
• Check for cracks or loosened edges. Replacement seals are inexpensive and easy to install — just pull out the old one and push the new one into the channel.

Example: Real-World Holiday Fix

A Raleigh homeowner called iFix Appliances days before Thanksgiving. Their GE electric oven wouldn’t bake past 250°F. Our technician found the bake element had burned out — a quick 45-minute repair with OEM parts restored full heat. They avoided a ruined turkey dinner and unnecessary oven replacement.

Pro tip: Run a quick oven test at least two weeks before the holidays to ensure everything works as expected.

Fresh Stats (2025 Update)

1. 65% of oven heating issues are caused by failed heating elements or igniters (Source: HomeServe, 2025).
2. The average repair cost for oven heating problems in the U.S. ranges from $150–$350, much cheaper than replacement (HomeAdvisor, 2025).
3. Modern smart ovens reduce cooking time by up to 20% when properly calibrated, saving both time and energy (Energy.gov).
4. Electric ovens are found in 71% of U.S. households, making heating element failure the most common repair request.
5. Holiday appliance repair calls increase by 40% in November and December, according to iFix Appliances Raleigh internal data.

Summary

Don’t let a cold oven ruin your holiday feast! Whether you’re baking cookies or roasting turkey, your oven should heat evenly and efficiently. If your gas or electric oven isn’t reaching temperature, iFix Appliances Raleigh NC provides same-day oven repair for all major brands — GE, Samsung, LG, Whirlpool, Maytag, and more.

📞 Call iFix Appliances today or book online to get your oven heating like new — just in time for the holidays!

FAQs

1. Why does my oven turn on but not heat up?

It’s usually due to a broken bake element or igniter. The control panel might still work even if the heating system fails.

2. How can I tell if the heating element is burned out?

Look for visible damage — blisters or dark spots. Test it with a multimeter; no continuity means it’s faulty.

3. Should I reset my oven before calling for service?

Yes. Unplug it for 5 minutes or flip the circuit breaker to reset the control board. Sometimes, this clears a glitch.

4. My gas oven smells like gas but doesn’t heat — what should I do?

Turn it off immediately and ventilate the area. The igniter may have failed, causing unburned gas. Call a licensed technician.

5. How often should I test my oven’s temperature accuracy?

Once every 6 months, or before major holidays. Use a thermometer and calibrate if the difference exceeds 25°F.

6. Is it worth repairing an older oven?

If your oven is under 10 years old and parts are available, repair is almost always cheaper than replacement.