Fix problems with your oven or stove to avoid service calls.
Ovens and stoves are available as combination or independent units. All major manufacturers offer both gas and electric cooktops and ovens. Generally, these units work without any issues. If you do have a problem with your stove or oven, troubleshoot the issues before contacting the manufacturer for service. You can often repair common problems with your unit, saving you money on repair fees. Does this Spark an idea?
Stove/Oven Power
If your stove or oven won't turn on, verify that the power cord fits snugly in the outlet. Test the outlet with another appliance to see if it's working properly. If it's a gas oven/stove, turn the gas valve to the "On" position, and check that you have gas in your tank. Examine your household fuses and circuits. Turn the circuit breaker back on if it's tripped, and change out any black or burnt-out fuses. Open up the range, and look at the wires. Change out any frayed or broken wires.
Cooktop Issues
If the cooktop is not working properly, level the range by placing wood shims under the lower end. Always use the correct temperature setting and size of cookware for the burner. The cookware must be the same size or larger than the burner. Examine the burner. If it's a coil burner, and the coil is broken or scarred, replace it. Clean the burner, including the holes in the perimeter, if a gas burner won't light.
Baking Issues
Baking issues are commonly caused by incorrect pan or rack positions. If your food is burning on the bottom, move the rack to a higher position. Always use the correct pans and temperature settings for your food. If you own an electric oven, check the baking element if your oven won't bake, and replace it if defective. A defective baking element commonly has cracks, or it sparks. If you own a gas stove, check the bake igniter. It must produce a red flame that is extremely hot. If it doesn't light or the flame is weak, replace it. If your oven is always too hot or too cold, tweak the oven thermostat. The procedures for this solution vary by model. Read your oven manual for instructions.
Broiling Issues
Food too close to the broiling element may smoke or burn. Move the rack to a lower position. If your food smokes excessively, trim extra fat from meats. Always evenly distribute foods within your pans for more even cooking. Completely close the oven door and preheat the oven to reduce cooking times. If the oven is not broiling at all, check the heating element on an electric stove, and replace it if damaged. On a gas stove, examine the broil igniter, and replace if defective.
Tags: your oven, with your, your food, Always correct, baking element
