Appliance Broken
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Gas oven not working
By Peter Boysen
Lets fix this
A gas oven can help you save on your power bill. But, a gas oven not working isn’t going to help you in any way. Check out our troubleshooting guide for a look at what you can do to correct a host of gas oven problems.
WARNING: Always shut off the gas supply before attempting repairs. Each gas appliance should have its own shutoff valve within easy reach. You can also turn off the main gas supply to your entire home, but note that if you take this step, most regions require that your utility company turn it back on.
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Problems |
Possible causes |
What to do |
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Oven won't get hot |
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1. Sometimes large drafts or dips in gas pressure can cause the pilot light to go out and it will need to be relighted. Most gas ovens today, however, do not have a traditional pilot light ignition system; they use an electronic glow bar to ignite the gas. But if your oven is old, a pilot light could be the problem.
A glow bar igniter is part of a sealed system, so if you suspect it is broken, you'll need to call for professional repair help. Read more about glow bar ignition systems. |
Bake setting won't work |
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Valves control the flow of gas to the oven, and an igniter does what its name implies—ignites the gas. Hire an oven repair specialist to test and fix. Note: Some ovens use two igniters, one for baking and the other for broiling. The two act independently from each other. |
Neither baking nor broiling, but the range works |
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1. Sometimes the problem can be as simple as the incorrect setting on an oven clock (e.g., set for timed cooking or self-cleaning). To reset the clock:
Tampering can void some warranties and you can damage other components by disassembling the oven to access these parts, so arrange for an oven repair professional to examine and repair or replace them as needed. |
Inconsistent temperature |
Worn or defective door gasket |
If you feel heat escaping from around your oven door while you cook, it is time for a new gasket, or seal. Replacement is easy if you have a friction-fit variety that sits in the channel of the door frame. To replace door gasket:
If your gasket is a 2-part variety that is mounted within the front and back sections of the door, you'll need professional repair help to replace it. |
Temperature consistent, but too high or too low |
Thermostat calibration is off |
Place an oven thermometer on the center rack of a 350ºF oven for about 20 minutes. If the thermometer reads more than 25 degrees higher or lower, you may need to have your electronic thermostat recalibrated or replaced. To recalibrate your thermostat:
Depending on your oven:
Have an oven repair service professional replace or adjust the thermostat for you if you are not comfortable handling these parts. |
Oven light won't turn on |
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1. To change the light bulb:
Most ovens have a switch somewhere near or on the door that turns on the oven light. Have a qualified professional test the switch and install a new one if necessary. |
Oven door won't close |
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1. Your oven door hinges may have warped if you rested a heavy weight on the door. Or the hinges may simply have become worn or warped with time. To confirm warping is the problem:
Note: It's a good idea to replace both hinges at the same time to keep the door balanced.
2. If the door isn't latching correctly:
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Nothing turns on |
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If your gas oven has any electrical features at all—even just a light—it needs electricity to function. Your home may use circuit breakers or fuses to control the power to your home.
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Control panel indicator light(s) out |
Faulty bulb or lighting assembly |
If the indicator light isn't working, you will usually need to replace the entire light assembly. Arrange for oven service. In some cases, though, you may be able to fix the problem by replacing the bulb. Most oven indicator lights can be accessed by using a screwdriver to take off the panel, but check your owner's manual to be sure. Replacement bulbs can usually be ordered through your oven manufacturer. |
Not self-cleaning |
Malfunction in self-cleaning system |
Self-cleaning systems are complex, so we recommend you have an oven repair pro get your self-cleaning system working properly again. |
Still seeking a solution? Schedule oven repair service with a qualified professional.
Repair or replace?
Despite all they can do, gas ovens are not extremely complex, so repair is usually a viable option unless multiple systems are failing.
Not only that, gas ovens last a whopping 19 years on average. That's a long life, but if yours is nearing the end of it, it may be time to consider a replacement, especially if you've had your eye on a new model.
If you decide to buy new, expect to spend anywhere between $500-$2,000, depending on the features and size you want.
Of course, if you love your old oven and it has been working well until its recent problem, or you have a high-end model, you'll have more incentive to consider repair.
Service pro's plea: If in doubt, stay out. Don't risk causing more damage to your product (or yourself!) by attempting to fix it on your own. It's also easier and quicker for a service technician to diagnose and fix a problem when the product is assembled. In the end, you'll save time and money.
Peter Boysen
Peter has been teaching since 1996 and writing professionally since 2003. Specializing in writing on education and home repair, he has written for ON Magazine, Prestwick House and Bright Hub, among others. He has also completed 15 marathons, thanks to the patience of his wife and 4 children, and is feverishly finishing his first novel.