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ErrBase

Oven Not Heating Up: Causes and Fix

Quick Answer

On an electric oven, a cracked or burned-out bake element is the most common cause. On a gas oven, a weak igniter that glows but never lights the burner is usually to blame. Both parts cost $20 to $50 and take about 30 minutes to swap.

When your oven will not heat up, the most likely culprit on an electric model is a burned-out bake element, which you can spot by looking for visible cracks, blisters, or burn holes. On a gas oven, the igniter is the usual suspect: if it glows orange but never triggers the gas valve to open, it has weakened and needs replacement.

GenericOvenSeverity: highDifficulty: intermediate85% DIY Success
Time to Fix
20–60 min
Difficulty
intermediate
Parts Cost
$5 – $45
Tools Needed
Multimeter, Phillips screwdriver

What Does the SYMPTOM Code Mean?

Electric ovens rely on two resistance elements (bake on the bottom, broil on top) to generate heat. When the bake element fails, the oven may still broil but cannot bake. Gas ovens use a hot-surface igniter that must reach a specific amperage before the safety valve releases gas. A weak igniter glows but never gets hot enough to open the valve, so you see a glow with no flame. Both scenarios are among the most common oven repairs and are well within reach for a DIYer with a multimeter.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

Burned-out bake element (electric) or weak igniter (gas)50%
Blown thermal fuse cutting power to the element20%
Faulty temperature sensor sending wrong readings15%
Defective control board not sending voltage10%
Gas safety valve stuck closed (gas ovens only)5%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • Oven does not reach the set temperature after preheating
  • Electric oven: bake element does not glow red
  • Gas oven: igniter glows orange but burner never lights
  • Food comes out raw or severely undercooked

Can you reset a Generic oven to clear the SYMPTOM code?

Turn off the oven at the breaker for 60 seconds, then turn it back on. Set the oven to 350 degrees and wait 15 minutes. If it still does not heat, proceed with the diagnostic steps below.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

MultimeterPhillips screwdriverQuarter-inch nut driverWork gloves

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Visually inspect the bake element (electric) or igniter (gas)

For electric ovens, open the door and look at the bake element on the bottom of the oven cavity. Check for visible cracks, blisters, holes, or spots where the metal has separated. If you see damage, the element needs replacement. For gas ovens, turn the oven to 350 and watch the igniter through the bottom vent or by removing the oven floor panel. A healthy igniter glows bright orange-white and the gas lights within 60 seconds. If it glows dim orange for over 90 seconds without gas igniting, the igniter is too weak.

2

Test the bake element or igniter with a multimeter

3

Check the thermal fuse for continuity

4

Test the oven temperature sensor

ComponentComponent Under Test
Expected Range20–50 ohms
ConditionIf Open (OL) or infinite, replace component.

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
Universal Oven Bake ElementWB44K5012 · $15–$35
Gas Oven Igniter (flat style)WB13K21 · $20–$45
Oven Thermal FuseWP3196548 · $5–$15

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $25 (Parts) vs $1000 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my oven work on broil but not bake?
The broil element (top) and bake element (bottom) are separate heating loops. If broil works but bake does not, the bake element itself has failed. Check it visually for cracks or test it with a multimeter for 20 to 50 ohms resistance.
How much does it cost to fix an oven that will not heat?
A bake element runs $15 to $35 and takes about 20 minutes to swap. A gas igniter costs $20 to $45. If the control board is the issue, the part alone runs $100 to $250, and at that price you may want a professional to confirm the diagnosis before ordering.
Can a power surge stop my oven from heating?
Yes. A surge can blow the thermal fuse or damage the electronic control board. If the oven stopped working during a storm or after a breaker trip, check the thermal fuse first since it is a cheap and easy part to test and replace.

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 16, 2026