Oven Not Working After Element Replacement? 7 Possible Fixes
Why Oven Element Replacement Matters
The heating element is the main component of any electric oven, generating the heat needed to cook. Over time, it can wear out or break, causing uneven performance. An oven element replacement restores proper function and consistent results.
Here's Why Replacing the Element Matters:
Restores Full Functionality: A properly working element ensures your oven heats evenly and reaches the correct temperature.
Improves Cooking Performance: Without a working element, foods may cook unevenly or not at all.
Saves Money On Energy: A failing element can draw more electricity without efficiently converting it to heat.
Extends Appliance Life: Timely replacement can prevent strain on other components, such as the control board or thermostat.
However, if your oven doesn't start working after a new element is installed, it's important to explore other related issues. That’s why understanding what might go wrong, even after a replacement, is critical for a full repair.
7 Common Causes Your Oven Still Isn’t Working After Element Replacement
Even after an oven element replacement, your oven might still refuse to work properly. Below are some common oven heating issues that could be causing the problem and how to fix them.
Improper Heating Element Installation
The newly installed heating element may not be properly connected or aligned.
Symptoms:
The oven does not heat up at all.
Loose or wobbly element.
Sparks or unusual noises when turning the oven on.
Fixes:
Turn off the power to the oven at the breaker.
Remove and reinstall the heating element, ensuring it is seated properly and securely fastened.
Check for any bent terminals or disconnected wires.
Confirm wires are firmly attached to the element terminals.
Electrical Power Supply Issue
The oven is not receiving the full 240 volts it needs to operate, often due to a tripped circuit breaker or a faulty outlet.
Symptoms:
The oven light or control panel works, but it won’t heat.
No sound or click when the oven is turned on.
Burners (on electric ranges) might work while the oven doesn’t.
Fixes:
Check your Kitchen’s circuit breaker panel; reset any tripped breakers.
Use a multimeter to test the wall outlet for 240V (for electric ovens).
If hardwired, inspect the junction box for burned or loose wiring.
Call an electrician if you're uncomfortable testing voltage.
Blown Thermal Fuse or Tripped High-Limit Thermostat
The oven's safety devices, thermal fuse or high-limit thermostat, have been triggered due to overheating or a short circuit.
Symptoms:
The oven is completely unresponsive or not heating despite having power.
No display or lights.
The heating element receives no power.
Fixes:
Locate the thermal fuse (typically at the back or top of the oven).
Use a multimeter to test for continuity; if there’s no continuity, replace the fuse.
Replace a faulty high-limit thermostat with a part approved for your oven model.
Make sure the oven isn’t pushed too tightly against a wall, causing overheating.
Faulty Oven Control Board or Thermostat
The control board or temperature thermostat isn’t sending power to the heating element.
Symptoms:
Display turns on, but the oven doesn’t heat.
Settings don’t respond or change temperature erratically.
No relay click when the oven is activated.
Fixes:
Use a multimeter to test the output from the control board to the element.
If faulty, replace the control board (often requires professional service).
For analog ovens, test and replace the thermostat if necessary.
Damaged or Loose Wiring
During installation, a wire may have been disconnected, loosened, or damaged.
Symptoms:
Intermittent heating.
Visual signs of damage, like burnt or frayed wires.
Electrical burning smell.
Fixes:
Disconnect power and inspect all wiring behind the oven and at the element terminals.
Repair or replace any burnt, broken, or disconnected wires.
Ensure all spade connectors are tightly secured.
Wrong Heating Element Installed
The new element is not compatible with your oven’s make or model, or has incorrect wattage.
Symptoms:
The oven doesn’t heat or heats unevenly.
Tripped breaker or unusual smell.
The control board may shut down heating as a protective measure.
Fixes:
Verify the model number of your oven and compare it to the replacement part.
Use OEM or manufacturer-approved parts only.
If unsure, consult the appliance manual or parts distributor for the correct match.
Timer, Clock, or Delayed Start Settings
The oven may be stuck in a timed delay mode or require a clock reset before heating.
Symptoms:
The oven light and display work, but it won’t start heating.
The timer display shows a countdown or “delayed start” without manual input.
The control panel is unresponsive.
Fixes:
Reset the oven clock to the correct time.
Cancel all timers and delay start settings.
Perform a full power cycle by unplugging the oven (or turning off the breaker) for a few minutes, then restarting.
When your oven isn’t working after an oven element replacement, the issue is often something else, like loose connections or a faulty control board. Use the checklist above to diagnose the problem based on symptoms. This approach helps you find the root cause quickly and avoid unnecessary part replacements. With careful troubleshooting, you can get your oven working efficiently again.
Having trouble finding the right parts to fix your oven? PartsFeCA offers a wide range of oven element replacement parts like oven thermostats, oven ignitors, and oven door gaskets to get your oven back in action fast.
FAQs
Why does my oven element keep failing?-
Oven elements often fail due to wear and tear from repeated heating cycles, electrical surges, or improper installation. Using the wrong replacement part or poor electrical connections can also cause premature failure.
How do you reset the electrical system on an oven?
To reset your oven’s electrical system, turn off the oven at the circuit breaker or unplug it from the power source, wait about 5 minutes, then restore power. This process can clear minor electronic glitches or control board errors.
What is the lifespan of an oven element?
The average oven heating element lasts between 3 to 5 years, depending on usage and maintenance. Frequent heavy use or electrical issues can shorten its lifespan significantly.
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