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Cooking can be a therapeutic and satisfying experience. There is something magical about the aroma of a home cooked meal. But, what happens when your oven decides to misbehave?
One of the most common problems with ovens is that they get too hot. This can lead to overcooked and burnt food, which is not only frustrating but also a waste of time and money.
In this guide, we will explore the causes of this issue and provide you with some troubleshooting tips to fix it.
Why is my oven too hot?
There are several reasons why your oven may be running too hot. Here are some of the most common causes:
Faulty thermostat
The thermostat is the component in your oven that regulates the temperature. If it’s not working properly, it can cause your oven to run hotter than the temperature you have set. This could be due to a broken thermostat sensor or a faulty thermostat itself.
Calibration issues
Oven temperature calibration refers to the process of ensuring that the oven’s temperature matches the temperature displayed on the control panel. If the calibration is off, your oven may be running hotter than it should be.
Dirty or damaged oven components
Dirty or damaged oven components can also cause your oven to overheat. A buildup of dirt and debris can cause your oven to retain heat, while damaged components can disrupt the proper flow of heat.
Troubleshooting tips
Now that we know the potential causes of an oven running too hot, let’s explore some troubleshooting tips.
Check the temperature sensor
The temperature sensor is responsible for measuring the oven’s temperature and sending that information to the thermostat.
If the sensor is faulty or dirty, it can cause your oven to run too hot. You can check the temperature sensor with a multimeter. If the sensor is not reading the correct temperature, it needs to be replaced.
Calibrate the oven temperature
If you suspect that your oven’s calibration is off, you can easily calibrate it yourself. You’ll need an oven thermometer and your oven’s user manual.
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F and placing the thermometer in the center of the oven.
Wait for 10-15 minutes, then check the thermometer reading. If the temperature is not 350°F, adjust the temperature accordingly using the instructions in your user manual.
Clean or replace damaged components
If you notice that your oven is still running too hot, it may be time to clean or replace the damaged components. Check the heating elements, oven door gasket, and other components for any signs of dirt, debris, or damage. If you find any issues, clean or replace the components as necessary.
Conclusion
An oven that’s too hot can be frustrating and can ruin your cooking experience. However, it’s a problem that can be fixed with the right troubleshooting steps.
By checking the temperature sensor, calibrating the oven temperature, and cleaning or replacing damaged components, you can get your oven back to working properly.
If you’re not comfortable performing these troubleshooting steps yourself, it’s always a good idea to contact a professional for help.
