Stove Not Heating? What’s Going Wrong and How to Fix It

If your stove feels like an icebox, you’re not alone. A stove that won’t heat can ruin dinner plans and leave you shivering in the kitchen. The good news is many of the reasons are simple and can be checked in minutes. Below we break down the usual suspects, give you step‑by‑step DIY fixes, and let you know when it’s time to call the Bognor Regis Appliance Repair Experts.

Common Reasons Your Stove Won’t Heat

First, understand what could be stopping the heat. Most electric stoves use a heating element, a thermostat, and a safety cut‑out. If any of these fail, the surface stays cold.

• Power supply issues: A tripped breaker or a loose plug can stop electricity from reaching the stove.
• Burner element failure: Elements can burn out over time, especially if they’re used a lot.
• Thermostat or temperature sensor problems: If the sensor reads the wrong temperature, it won’t tell the element to turn on.
• Safety cut‑out (thermal fuse): This device shuts the stove off when it gets too hot. A faulty fuse will keep it off even when the stove is cool.

Gas stoves have similar issues: a blocked igniter, empty gas line, or a faulty safety valve can keep flames from appearing.

DIY Steps to Get Your Stove Working Again

Before you pick up the phone, try these quick checks. Always turn off the stove and unplug it (or switch off the breaker) before you start.

1. Check the breaker and outlet: Open your circuit box and make sure the stove’s breaker isn’t tripped. Reset it if needed. Plug another appliance into the same socket to confirm the outlet works.
2. Inspect the element: Look for visible cracks, blisters, or a broken coil. If it looks damaged, you’ll need a replacement element. It’s a simple swap in most models – just remove the old one, slide in the new, and secure it.
3. Test the thermostat: Use a multimeter set to continuity. When the thermostat is cold, the meter should show continuity; when it’s hot, it shouldn’t. No continuity means a bad thermostat – replace it.
4. Reset the safety cut‑out: Some stoves have a reset button on the back or near the control panel. Press it, then try heating again.
5. For gas stoves, check the igniter: A clicking sound without a spark indicates a failed igniter. Clean any debris and replace if necessary.

If any of these steps reveal a broken part, you can buy a replacement online or from a local hardware store. Most DIY repairs take under an hour if you have the right tools.

However, if you’re not comfortable with electrical work, can’t locate the problem, or the stove still won’t heat after these checks, it’s time to call in the pros.

At Bognor Regis Appliance Repair Experts we specialize in stove and oven repairs. Our technicians know how to diagnose hidden faults, replace elements, thermostats, and safety fuses quickly. We’ll arrive on time, explain what went wrong, and give you a clear price before we start.

Regular maintenance can keep your stove heating efficiently for years. Wipe spills away promptly, avoid dropping heavy pots on the burners, and schedule a yearly safety check with us. A quick clean‑up and an occasional professional inspection are all it takes to avoid costly breakdowns.

Don’t let a cold stove ruin your meals. Try the easy fixes above, and if you still need help, give Bognor Regis Appliance Repair Experts a call. We’ll get your stove back to full heat so you can get back to cooking the dishes you love.