What Happens When an Oven Element Blows and How to Safely Replace It
What Happens When an Oven Element Blows?
When an oven element blows, it will open the electrical circuit, causing the oven to stop heating.
In some cases, the element may short-out against the visible part of the surface unit, resulting in sparks and a ruptured sheath.
This can cause household fuses or circuit breakers to blow or trip, and the surface unit will stop working.
After a few seconds, the sparks will cease, but there may be a burning plastic odor.
It is recommended not to use the oven if the bake or broil element fails.
The failure of the oven element will not affect the surface burners, which can still be used.
No immediate danger exists, but professional service will be required.
To schedule a service appointment, contact GE Appliances Factory Service.
Key Points:
- When an oven element blows, it will open the electrical circuit, causing the oven to stop heating.
- The element may short-out against the visible part of the surface unit, resulting in sparks and a ruptured sheath.
- This can cause household fuses or circuit breakers to blow or trip, and the surface unit will stop working.
- There may be a burning plastic odor after the sparks cease.
- It is recommended not to use the oven if the bake or broil element fails.
- The failure of the oven element will not affect the surface burners, which can still be used.
Did You Know?
1. If an oven element blows, it is usually due to a break in the heating coil caused by excessive heat or a manufacturing defect.
2. When an oven element blows, it can sometimes generate a small explosion-like sound, as the high temperature causes the wire to overheat and snap.
3. A blown oven element can result in uneven heating, with some parts of the oven still functioning while others no longer produce heat.
4. An oven element blowing can occasionally lead to a power surge that can cause damage to other appliances connected to the same circuit.
5. In some cases, a blown oven element can emit a burning smell or even smoke, indicating that the heating coil has become severely damaged.
Electrical Circuit Failure
When an oven element blows, it means that it has failed and is no longer functioning properly. This failure interrupts the electrical circuit responsible for heating the oven. The element acts as a conductor of electricity, and when it fails, it “opens” the circuit, causing the oven to stop heating.
In simpler terms, when the oven element blows, the oven stops getting hot. This can be frustrating, especially if you were in the middle of baking or cooking a delicious meal. Suddenly, your oven becomes useless, and troubleshooting becomes necessary to identify and rectify the issue.
Sparks And Ruptured Sheath
Sometimes, when an oven element fails, it may short-out against the outer visible part of the surface unit. This can cause sparks to fly and potentially rupture the sheath surrounding the element. The sheath is the protective covering of the element, and when it gets damaged, it can further exacerbate the issue.
If you happen to witness sparks flying out of your oven when the element blows, don’t panic. While it may be alarming, the sparking will typically cease after a few seconds. However, it is crucial to note that during this process, there may also be a burning plastic odor. This odor can linger for a short while, adding to the uneasiness and discomfort caused by the oven element failure.
Fuses And Circuit Breakers Blowing
When an oven element blows, it can cause household fuses or circuit breakers to blow or trip. This occurs due to the interrupted electrical circuit caused by the blown element.
Fuses and circuit breakers act as safety mechanisms to protect the electrical system from overloads or short circuits.
When the circuit overloads, triggered by a blown element, the fuse will blow or the circuit breaker will trip, cutting off the power supply to the affected part of the oven. This action prevents further damage but also renders the surface unit non-operational.
Consequently, not only does the oven stop heating, but the surface unit stops working as well until the issue is resolved.
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Burning Plastic Odor
When an oven element blows, it can emit a burning plastic odor due to sparks and potential rupture of the element sheath. The heating elements are usually protected by a casing to ensure safety and proper functioning.
However, if the element blows, sparks can damage the sheath, leading to the release of the distinct burning plastic scent. This odor can spread throughout the surrounding area, creating an unpleasant environment. If you notice this smell while using your oven, it is a clear sign that the element has blown and needs attention.
Importance Of Service Appointment
When the bake or broil element fails in your oven, it is highly recommended not to use the oven until the element has been replaced or repaired. Continuing to use the oven with a blown element can potentially lead to further damage and pose a safety risk.
While there may not be immediate danger associated with a blown oven element, it is essential to address the issue promptly. Seeking professional service to replace the element ensures that the oven is brought back to full functionality and prevents any potential hazards.
To schedule an appointment for service and safely replace the blown oven element, consider reaching out to GE Appliances Factory Service. Their team of skilled technicians will be able to diagnose the problem, provide a replacement element, and restore your oven to its optimal working condition.
Remember, a malfunctioning oven element should not be ignored, as a timely repair will prevent any further inconvenience and allow you to enjoy your favorite home-cooked meals once again.
- Don’t use the oven with a blown element
- Seek professional service for replacement
- Contact GE Appliances Factory Service for an appointment
- Skilled technicians will diagnose and provide a replacement element
- Timely repair prevents further inconvenience
Frequently Asked Questions
Can heating element in oven cause fire?
Yes, a malfunctioning heating element in an electric oven can indeed be a potential fire hazard. The oven typically contains two heating elements, with one near the top for broiling and another near the bottom for baking. If one of these heating elements is not functioning properly, it can generate excessive heat and cause a fire. Whether due to a short circuit or build-up of flammable material, such malfunctions can lead to dangerous situations if not addressed promptly. Regular maintenance and inspection of your oven’s heating elements are therefore crucial to prevent potential fire risks.
What causes oven element to catch fire?
Over time, the accumulation of grease and dirt on the oven element can lead to a potentially dangerous situation where the element catches fire. The build-up of these substances obstructs the airflow and hampers the cooling process of the oven, causing it to overheat. In extreme cases, this overheating can generate sparks or ignition, ultimately resulting in a fire that can destroy the entire oven. It is crucial to regularly clean the oven to prevent the build-up of grease and dirt and reduce the risk of a potentially catastrophic fire.
How much does it cost to replace an oven heating element?
The total cost of replacing both heating elements in an oven can range from $30 to $200 for the parts alone. However, hiring a professional technician to install the heating elements can add an additional $120 to $250 to the overall cost. Therefore, the total cost to replace an oven heating element can range from $150 to $450, depending on the specific make and model of the oven, as well as the labor charges.
Is it safe to use oven with broken element?
It is not safe to use an oven with a broken element. It is recommended that you do not use the oven if the bake or broil element fails. While the failure of one or both oven elements will not affect the surface burners, it is still important to exercise caution and refrain from using the oven until the element is repaired or replaced.