Will a new oven element smoke?

Author: Cristobal Turcotte MD  |  Last update: Wednesday, April 23, 2025

This is because the heating element inside the oven has an oil-based factory coating that produces smoke as it begins to burn off during the first few uses. This is nothing to worry about and completely normal however it is best to avoid the food that you are cooking when the oven is smoking as it won't taste great!

Why is my oven smoking after replacing element?

It's normal to see smoke during the first one or two uses of a brand new oven since the heating element inside many modern ovens has an oil based factory coating that produces smoke as it gradually burns off. Once you've burned in the oven, you should no longer notice smoke during future uses.

Is it normal for a new heating element to smoke?

Yes, it is common for new heating elements, including heat bands, to emit a small amount of smoke or a burning smell when they are first used. This is often due to the presence of manufacturing oils, dust, or residues that burn off during the initial heating.

How long does it take to burn in a new oven element?

Turn on the fan in the ventilation hood and, if possible, open a few nearby windows. Set the oven to high heat, between 400 to 550 degrees Fahrenheit (204 to 288 degrees Celsius). Let the oven run at this temperature for between 30 minutes and an hour.

Is it normal for a brand new oven to smoke?

It's normal to see smoke during the first one or two uses of a brand new oven since the heating element inside many modern ovens has an oil based factory coating that produces smoke as it gradually burns off. Once you've burned in the oven, you should no longer notice smoke during future uses.

Why is My New Stove Smoking?

How long does it take a new oven to stop smoking?

If your oven is new, it may be burning off the factory coating. Smoke and odor will dissipate after running an empty cavity for approximately 60 minutes. In some cases, 2 or 3 repetitions of this process may be required to fully dissipate.

Will a new oven heating element smell?

There is often a burning smell on new elements as grease is burnt off the surface, this soon clears.

How to break in a new oven element?

Preheat and Maintain: Set the oven to a relatively high temperature, around 200°C (400°F), and let it run empty for about an hour. This process helps burn off any manufacturing residues and odorous compounds. Cool Down: Allow the oven to cool down completely before cleaning the interior with a damp cloth.

Why does my brand new oven smell like burning plastic?

Your new oven may smell like burnt plastic when you first turn it on due to chemicals and other protective coatings in your oven cavity being exposed to heat for the first time. The odor caused by the heating of new parts should dissipate after the first few uses.

What to do after replacing oven element?

Testing the Replacement Element
  1. Restore power to the oven and put the racks back in. ...
  2. Test the new baking coil by setting it to "bake." Turn on the oven and set it to “bake” or “convection,” depending on which element you've replaced, and give it a few minutes to warm up. ...
  3. Watch for smoking.

Is it normal to smell burning after replacing a heating element?

It just means there's dust in your heating unit, which is harmless and should burn off quickly. If you smell an electrical burning smell, on the other hand, this is not normal at all. It could be a sign of a serious electrical issue that could lead to a fire.

Why is there smoke coming out of my oven?

Sometimes the heating elements in an oven can wear out. In an electric oven, if the bottom heating element doesn't activate during the bake setting, or the top element doesn't turn on during the broil setting, the element may no longer function properly. As the heating elements are burning out, you might see smoke.

Can a bad heating element cause a fire?

If it fails, it can cause the elements to malfunction. A faulty limit control, which prevents overheating, can also lead to heating element issues. Dust and debris accumulation is another factor that can affect the heating element, leading to inefficiency and potential fire hazards.

What to do if oven element catches fire?

If the fire is inside your oven, all you have to do is to turn off the power and wait it out. If the fire is on your stove, there are a few things you can do to extinguish it. One is to clamp a pot or pan cover over it to snuff it out. Another is to smother it in a generous amount of baking soda.

How do I know if my oven element is blown?

The element has blown. There are bright spots or uneven patches on the element when the cooker is in use. The oven trips the electricity when the element is turned on but may work using another i.e. Grill.

Can I cook in a new oven right away?

Odor and smoke when you turn on an oven for the first time is normal and not harmful. The best way to eliminate the smell is to run an empty cycle. It is recommended that you do not cook any food before this cycle as the smell and, potentially, the taste can stick with your food.

Do new ovens smoke on first use?

A small amount of smoke or odor from your new oven is not uncommon during the first few times the oven is used. This is caused by the heating of new parts, insulating materials, or the tape used in shipping. This is applicable to both gas and electric ovens. The smoke or odor should dissipate after the first few uses.

How long does it take to burn off the smell of a new oven?

Here is what you need to do to burn off a new oven smell: Turn on the ventilation fan and open nearby windows. Set the oven to 200-250C and leave it for 30 mins. Turn the heat off and let the oven cool down.

Is it safe to use an oven after burning plastic?

Because melted plastic can release gases like benzene, dioxins, and toluene into the air — which can be damaging to the respiratory and nervous systems, according to the National Library of Medicine — it's imperative that the plastic is removed before the oven is turned on again.

Do you need to burn off a new oven element?

New ovens may have a pungent smell on first use. This is not a fault with the oven and is usual because factory residues may need to be cooked off the elements or hot plates. Before you use your oven for the first time you will need to 'burn off' the 'newness' smell.

Why does my oven smell like burning plastic and smoking?

A small amount of smoke or odor can be normal, especially when a new range or oven is used. It is caused by the heating of new parts, insulating materials, a protective coating of oil that is used in the manufacturing process, and/or the tape used in shipping, and should dissipate after the first few uses.

Is it safe to change an oven element yourself?

Most oven heating elements last quite a few years, but just like any other appliance part, eventually they wear out or can break if something falls onto them. No need to panic. Thankfully, replacing your oven's element is a simple repair to make, as you only need a screwdriver.

Why is my oven smoking after changing element?

This is because the heating element inside the oven has an oil-based factory coating that produces smoke as it begins to burn off during the first few uses. This is nothing to worry about and completely normal however it is best to avoid the food that you are cooking when the oven is smoking as it won't taste great!

How long does it take for burnt plastic smell to go away?

After cleaning and neutralizing the odor, it's essential to give the area enough time to air out. Keep windows and doors open to push that burning plastic smell outside, if possible, and allow fresh air to circulate for a few hours or even overnight. This will help ensure that any remaining odor dissipates completely.

Why is my oven smoking while preheating?

The most likely cause of a smoking oven is spills and debris from past use. These drops of grease and food bits heat up and burn, resulting in smoke and odors. They could be anywhere inside the oven, including the racks, so if this is the cause of your smoke issues, it's time for a good cleaning.

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