Electric Oven Repair Guide – Fix Heating Problems Fast
If your oven stops heating, you’re probably wondering whether it’s a simple glitch or a costly failure. The good news is many issues are easy to spot and can be solved without a full service call. Below we walk through the most common symptoms, quick DIY checks, and the right moment to call Bridgewater Appliance Fixers.
Common Signs Your Oven Element Is Failing
Electrical ovens rely on one or two heating elements – the big metal coils you see at the top and bottom. When they start to go bad you’ll notice a few tell‑tale signs:
- Uneven or no heat: Food cooks on one side but stays cold on the other, or the oven just stays cool.
- Strange smells: A faint burnt odor often means the element is overheating or coating has burned off.
- Visible damage: Look for black spots, cracks, or a broken coil when the oven is cool.
- Breaker trips: If the circuit breaker flips each time you try to bake, the element may be short‑circuiting.
Spotting these clues early can save you a pricey replacement. In many cases the element is the only part that needs swapping.
DIY Checks Before You Call a Pro
Before you dial a technician, run through these simple steps. All of them can be done with a screwdriver, a multimeter and a bit of patience.
- Power reset: Turn off the oven at the wall, wait a minute, then switch it back on. Sometimes a tripped safety valve resets itself.
- Inspect the element: With the oven unplugged, remove the rear panel. Look for any visible breakage or discoloration.
- Test continuity: Set a multimeter to the ohm (Ω) setting. Touch the probes to each terminal on the element. A reading of infinite resistance means the element is broken; a low reading (usually 20‑50 Ω) is normal.
- Check the thermostat: If the element tests OK, the thermostat might be sending the wrong signal. Use the multimeter to verify it’s closing at the set temperature.
- Examine wiring: Loose or corroded connections can mimic a bad element. Tighten any loose screws and clean off oxidation.
If any of these checks reveal a faulty part, swapping the element is usually a straightforward job. Just make sure you buy the exact model number and follow the manufacturer’s wiring diagram.
When you’re not comfortable working with live wires, or if the breaker keeps tripping after you replace the element, it’s time to call a certified repair service. Bridgewater Appliance Fixers can safely handle high‑voltage work, test all related components, and get your oven back to baking in no time.
Remember, safety comes first. Always disconnect power before opening panels, and never force a broken element back into place. A short‑circuit can damage other parts and create a fire risk.
By running these quick checks you’ll either solve the problem yourself or have clear information to give a technician – which often speeds up the repair and keeps costs down. Got more questions? Our team in Bridgewater is ready to help with any oven, hob, or other appliance issue.

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