Oven not heating: causes for gas and electric ovens, and repair cost
Cold oven, burners fine — or it heats but never reaches temperature. Five parts explain almost every case.
Electric oven: a burnt bake element (look for blistering or a break in the coil) or a failed temperature sensor are the top two causes; a bad relay board comes third. Gas oven: a weak igniter that glows but never opens the gas valve is by far the most common — it accounts for most gas-oven no-heat calls. Both are routine repairs at $150–$350.
Which symptom do you have? Quick checks and what they mean
Safe checks only — anything involving line voltage, gas or refrigerant is for the technician.
| What you see | What it usually means | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Electric: element does not glow | Bake element open or relay not powering it. | Call |
| Electric: glows but temperature wrong | Temperature sensor, control calibration. | Call |
| Gas: igniter glows 60+ seconds, no flame | Weak igniter (most common) or gas safety valve. | Call |
| Gas: no glow at all | Igniter failed open, thermal fuse, control. | Call |
| Heats but bakes unevenly | Sensor, convection fan, door gasket, or one element out. | Call |
What each repair typically costs
| Repair | Typical cost (parts + labor) |
|---|---|
| Bake element (electric) | $150 – $300 |
| Temperature sensor | $120 – $250 |
| Igniter (gas) | $150 – $320 |
| Gas safety valve | $200 – $380 |
| Relay / control board | $200 – $450 |
| Convection fan motor | $150 – $300 |
Repair or replace?
Repair if the quote is under half the price of a comparable new unit and the appliance is not near the end of its typical lifespan. The repair-or-replace calculator gives a quick answer for your appliance and age.
What happens when you call
Brand, model, what it does and does not do — two minutes.
An independent repair company covering your ZIP code.
Visit fee confirmed up front; repair on approval, often the same visit.
Common questions
The burners work but the oven does not — why?
They use separate parts. On a gas range the oven has its own igniter and valve; on electric the oven element and relay are separate from the cooktop switches. A dead oven with working burners is normal for these faults.
Gas oven igniter glows — so it is fine?
No. Igniters weaken with age; they glow but do not draw enough current to open the valve. It is the classic gas-oven repair.
Can I replace an oven element myself?
Some people do — it is two screws and a plug — but it is 240V and models differ. If in doubt, the visit is inexpensive.
Same-day oven repair?
Often, especially for elements and igniters. Availability for your ZIP is confirmed when you call.
Published 2026-09-22 · Updated 2026-09-22