What Causes This Problem?
1. Burned-Out Bake or Broil Element (Electric)
The bake element is the coil at the bottom of the oven cavity. When it burns out, the oven won't reach temperature. A failed element is often visible — look for a break, blister, or burn mark on the coil. The broil element at the top can also fail, causing uneven baking.
2. Failed Igniter (Gas Ovens)
Gas oven igniters weaken over time. A weak igniter draws insufficient current to open the gas valve, so gas doesn't flow and the oven doesn't heat. The igniter may glow but the oven still won't ignite — replacement is the only fix.
3. Faulty Oven Temperature Sensor
The temperature sensor probe extends into the oven cavity and feeds temperature readings to the control board. A failed or out-of-calibration sensor causes erratic temperature — food burns or undercooks even at the correct setting.
4. Damaged Control Board
The electronic control board manages all oven functions. A failed relay on the board can prevent the heating element or igniter from receiving power. Control board failures are usually preceded by error codes on the display.
5. Broken Door Gasket
A damaged door seal lets heat escape, making the oven take longer to reach temperature and bake unevenly. Food near the door cooks more slowly. Inspect the gasket for tears or gaps.
🔧 Not sure what's wrong? Our technicians diagnose quickly — call for same-day service.
📞 (813) 553-2255Basic Troubleshooting Tips
Try these checks first. If none of them resolve the issue, it's time to call a professional.
- Use an inexpensive oven thermometer to verify the actual temperature — if it reads 50°F+ off from the set temperature, the sensor or calibration is the issue.
- For electric ovens: check if the broiler works. If it does but the bake function doesn't, the bake element is likely failed.
- For gas ovens: watch whether the igniter glows during the preheat cycle. If it glows but the burner doesn't light, the igniter is weak.
- Check the oven door gasket. If it's torn or compressed flat, heat is escaping and cooking will be uneven.
- Review any error codes on the display and note them before calling — they help technicians diagnose faster.
⚠️ When to Call a Professional
Bake element replacement is manageable for a confident DIYer. Gas oven repairs — including igniter and valve replacement — should always be done by a qualified technician. Don't attempt gas repairs yourself.
Need Professional Oven Repair in Tampa Bay?
AK Service Solutions provides same-day oven repair throughout Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Land O Lakes, Lutz, Brandon, Riverview, New Tampa, and Zephyrhills.