Homeowners Club If you are one of the 15 million homeowners in the UK, the free to join online Homeowners Club is for you.
Related Articles
Ovens are one of the most relied-on appliances in any kitchen. But like all hardworking machines, they sometimes go wrong. The good news is that many common oven problems have straightforward fixes — and knowing what to look out for can save you time, money, and frustration.
1. Oven Not Heating Up Properly
- The problem: You switch on the oven, but food takes longer to cook or never reaches the right temperature.
- Likely causes:
- A faulty heating element (electric ovens).
- A broken igniter or gas supply issue (gas ovens).
- A faulty thermostat.
- Fix:
- Check the heating element for visible damage (burn marks, blistering). Replace if faulty.
- For gas ovens, listen for clicks or check if the igniter glows — if not, it may need replacing.
- If the thermostat is faulty, professional replacement is usually needed.
2. Oven Door Not Closing Properly
- The problem: Heat escapes, food cooks unevenly, or the oven takes longer to preheat.
- Likely causes:
- Worn or broken door hinges.
- Damaged door seals or gaskets.
- Fix:
- Replace faulty hinges (a simple DIY job on most ovens).
- Check the rubber door seal for wear or cracks — replacing it restores proper insulation.
3. Uneven Cooking
- The problem: Cakes are burnt on one side but raw on the other, or trays don’t cook evenly.
- Likely causes:
- Faulty heating element or fan (in fan ovens).
- Overloaded oven trays blocking airflow.
- Fix:
- Test the oven’s fan: if it isn’t spinning or makes unusual noises, it may need replacing.
- Avoid overcrowding trays to let hot air circulate properly.
4. Oven Light Not Working
- The problem: You can’t see inside the oven while cooking.
- Likely causes:
- Burnt-out bulb.
- Faulty light fitting or switch.
- Fix:
- Replace the bulb (always check the manual for the correct type).
- If a new bulb doesn’t solve the issue, the socket or switch may need professional attention.
5. Oven Not Turning On at All
- The problem: No power, no lights, no heat.
- Likely causes:
- Tripped circuit breaker or blown fuse.
- Faulty power supply or wiring.
- Defective control board.
- Fix:
- Check the mains plug and reset the breaker.
- Test another appliance in the socket to rule out power issues.
- If still dead, an electrician or engineer should inspect the wiring or control board.
6. Strange Noises
- The problem: Whirring, rattling, or buzzing sounds while the oven is running.
- Likely causes:
- Faulty cooling fan or oven fan.
- Loose panels or screws.
- Fix:
- Tighten any loose screws on panels or doors.
- If the fan is noisy, it may need cleaning or replacement.
7. Burning Smells or Smoke
- The problem: Strong smells or smoke fill the kitchen when the oven is on.
- Likely causes:
- Food debris or grease build-up.
- Faulty wiring or overheating components.
- Fix:
- Deep-clean the oven, including trays, shelves, and door glass.
- If the smell is electrical (sharp or plastic-like), switch off the oven and call a professional immediately.
Safety Note
While some fixes (like changing bulbs, seals, or hinges) are simple DIY jobs, others — especially those involving gas, electrics, or wiring — should be handled by a qualified technician for safety.
Most oven problems start small but get worse if left unchecked. Regular cleaning, maintenance, and prompt repairs can extend your oven’s lifespan and keep your cooking consistent. Knowing how to spot common issues means you’ll spend less time stressing over dinner — and more time enjoying it
