The noise your oven is making usually points to a few common culprits: a struggling cooling or convection fan, the natural expansion of metal heating up, or a failing electrical component.
However, when you go to turn the oven off and it starts to make a squeaking, rattling or grinding noise this is most likely indicating that there is a fault with the cooling fan itself. In most cases, you just need to clean the fan as it usually falls victim to grease and food buildup over the years.
A gas leak in your oven's gas supply is a serious concern that should be addressed without hesitation. You may notice a sulfur or “rotten egg” smell in or around your home, or hear a hissing sound.
Yes, it is perfectly normal for ovens to make noises while operating. Ovens cycle power to maintain temperatures and use fans to cool internal electronics, which naturally creates operational sounds.
An electric oven typically lasts between 13 to 15 years, though high-end models can reach up to 20 years with proper care. Its longevity depends heavily on frequency of use, how often you clean it, and how well you maintain the internal heating elements.
Gas ovens naturally produce several sounds during operation as components heat up, gas flows, and electronic systems regulate temperature. These are the most common normal noises and what causes them:
Decide Whether the Repair Cost Is Justified
If the repair cost is low, you will likely be better off paying for the repair even if your oven is older than 20 years. If your oven needs a $1,000 repair and it's over 15 years old, you're likely better off replacing the oven if replacement cost is less than $2,000.
Signs Your Oven Needs Replacing
If your oven has a temperature indicator light, you can use this to help determine whether the fault lies with the thermostat or the element when your oven isn't heating up properly. When you first turn the thermostat on, the light should come on and will turn off once the oven has reached the correct level.
Hissing or Whistling Sounds: Gas escaping a pipe under pressure often creates a hissing or whistling sound. The intensity depends on the size of the leak. Larger leaks might even produce a roaring sound. If you hear this, get out and don't hesitate!
Should I Repair or Replace my Oven? Oven repair costs range from $150 to $400, making repairs more affordable than replacement when your oven needs simple fixes or parts. You should replace your oven when repair costs exceed 50% of a new unit's value, especially if your appliance is over 15 years old.
Large methane leaks can cause explosions.
The distinctive rotten-egg odor comes from chemicals that gas companies add to the methane to make it easier to detect, since the gas is naturally odorless. Some people are much more sensitive to the smell than others, so it's not a foolproof warning for explosive risk.
If the noise starts as soon as you turn on the oven, the chances are high that the oven motor is faulty. So, how do you tell that the oven fan motor is problematic and needs replacement? The oven fan generates a lot of noise while working or it operates exceptionally slowly than it usually does.
To quickly determine if your oven element is broken, visually check for physical damage (like cracks or blisters). If it looks fine, use a multimeter to check the element's continuity or resistance (Ohms). A fully functional element will yield a reading, whereas a broken one will show no change on the display.
Yes, it is perfectly normal for a gas oven to make some noise. Sounds like whooshing, soft puffing, clicking, or gentle metallic popping are standard during preheating and baking. However, loud bangs or a constant hissing sound accompanied by a gas smell are red flags.
The average oven lasts between 13 to 15 years, though models with fewer complex electronic parts can last up to 20 years. Lifespan heavily depends on the type of appliance, brand quality, and how well it is maintained.
Here's what to watch out for.
An electric oven lifespan typically ranges from 13 to 15 years, provided it's well-maintained. By comparison, gas ovens tend to last slightly longer—about 15 to 17 years—due to their simpler mechanisms.
Always check your oven's documentation. Electrical work: If new wiring is required, you should hire a qualified electrician. Incorrect wiring can be dangerous and may violate building codes. Personal skill level: Only attempt the installation if you're confident in your DIY skills and understand the process fully.
Incorrect temperature: Calibrate the oven or replace a faulty thermostat. Oven won't turn on: Check power, then seek professional help for electrical or gas issues. Broken oven light: Replace bulbs or consult a pro for wiring issues. Door issues: Handle stuck or misaligned doors with expert repairs.
The Cost to Fix an Oven
Angi's reported that oven repair costs average around $350 as of 2022. However, the price varies based on the oven type and the part that needs repairing. Repairs on the lower end include fixing the thermostat, door switch, and gas valve.
To pinpoint your oven's noise, identify the sound it is making:
Signs of a carbon monoxide leak in your house or home
Sooty or brownish-yellow stains around the leaking appliance. Stale, stuffy, or smelly air, like the smell of something burning or overheating. Soot, smoke, fumes, or back-draft in the house from a chimney, fireplace, or other fuel burning equipment.
Whether you can safely use your oven depends on which fan is broken.