Your stove likely isn't working due to an electrical power interruption, a clogged burner, or a faulty heating element/igniter. Troubleshooting depends on whether you have a gas or electric model.
If your stove randomly stopped working, the issue usually stems from a power outage, a tripped circuit breaker, or a failed heating component. The cause depends slightly on whether you have an electric or gas range.
Electric stoves last an average of 10 to 15 years. Their lifespan depends on how often you cook, routine cleaning, and the complexity of the electronics. Simpler coil-burner models often outlast high-tech glass-top or smart ranges, which have more components that can fail.
Visually inspect the fuse to see if it has blown. The fusible link is visible through a glass window in the top. If the fuse is good, this link will be intact. If the fuse has blown due to an overload, this link will be visibly broken.
As with other appliances, the 50% Rule applies: if your appliance is over 50% of its expected lifespan, and it costs more than 50% of its replacement cost to repair it, you'd be well advised to replace it. You can expect most stoves or ovens to give good service for at least 15 years.
To reset a stove, perform a hard power reset: turn off the dedicated circuit breaker or unplug the appliance. Wait 3 to 5 minutes for residual charge to dissipate, then restore power. For gas stoves with smart safety plugs, locate the FireAvert device and reset it according to the FireAvert Gas Stove Guide.
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.
4 Common Electric Range Issues: Troubleshooting Tips
Between 5 and 10 years – Compare the cost of repairs to buying a new one. If the repair cost is more than half of a replacement, consider upgrading. Over 15 years – Replacing is usually the better long-term decision. For example, gas stoves should be replaced every 15 years to maintain safety and efficiency.
Stoves generally last 13 to 15 years, with gas models historically lasting slightly longer than electric due to fewer complex moving parts. However, overall reliability depends significantly on the model's simplicity and the manufacturer.
Replace your stove when it is 10 to 15 years old, if repair costs exceed 50% of a new model, or if you notice critical safety hazards like gas leaks, rust in the oven, or cracked glass.
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.
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.
Gas Stove Not Working?
Control Panel Problems
If your oven's buttons aren't responding or the display is flickering, the control panel may be failing. This is a common issue, especially in digital ovens. In most cases, a replacement control board or minor repair can bring your appliance back to full functionality.
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.
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 tell if a fuse is blown, safely remove it from the fuse box and perform a visual check, or use a multimeter for definitive results. A blown fuse means the internal metal link has melted and broken the circuit.
THE 80% Rule
For example, if a circuit breaker is rated for 100 amps, it should not be loaded with more than 80 amps of continuous load. This is because the circuit breaker may overheat and fail if it is loaded to its full capacity for extended periods of time.
A blown fuse needs to be repaired as soon as possible. We do not advise trying to change your circuit breakers or fuses yourself, as this can be a dangerous job and may even lead to short circuiting. Instead, enlist the help of a licensed and qualified emergency electrician for any electrical home repairs.
To get your stove working again, follow these quick diagnostic steps based on whether it is gas or electric.
The location of the reset button depends entirely on the device you are using. Because the exact item isn't specified, the most common reset methods are outlined below:
Start by unplugging the oven for 5 minutes to reset the control board. Inspect the power cord and outlet for stability. If the issue recurs, the electronic control board or touchpad may be faulty and require replacement.