If your oven is cool when it should be hot, the heating element is the usual suspect. A faulty element means no heat, uneven cooking, or a flickering glow. Before you panic or splurge on a new oven, see if the element can be diagnosed and replaced yourself.
Elements are metal coils that turn electric power into heat. Over time they can burn out, crack, or get coated with food residue. Power surges, frequent overheating, or just age can cause the coil to break. When it does, the oven will either stay cold or show a faint red glow that never gets hot enough.
First, unplug the oven or switch off the circuit breaker. Remove the back panel or the bottom cover to access the element. Use a multimeter set to continuity. Touch the probes to the element’s terminals – a steady beep means the coil is still good. No beep? The element is broken and needs a replacement.
While you have it open, inspect for visible cracks or burnt spots. Even a small break can stop the flow of electricity. If you spot damage, note the part number printed on the element; you’ll need the exact match when you order a new one.
Most ovens use a standard 6‑amp or 8‑amp element, which you can buy from local appliance stores or online. Prices in Nuneaton range from £30 to £70, depending on brand. Keep the old element handy – it helps the retailer confirm the right fit.
To replace, unscrew the mounting brackets, disconnect the wiring, and take out the old coil. Hook up the new element the same way, secure the brackets, and re‑assemble the panel. Turn the power back on and run a quick bake test at 180°C for 10 minutes. If the oven heats evenly, you’ve solved the problem.
But what if you’re not comfortable working with electricity? A broken element is a common repair, and a qualified Nuneaton technician can swap it in under an hour. The call‑out fee is usually around £50, plus the part cost. It’s cheaper than a full oven replacement and gets you cooking again fast.
Some signs that you should definitely call a pro: the oven won’t turn on at all, the element looks scorched, or you notice a strong burning smell. Also, if the oven is still under warranty, tampering with it yourself could void the coverage.
In a pinch, you can use a microwave or a stovetop for a single meal, but that’s just a stop‑gap. A working oven element is essential for roasts, casseroles, and baked treats. Regular maintenance – wiping spills, avoiding metal pans that can scratch the coil – helps lengthen the element’s life.
Bottom line: a broken oven element is a fixable issue for most homes in Nuneaton. Test it with a multimeter, replace it yourself if you’re handy, or call a local repair expert for a quick, affordable solution. Either way, you’ll have your oven back to full heat in no time.
If your oven isn't heating up like it used to, you might be dealing with a broken element. This guide breaks down the tell-tale signs of a faulty oven element and provides simple tips on how to confirm and fix the issue. With basic troubleshooting and safety advice, this article helps you navigate oven woes with ease. By understanding common symptoms and solutions, you'll be better prepared to handle this common household problem.