ApplianceErrors.com

Oven Won't Heat or Won't Reach Temperature: Causes and Fixes

An oven that won't heat usually has a failed bake element (electric), a weak igniter (gas), or a drifted oven temperature sensor. On electric ovens, look for a visibly broken or non-glowing element; on gas, watch whether the igniter glows but the burner never lights — a classic weak-igniter sign.

What to Check First

  1. 1

    Electric: watch the bake element — it should glow evenly orange; blistered, broken, or dark spots mean replace it.

  2. 2

    Gas: watch the igniter — if it glows but the burner doesn't light within 90 seconds, the igniter is too weak to open the gas valve.

  3. 3

    Test the oven temperature sensor: about 1,080–1,100Ω at room temperature; open or shorted = replace.

  4. 4

    Confirm the oven isn't in a delay-bake, Sabbath, or demo mode.

  5. 5

    Electric: a tripped 240V breaker leg can let the display work but kill the heating elements.

Error Codes for This Problem, by Brand

If your oven is showing an error code along with this symptom, find your brand below — each code links to its full fix guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my electric oven not heating up? +
A failed bake element is the most common cause — look for breaks or blisters, and confirm it glows when baking. Also check the oven temperature sensor and that both 240V breaker legs are on.
Why does my gas oven igniter glow but not light? +
A weak igniter is the classic gas-oven failure: it still glows but no longer draws enough current to open the safety gas valve. The igniter needs replacement — it's a common DIY part.
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