Cooker Problems: Quick Fixes and When to Call a Pro

If your cooker isn’t heating, makes strange noises, or just won’t turn on, you probably feel stuck. The good news is many issues are simple to spot and fix yourself. Below we break down the most common problems, give you a step‑by‑step checklist, and tell you when it’s smart to call Bridgewater Appliance Fixers.

Common Cooker Problems and What They Mean

1. No power at all – First thing to check is whether the cooker is plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. If the control panel is dark, try a different outlet or reset the breaker. If that doesn’t help, the internal fuse may be blown and needs replacement.

2. Uneven heating – When one burner stays cool while the others work, the ignition electrode might be dirty or the burner cap could be misaligned. Remove the cap, clean any food debris, then reseat it. A cracked ceramic hob also causes hot spots; that usually needs a pro’s eye.

3. Hissing or clicking noises – A persistent hiss often points to a gas leak in a gas cooker. Turn off the gas supply immediately and ventilate the area. For electric cookers, a clicking sound can mean a faulty thermostat or a loose connection.

4. Oven won’t heat – Check the oven temperature sensor with a multimeter; a reading far off the expected range means the sensor is bad. If the heater element looks scorched or broken, it needs swapping out.

5. Burner ignites then goes out – This is usually caused by a dirty igniter or insufficient gas flow. Clean the igniter tip with a soft brush and make sure the gas valve is fully open.

DIY Checks Before You Call a Repair Tech

Start with the easy stuff. Unplug the cooker, let it cool, and give it a quick visual inspection. Look for burnt marks, broken wires, or anything out of place.

Next, run a basic reset. For many electric models, holding down the power button for 10 seconds resets the control board. For gas models, turn the knob to the ‘off’ position, wait a minute, then try again.

If you have a multimeter handy, test the continuity of the heating element and the thermostat. No continuity means the part is dead and must be replaced.

Don’t forget to clean the filters and vent holes. A clogged vent can cause overheating and trigger safety shut‑offs.

When you’ve tried these steps and the cooker still misbehaves, it’s time to call a professional. Bridgewater Appliance Fixers can diagnose hidden faults, replace parts safely, and get your cooker back in action without hassle.

Remember, safety comes first. If you smell gas, hear a loud pop, or see sparks, stop what you’re doing and call a qualified technician right away. Trying to fix a serious fault yourself can be dangerous.

Regular maintenance helps avoid most problems. Wipe down burners after each use, check the gas line annually, and schedule a professional check‑up every couple of years.

Got a cooker that’s giving you grief? Follow the quick checks above, and if the issue persists, give Bridgewater Appliance Fixers a call. We’ll have your kitchen cooking again in no time.