Do you cook?
Does my oven need to be serviced?
Undoubtedly, your oven is one of the major appliances in your home. One that is used often, and if it fails you when you need it the most, like in times of family or friends gatherings. An oven malfunction can ruin any holiday or special event you may be hosting. That is why prevention is critical. True, it may not be easily noticeable if your oven fails to fulfill its task. However, some indicators can tell you a professional check-up may be needed soon. Some signals that your oven is not working correctly are:
Electrical Issues
Even if you have a gas oven, many electrical components are present in modern ovens like yours. If you notice your oven is struggling with electrical issues is when you find it difficult to turn it on or off or power fluctuations. It is very likely your oven has electrical problems. However, it is never advisable to handle any electrical issues by yourself. It is better to contact a certified technician to address the issue adequately
Uneven Cooking
Although you may think you haven’t mastered your cooking skills yet may result in uneven cooking, it can be a sign that your oven needs a check-up. If you notice your dishes coming out of the oven uncooked in some places and burned in others, it may indicate that your oven is not working correctly. It is a clear sign that your oven needs repair.
Oven Door Problems
If you find it difficult to open or close your oven door, it may be a signal of a problem with the door’s hinges. Although not the worst issue you can encounter, it can prevent your food from cooking properly. However, this is an easy-to-resolve issue in professional hands.
Incorrect Cooking
Another clear sign that your oven needs proper maintenance and repair is when all your dishes cooked in the oven come out either undercooked or overcooked. You may be tempted to think that your cooking skills are failing you, but in reality, it is a problem that needs professional attention. Your oven may be in need of maintenance, repair, or replacement.
Gas Complications
Some will argue that cooking in a gas oven is better than in an electrical one. However, your preference may be, if you have a gas oven, you must pay attention to any signal of a gas leak in your range. Sometimes the gas exhaust gets confused for gas fumes, and there may be no issue with your gas oven. Nevertheless, if you smell gas in your oven or stove, you should promptly close the gas line and wait some time. If the smell persists after you turn back the gas, you must contact a professional to look at the potential issue. A throughout inspection of your gas line and oven is a must.
Your Oven Takes More time Preheating
There is no standard time that all ovens take to preheat. It depends on the brand, setup, or age. But if you notice a difference between the time your oven used to take to preheat before and now, it may indicate a problem that needs professional care.
Added to the fact of being vigilant over signs that your oven may be in need of repair, maintenance, or replacement. You can also help to prolong the life of your appliance by following these tips:
Do A Regular Oven Cleaning
Depending on how often you use your oven, it is recommended to do a cleaning either every couple of months or twice a year. Spills inside your oven while preparing food are common and may go unnoticed initially. However, the accumulation of old cooked dishes dripping may affect the performance of your oven. Added to the fact that leftover food stuck on the bottom or walls of your oven that is constantly being reheated will affect the smell and taste of your latest cooked dishes. You can also clean the oven racks from any residues.
Don’t Overstuff Your Oven
Although you may be tempted to overload your oven to cook more at once, you may cause your oven to malfunction and put your appliance, home, family, and yourself at risk of fire. The heat your oven produces while cooking needs to circulate, and it can’t do it if all the racks are full. Instead, you can cook in batches and keep the food warm by covering it with foil or a lid and placing it on top of the stovetop. This way, you can still achieve your cooking goals safely.
Don’t Remove or Get Your Oven Knobs Wet
You probably would like to clean your oven and stove thoroughly. And think it would be a good idea to remove the knobs for some deep cleaning. However, your oven knobs are connected to the electrical system that controls your oven. If you remove them, you can get electrocuted.
Same way, avoid getting any cleaning products or other liquids such as water into the oven knobs. Contact with fluids can cause a short circuit. Make sure to unplug the oven while cleaning it. You can clean your oven and knobs with a dry microfiber cloth or slightly damp rag.
Check the Oven Gaskets And Door Locking System
A damaged gasket or defective oven door can affect your oven performance. Both components are made to keep the heat inside. If they are not fulfilling their function, heat will escape, which will affect your cooking time. Therefore if you notice either the gasket, door, or both not working, replace them. Remember that heat escaping also makes your oven work harder.
Check For Gas Leaks
Checking your gas line for possible leaks is vital. It is recommended that if you are getting a new oven, you will also update or get a new gas line to minimize the possibility of a gas leak. You can use an electronic leak detector to inspect your gas line. However, if you believe you may have a leak, close the gas flow immediately, ventilate your home by opening the windows and contact your gas company. Later seek professional help to replace the faulty gas line.
Use Your Oven Self-Cleaning Feature Correctly
Most modern ovens nowadays have a self-cleaning feature. However, it is essential to make use of it appropriately to benefit your oven performance. Read your manual or contact the manufacturer to know how to proceed before you start using the feature, and it should not be performed more than twice a year. Also, after the self-cleaning, unplug your oven and wait about six hours to wipe the interior with a mixture of white vinegar and water. Before plugging the oven back, allow it to dry with the door open for a few hours. Remember never to leave your house while the self-cleaning feature is running.
Contact our reliable, professional team of experts if you notice any oven issues. They are ready to assist you: 778-941-7758