Ovens, ranges & cooktops
Oven won't heat, or heats unevenly
Electric and gas ovens fail in different ways, so start by noting which you have and whether the problem is no heat at all, slow heat, or wrong temperature.
- Proudly CanadianOttawa-based team
- BBB accreditedRepairWell, our operator
- 15+ yearsin appliance repair
- Insured technicianslicensed for gas work
- Satisfaction guaranteed90-day warranty on replaced parts
- Free diagnosticwhen you go ahead with the repair
Safe checks before you book
- Settings. Make sure a delay start, timed bake or Sabbath mode isn't set. Some ovens also lock out after a power cut until the clock is set.
- Electric: look at the elements. With the oven off and cool, look at the bake element on the floor of the oven and the broil element at the top. A break, a blister or a burnt spot means the element has failed.
- Gas: watch the igniter. Through the window or the broiler drawer, watch the igniter after you turn the oven on. It should glow bright orange and the burner should light within about a minute.
- Check the temperature. An inexpensive oven thermometer on the middle rack shows whether it is a few degrees off or badly wrong.
Unplug first. Switch off power (and close the water or gas supply where it applies) before looking behind or inside an appliance. If anything feels unsafe, stop and call.
What usually causes it
| Bake or broil element | On electric ovens, a burnt-out element is the most common cause. |
|---|---|
| Gas igniter | A weak igniter glows but doesn't draw enough current to open the gas valve. Very common on gas ovens. |
| Temperature sensor | A sensor out of range makes the oven run too hot or too cool. |
| Control board or relay | Less common, and confirmed by testing before replacement. |
When to stop and call
You smell gas: leave the building and call 911 or Enbridge Gas from outside. Don't use the oven, light switches or phones inside.

What the visit costs
The diagnostic is free when you approve the repair and it's completed. You get the cause, the parts, labour and total in writing before any work. If you don't go ahead, it's $89 + tax for a home electric appliance, or $149 + tax for a gas appliance.