7 Steps to Fix a Whirlpool Oven Not Heating

An oven refusing to heat up can be a chef’s worst nightmare, especially frustrating when it’s your trusted Whirlpool oven that has the issue. Cooking plans go awry, and frustration sets in. However, don’t despair, as many common problems can be resolved with thorough troubleshooting and a bit of DIY magic. 

In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into the potential culprits behind a Whirlpool oven not heating and provide detailed, step-by-step solutions to resurrect your appliance to full functionality.

This guide is applicable to most Whirlpool ovens, including models:

1SF014BEW0

1SF014BEW1

1SF014BEW2

1SF034PEW0

1SF034PEW1

1SF034PEW2

G7CG3064XS00

RDE1300P2

RF263LXTQ3

WCG51US0DS00

WCG51US6DS00

WCG97US0DS00

WEG730H0DS0

WFC310S0AW0

WFE540H0AS0

WFE540H0ES0

1. Check the power source

Before venturing into the intricacies of your oven, it’s crucial to check the basics. The foundation of any troubleshooting endeavor begins with ensuring your oven is receiving power. If it is not, a tripped breaker or a blown fuse might be the culprit. 

Solution: Ensure the oven is plugged in correctly, and inspect your home’s electrical panel for tripped circuits. Also, make sure the power socket has no signs of visible damage. Next, plug another appliance into the power socket to check if the socket is the problem.

A lack of heating in gas ovens may be attributed to a gas supply issue. Confirm that the gas line is functioning correctly. If the gas supply is intact, but the oven isn’t heating, consider replacing the igniter, as detailed below.

2. Inspect the door gasket

If the oven is heating but not sufficiently, a damaged gasket or door seal may allow heat to exit the oven.

Solution: Inspect the seal for visible damage, gaps, or wear. If you find any issues, consider replacing the door seal to restore the oven’s heating efficiency and temperature control. Replacement seals are usually available from the oven’s manufacturer or authorized service providers.

3. Check the heating element

For electric ovens, the bake or broil elements are essential for generating the necessary heat. If your oven isn’t heating, inspect the bake and broil elements for blistering or breaks. Damaged elements need immediate replacement. 

When experiencing a broken heating element, you’re advised to contact a professional instead of attempting to fix it yourself. If you decide to go it alone, ensure the power is disconnected, and it’s important to note that this may void the warranty. You must remove each element from the oven and test them for continuity with a multimeter. If the readings are off, it’s a clear sign that replacement is in order.

4. Gas ovens: Examine the igniter

Gas ovens rely on an igniter to light the gas and generate heat. If your gas oven isn’t heating, the igniter might be the culprit.

Solutions: 

1. Check if the igniter glows but fails to ignite the burner. If it glows without igniting, it is a clear indication that the component has weakened and requires replacement.
2. Locate the igniter and inspect it for visible damage. It must be replaced if there are cracks, breaks, or white or gray discoloration.
3. Test the igniter with a multimeter. Like an electric oven’s elements, we recommend you contact a professional instead of fixing it yourself. If you are familiar with using a multimeter, the igniter can be removed from the oven and tested for continuity. If there is no continuity, it needs to be replaced.

5. Check the thermostat

The oven’s thermostat regulates your oven’s temperature. If it’s defective, temperature inconsistencies or a complete lack of heat might be plaguing your kitchen. 

Solution: Locate the thermostat and test it for continuity using a multimeter. The thermostat, a.k.a. the temperature sensor, is typically located inside the oven cavity. Its placement can vary depending on the specific oven model but is commonly positioned in the upper back wall of the oven, near the top heating element or broil element.

If there’s no continuity, replacement is necessary. Calibrating the thermostat may also be required for accurate temperature regulation.

6. Test the thermal fuse

The thermal fuse is a safety device that shuts off power to the oven if it overheats. If it’s blown, it needs to be replaced. Note that it’s essential to determine the cause of the overheating to prevent future issues.

Solution: Test the thermal fuse for continuity with a multimeter. The thermal fuse is usually located behind its rear access panel on the back of the oven or in the control panel area. Ensure the power is disconnected before removing the access panel.

Inspect the thermal fuse for any signs of damage, such as a visible break in the wire or a charred appearance. Next, set a multimeter to the continuity or ohms setting. Place the multimeter probes on each end of the thermal fuse. If the thermal fuse has continuity (a continuous electrical path), it’s not blown. If there’s no continuity, the fuse is blown and must be replaced.

7. Consider the control board

The control board is the brains of your oven, responsible for managing and regulating various functions and features of the appliance. If it malfunctions, it will no doubt throw a wrench into your culinary plans.

Solution: Testing a control board for errors requires a trained professional. However, you can check for visible damage, like burnt connections. If you are not confident in your abilities to access and handle the control board, it’s best to rely on professional assistance to avoid unnecessary risks or complications.

Final thoughts

A Whirlpool oven that is not heating can be a daunting challenge, but armed with the above knowledge, you can save time and money. Remember, safety is paramount, so always disconnect the power before attempting any repairs. If you need clarification or issues persist, seek professional help or contact Whirlpool customer support.