The oven is the second most often used appliance in most homes, falling behind the refrigerator only in that respect. Even though the microwave has replaced the oven for many of the tasks it once performed, the conventional oven is still a key appliance. When things break on an oven it makes sense to first try and repair it yourself, both to save money and to keep the oven working like new. Here are some of the most common oven repairs home owners can make. Does this Spark an idea?
Door Handle Repairs
The oven door is constantly being opened and closed, so it's no wonder it often needs repair. It will frequently work loose and the door hinges will often become misaligned. To fix a door handle simply locate the hardware that attaches it to the oven door. Then loosen both screws with a Phillips head or slot-head screwdriver. Remove the bolts and replace them with new ones. Replace the washers and nuts (if any) and tighten to give the door a snug fit.
Door Hinges
To repair the hinges on an oven door you need to remove the door completely. A majority of ovens use a drop or slide hinge which is connected to the frame inside the oven walls. To get at these you will have to remove the side panels on most ovens by loosening the screws that attach the panels to the frame. In some cases you can lift up and pull out on the oven door to lift it off the hinges. Once removed, use a T-square or small carpenter's level to assess whether or not the hinges are bent. Bend them so they are straight once again, and then apply a small amount of WD-40 or grease to the hinge bolts on the door. Replace and the doors should work like new.
Elements
The elements on a typical oven today are electrically conductive pieces of wire that generate a large amount of heat when a current is conducted through them. Food, grease and other particles can collect on the oven elements and cause them to malfunction or not heat up at all. The best bet to fix these is to simply replace them. Elements can be purchased at a hardware or home appliance store. Match the elements to your make and model. Then to replace, turn off the oven and lightly pull the faulty element forward and out of the socket. Insert the new element into the socket and then test the oven by turning it back on.
Tags: oven door, replace them
