When the bottom element isn't working but the top is, it usually means the bottom heating element (the bake element) has burned out or broken. Other possible causes include loose or burnt wiring, a faulty control board relay, or a defective thermal fuse.
If your top oven works but the bottom does not, you are likely dealing with a failed bake element, a tripped thermal fuse, or a bad control board relay.
If your oven's bottom bake element isn't heating, it's typically caused by a burnt-out heating coil, loose wiring, or a faulty control board. The repair usually involves turning off the power, testing the element with a multimeter, and swapping it out for a replacement.
A blown oven thermal fuse is a built-in safety mechanism designed to cut power if the appliance overheats. The most common symptoms include an oven that fails to heat up, a completely dead display console, or an oven that shuts off mid-cycle and won't turn back on.
The average lifespan of a heating element is about 5 to 10 years, but this can vary widely based on usage. Ovens that are used frequently, especially for high-temperature cooking like broiling, may see the element fail sooner. Power surges and a buildup of food residue can also shorten its lifespan.
Replacing an oven heating element typically costs between $𝟏𝟐𝟎 and $𝟑𝟓𝟎 in total, depending on whether you do it yourself or hire a professional. If you replace the part yourself, the element costs between $𝟐𝟎 and $𝟓𝟎, while professional labor generally adds $𝟖𝟎 to $𝟐𝟎𝟎.
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.
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.
Replacing an oven thermal fuse costs between $10 and $30 for the part itself. If you hire a professional appliance technician, expect the total cost to range from $100 to $350 for parts and labor. The exact price depends heavily on your oven's make, model, and the accessibility of the fuse.
If the fuse has blown due to an overload, this link will be visibly broken. If the link is broken and the glass window is also blackened, this indicates a short circuit. In either case, the problem that caused the blown fuse MUST be identified and corrected before installing a new fuse of the correct amperage rating.
Bake element
Your oven's bake element is the main heat source for most oven functions. Located at the bottom of the oven, the bake element is also frequently used for the self-cleaning feature in self-cleaning ovens.
To tell if a lower heating element (in a water heater or an oven) is bad, look for symptoms like lukewarm water, short hot water cycles, or tripping breakers. The most accurate method is to test the element's continuity and resistance using a multimeter.
There are some ovens that do not have a separate heating element from their grill function, so you might also find the jagged top symbol as an alternate. This means only the top part will be radiating heat. Top Heat Only is perfect for browning dishes and performing rotisserie function.
The life expectancy of an oven varies depending on the type of oven you own. The life expectancy of an electric oven is around 13 - 15 years. The life expectancy of a gas oven is around 15 years. The life expectancy of a dual-fuel oven is also around 15 years.
Yes, replacing an oven element is almost always worth it. It is an inexpensive fix that usually costs between $15 and $50 for the part, saving you from spending hundreds or thousands on a brand-new appliance. It is highly recommended if your oven is under 10 years old, or if the part is visibly damaged and the wiring behind it is fine.
The rule of thumb is that if repair costs exceed 50% of the price to install a new oven, you should buy a new oven instead of replacing it. For example, if your oven costs $2,000 but costs $1,500 to repair, you could use that $1,500 for a new and improved oven.
You could be looking at a faulty oven heating element. However, there's no need to panic – this is a simple, straightforward repair that you can complete yourself, with no need for a professional. In this article, we will explain how to change the oven heating element and how to tell if it's broken in the first place.
When your oven is over 20 years old, you'll likely want to replace it when it needs a repair costing more than $500. After 20 years, replacement parts often start becoming scarce and the oven may continue to have failures as additional parts begin to wear out.
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 Element Shows Signs of Wear
Keep an eye out for burns or scorch marks, which suggest the element has overheated at some point. Blistering on the surface indicates wear from excessive heat or age. Cracks or breaks in the element are a sure sign it's time for a replacement.
The most reliable oven brands generally include GE Appliances (including GE Profile and Café), LG, and Bosch. These brands consistently score highest in customer satisfaction and require the fewest repair service calls compared to the industry average.
Most ovens have 2 heating elements—one on top for the broiler and one on the bottom for the oven. You can test either element, but you must remove it from the appliance.