Ovens are one of the most important kitchen appliances that allow you to consume warm meals. Like other electric appliances, ovens tend to run into problems such as not turning off. This could quickly turn into a frustrating issue especially if you want to get several meals ready. Sometimes, you have the only option to consult an appliance repair technician. However, you should not panic. We will share a few tips on how to troubleshoot an oven that fails to turn off.
Knobs, Dials And Buttons
The first thing you need to do if your oven is not turning off is inspect the knobs, dials, and buttons. Sometimes, dirt, dust, and grime accumulation impede the functioning of such components and might not allow the unit to turn off. The best way to fix the issue is by removing all the gunk inside the controls.
Before you begin the cleaning process, make sure to unplug and disconnect the unit from the main power source. Plus, the unit should not be hot. If it is, let it cool down first and then you can begin cleaning it. Grab the user manual and follow the instructions to remove the knobs, dials, and buttons.
If the unit happens to be old, be extra careful as the knobs, dials, and buttons may be sensitive. Use a soft toothbrush or any other cleaning item to access the narrow areas. Once you are done cleaning, reattach the components and try turning them on and off the unit.
While cleaning, also inspect the knobs, dials, and buttons for cracks and damages. If that is the case, it might prevent the unit from communicating or following instructions properly. And plus, opt for the exact replacements for the unit.
Control Board
The control board is the mother of all components inside the oven. It serves as the brain of the unit and receives commands from the user. When you adjust the temperature or the duration of the warming process, it is the control board that follows the instructions.
These are electrical components that last several years before giving up. Plus, control boards need a solid reason for replacement. In most cases, they wear out due to electric surges. Furthermore, there is also a chance that the control board becomes filled with soot and debris that causes it to overheat or miscommunicate.
To fix the issue, you will need to access the control board. Then again, consult the user manual to remove the unit’s cover and other parts. Once accessed, use a soft cleaning tool and liquid to remove the accumulation.
Keep in mind that you have to be extremely careful here as even a minor mistake can cost you the entire control board and they do not come cheap. Check the board for damage as well. If you spot any unusual signs, you will need to get it repaired and replaced.
Relay Board
The relay board is responsible for controlling and regulating the voltage in the oven’s heating element. The control board sends electrical signals to the relay board, which starts or stops the flow of electricity to the oven’s heating coils. If the relay board happens to be faulty, the control board will not be able to communicate with the relay board.
On the other hand, the relay board will not be able to receive signals from the control board. This means the relay board is broken and will need to be replaced. Simply access the unit by removing the outer parts. Remove the current relay board and replace it with a new one. Test the oven to see if it is working perfectly.
If the situation does not get fixed, you will need to consult an expert as the problem might be a bit more complicated.
Thermostat
A thermostat is another electronic component that keeps track of the temperature inside the oven. Once the unit has achieved the desired temperature the thermostat commends the control board to limit or stop the flow of electricity or gas. As a result, it tells the heating coils to stop heating.
If the unit happens to be old, it is likely that the extreme temperatures have caused the thermostat to malfunction. A sure sign that a thermostat has given up is the oven will fail to turn off. In this case, the thermostat will not communicate with the control board and will confuse the oven.
As a result, the oven will continue running now knowing that it has already achieved the desired temperature because the thermostat is not sending any signals. It could also be that the thermostat has lost its calibration.
To inspect the thermostat, you will need to access it and use a multimeter to check for continuity. If the device shows a negative reading, it means the thermostat will need replacement.
Depending on the make, model, and variant of the oven, it might be a bit difficult to replace the thermostat. So, either consult the user manual or an expert.
Thermostat issues are common in many appliances. Many times, a refrigerator is not cooling or not working due to a faulty thermostat. However, it should be inspected and replaced by a refrigerator repair Alexandria expert.
Bake Element
The bake element is responsible for heating up the air inside the oven. If the oven fails to turn off, the bake element will overheat to the point where it will glow red. This could damage the heating element beyond repair and might even start a fire in the worst-case scenario.
To troubleshoot the issue, you will need to turn off the oven and inspect the bake element for any damages. Make sure to access the element when the oven is cool. If the element happens to be broken, you will need to fix it.
Purchase a new replacement from the manufacturer and replace the existing one with it. Test the oven for proper functioning.
Broil Element
The broil element is similar to the heating element except for the fact that it is installed in the ceiling of the oven. If the broil element tends to malfunction, it might not allow the oven to turn off. Then again, you will need to access the element for inspection.
Such elements cannot be repaired and only be replaced. However, check the element using a multimeter. If it shows a negative reading, it means there is something wrong with it, and will need replacement.
Should I Replace My Oven If It Won’t Shut Off?
Electric ovens have a lifespan of up to 10 to 15 years if they are maintained properly. It is normal for electric appliances to run into problems and that does not mean you should replace your existing one every time. However, if the oven is old and regularly breaks down, you need to consider a replacement.
There is no point in spending money on expensive repairs and replacements, you can simply save that money and buy a new oven. A unit older than 10 years is not worth putting in the time, effort, and money.
Conclusion
An oven not turning off demands immediate attention. Follow the tips mentioned above to identify and kickstart the issue. However, you should also have an oven repair Northern VA expert on your side to help you with complicated issues. Plus, make sure to maintain the oven to prevent both minor and major problems down the road.