Is your oven overheating and destroying your food? It may be highly aggravating and hazardous if it is not checked or left unchecked. The good news is that there are various things you can do to repair an overheating oven.
This post will go through 9 simple ways to solve an overheated oven. We will go through all the actions you may take to restore your oven’s performance, from cleaning it to replacing damaged components.
If your oven overheats whenever you use it, read this post carefully to discover how to fix it and get back to cooking delicious meals easily.
Why is your Oven Overheating?
An electric oven is an essential appliance in many households, used for cooking or baking. However, an oven may start overheating after it’s been used for a very long period.
If your electric oven starts overheating, then it’s a cause for concern. Why? Because it can damage or destroy your oven.
Here are some of the most common reasons behind an overheating oven:
1. Malfunctioning Thermostat
The electric oven thermostat is an essential component of the oven that regulates its temperature.
If the oven thermostat is faulty or damaged, the oven will fail to adjust its heat properly, resulting in overheating. In most cases, the thermostat may be stuck in the closed position or incorrectly calibrated.
Fix or replace the faulty thermostat to prevent further damage.
2. Faulty Temperature Sensor
The temperature sensors on electric ovens work with the thermostat to regulate the temperature.
If the sensor in your oven is bad, then your oven may start overheating. This can happen when the sensor is dirty or worn out over time.
3. Blocked Ventilation
The oven requires proper ventilation to regulate the temperature.
If the ventilation is blocked by food debris or other objects, it can cause the oven to overheat. This severely damages specific oven components and even creates a fire hazard.
4. Damaged Heating Element
The heating element in the oven is the component responsible for generating the required heat.
If your oven has a bad or damaged heating element, it may cause it to overheat; in some extreme cases cause, it does not heat up at all.
A damaged heating element may cause the oven to heat up to unsafe levels or not heat up at all. Loose connections, pile-up of food debris, and electrical wiring can damage the heating element.
5. Dirty Oven
A dirty oven can cause heat to be trapped inside, resulting in the oven overheating.
Built-up grease or food debris can cause the oven to heat up to unsafe levels or not heat up at all.
It’s essential to clean the oven regularly to prevent the accumulation of debris.
6. Electrical Issues
Electrical issues such as a damaged power cord or faulty wiring can cause the oven to overheat. This can happen if rodents damage the wiring or the power cord is frayed.
It’s essential to inspect the electrical components of the oven regularly to ensure they’re in good condition.
7. Oven Control Board Malfunction
The control board regulates the oven’s temperature and other functions.
If the control board is damaged or it’s not working fine, then it can cause your oven to begin overheating.
The control board can be damaged by moisture, food debris, or other electrical issues.
8. Faulty Oven Door
If the oven door is faulty and does not close properly, heat may escape from the oven, causing it to overheat.
This phenomenon can happen if the door seal is damaged or obstructions block the door from closing.
A faulty oven door can prevent the oven from running and create a fire hazard.
9. Incorrect Use
Incorrect oven use might cause it to overheat.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions when operating the oven for safe and proper use.
In conclusion, an oven can overheat for various reasons, ranging from issues with the thermostat to electrical problems.
Once the issue has been detected, it must be addressed promptly to prevent further damage to the oven.
Regular maintenance and cleaning can help prevent overheating and prolong the lifespan of the oven.
How to Fix an Oven Overheating?
If your oven overheats whenever you use it, it needs to be fixed before it is used again.
There are several ways to fix an overheating oven. Here are some easy solutions that can help you improve your overheating oven:
1. Replace the Thermostat
If the thermostat is not operating, it might lead to oven anomalies such as overheating. In such cases, replace the thermostat with a new one and check if it’s working.
To replace the thermostat, turn off the power source and open the control panel box at the back. Please take out the thermostat gently from the panel and inspect it.
A qualified electrical oven technician can test the thermostat to see if it’s still functional or needs replacing. After replacing the thermostat, test the oven to confirm that the thermostat is functioning correctly.
2. Replace the Temperature Sensor
The temperature sensor monitors the oven temperature and sends signals to the thermostat. If the sensor is faulty, it may cause severe temperature fluctuations like overheating.
To change the oven temperature sensor, turn off the power supply to the oven and gently remove the attached sensor.
A qualified technician can test the sensor and determine if it needs to be replaced. After replacement, the oven should be retested to ensure the temperature sensor functions correctly.
3. Clean the Ventilation
A blocked oven vent can cause the oven to overheat.
Remove any food debris or other objects blocking the oven vent to unblock it. To clean the ducts, use a soft brush or a vacuum cleaner.
If the vents are badly obstructed, the oven may need to be dismantled to get access to the vents.
4. Replace the Heating Element
A damaged heating element can cause the oven to overheat.
Turn off the power to the oven and locate the heating element. A technician can test the component and determine if it needs to be replaced.
After replacement, the oven should be retested to ensure the heating element functions correctly.
5. Clean the Oven
A dirty oven can cause the heat to be trapped inside, resulting in overheating.
To clean the inside of the oven, use a commercial oven cleaner or mix a paste of baking soda and water. Allow it to rest for several hours or overnight before wiping it clean.
Pay close attention to the oven elements, it’s corners and edges, where grease and food debris can build.
6. Check for Electrical Issues
Check the oven thoroughly for electrical issues, such as damaged wiring or frayed power cords. If you find any signs of damage, fix or replace them.
To inspect the electrical wiring in the oven, turn off the power supply and control panel. Inspect the wiring and power cord for any wear or damage.
If you discover any problems with the wiring that you cannot resolve, contact a certified professional to assist you.
7. Replace the Control Board
The control board regulates the oven’s temperature and other functions. If the control board is malfunctioning, immediately fix or replace it.
Before removing the control board from the oven, turn off the electricity. A qualified technician can test the control board and determine whether it needs to be replaced.
After replacement, the oven should be retested to ensure the control board functions correctly.
8. Repair or Replace the Oven Door
If the oven door is faulty and does not close properly, fix or replace it.
Check the door seal on the oven and replace it if it’s damaged. Clear any obstructions that may prevent the door from closing, and try closing the door again.
If the door hinge is damaged, then fix or replace it. After repair or replacement, the oven should be retested to ensure the door functions correctly.
9. Follow the Manufacturer’s Instructions
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when operating the oven for safety and proper usage.
Please do not use the oven for purposes other than what it’s designed for, and don’t leave it on for too long. Avoid placing objects on the oven, which can block ventilation and cause overheating.
If you need help operating the oven correctly, see the user handbook or contact the manufacturer for advice.
Note that some of these fixes may require the assistance of a qualified technician. If you need help carrying out the repairs properly, contact a professional for assistance.
Adrian is an ISCET licensed professional that has completed the National Appliance Service Technician Certification Exam and has the expertise to diagnose and repair any appliance. He is well-versed in the latest technologies and techniques and is always up-to-date on the latest industry standards.
