Maytag oven isn’t heating up

If your Maytag oven isn't heating up properly, it can be frustrating and might throw off your meal plans. While this issue is common, the good news is that there are several potential causes you can check before calling for a professional repair. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the possible reasons your Maytag oven isn’t heating up, and how you can troubleshoot the problem.

Key reasons for the problem:

35% of reported issues are the

Worn-Out or Faulty Ignitor

25% of reported issues are the

Bad Temperature Sensor (Thermistor)

20% of reported issues are the

Mis-calibrated Control/Range Control Board

20% of reported issues are the

All Other Causes

Diagnostic and troubleshooting steps

Maytag Oven Isn’t Heating Up? Follow the steps below to troubleshoot common issues like a burned-out bake element, faulty igniter (for gas models),or a malfunctioning temperature sensor.

Step 1:

Check the Power Supply

Make sure the oven is properly plugged into a functioning electrical outlet.
If the oven is plugged into a power strip, try plugging it directly into the wall to rule out issues with the power strip.

Step 2:

Check the Oven's Heating Elements

Turn off the oven and wait for it to cool completely.
Visually inspect both heating elements for any obvious signs of damage, like cracks, blisters, or visible breakage.
Test the heating elements for continuity.

Step 3:

Examine the Oven's Igniter (For Gas Ovens)

If your gas oven isn’t heating, open the oven door and look at the igniter. If it is glowing but not producing a flame, the igniter may be worn out and needs replacing.
If you’re handy with electrical tools, use a multimeter to check if the igniter has continuity. A faulty igniter can prevent your gas oven from heating.

Step 4:

Check the Oven’s Thermostat

Test the thermostat for continuity using a multimeter.
If it’s faulty, it will need to be replaced. This is especially important if your oven’s temperature is inaccurate or fluctuates wildly.

Step 5:

Inspect the Oven Control Board

If your oven has a digital display, check for any error codes that might indicate a control board issue.
Open the oven’s control panel and check for any visible signs of damage like burned components, scorched wires, or a smell of burning plastic. If you see damage, the control board may need to be replaced.

Step 6:

Replace the Oven’s Thermal Fuse

Use a multimeter to test the thermal fuse for continuity.
If there’s no continuity, you’ll need to replace the fuse.

Step 7:

Check the Oven Timer and Selector Switch

If your oven uses a mechanical timer, check to ensure it's set properly. If the timer is malfunctioning, it may not be triggering the heating elements to turn on.
Inspect the selector switch that allows you to choose between bake, broil, and other cooking modes. If it’s stuck or malfunctioning, it might prevent your oven from heating up.
Check if the switch is operating correctly and replace it if needed.

Key actions for homeowners:

Double-check that the oven’s temperature settings are correct.
Regularly clean the oven and its components, including the heating elements, thermostat, and vents.
Ensure the oven door closes properly.
Perform regular checks on the oven’s components, including the heating elements, thermostat, and timer.

Most common repairs needed to fix a maytag oven

When your oven is not heating up, certain repairs are more commonly required than others. Below are the most frequent fixes:

Replace a Faulty Heating Element:
The heating elements are the key components responsible for generating heat inside the oven. If one or both of these elements are malfunctioning or broken, your oven won’t heat properly. To check, visually inspect the elements for any visible signs of damage, such as cracks or burn marks. If the elements appear damaged, they’ll need to be replaced. This is a relatively simple repair for homeowners with basic tools and knowledge of how to safely access the oven's interior.
Replace a Defective Igniter (Gas Ovens):
For gas ovens, the igniter is essential in lighting the gas to generate heat. If your oven isn't heating up, a faulty igniter may be the culprit. You can check for a weak or non-glowing igniter by observing its performance during the start cycle. If it doesn't glow orange or produces inconsistent sparks, it’s time to replace it with an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part. Replacing an igniter requires some basic appliance repair skills and access to the oven’s interior.
Replace a Faulty Oven Sensor:
Many modern ovens come with a temperature sensor that communicates with the control board to maintain the desired heat. If this sensor is malfunctioning, it may send incorrect readings to the control board, resulting in inadequate heating. Testing the sensor with a multimeter for continuity is recommended. If the sensor is faulty, it should be replaced with an OEM part designed for your specific oven model.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Maytag oven not heating up even though it's turned on?
If your Maytag oven isn’t heating up, it could be due to a variety of issues. Common causes include a faulty heating element (in electric ovens) or a broken igniter (in gas ovens),a malfunctioning thermostat, or an issue with the oven’s control board. It's also possible that the oven's high-limit switch or temperature sensor is defective. Troubleshooting these components or seeking professional help can help resolve the issue.
How can I tell if the heating element is broken in my Maytag oven?
To check if the heating element is the problem, inspect it for any visible signs of damage, like cracks or burn marks. If the element is not glowing orange when the oven is on, it's likely defective. You can also use a multimeter to test for continuity. If there’s no continuity, the heating element needs to be replaced.
My Maytag gas oven isn’t heating up. Could the igniter be the problem?
Yes, if your gas oven isn’t heating up, a faulty igniter is one of the most common causes. The igniter is responsible for lighting the gas, and if it’s not functioning properly, the gas won’t ignite. If the igniter doesn’t glow orange or sparks inconsistently, it may need to be replaced. Be sure to replace it with a compatible OEM part for the best performance.
Can a broken thermostat prevent my Maytag oven from heating up?
Yes, a broken thermostat can definitely cause heating issues in your Maytag oven. The thermostat regulates the oven's temperature, ensuring it reaches the desired setting. If the thermostat is malfunctioning, your oven may not heat properly or reach the correct temperature. Testing the thermostat with a multimeter can help determine if it needs to be replaced.

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