Nothing really happens when you turn on your oven, adjust the temperature, and wait for it to preheat. Even though the fan is running and the light is on, the inside remains cool. That is typically an indication that the igniter in your oven has malfunctioned.

The igniter is what gets your oven heating in the first place. When it weakens or fails, the oven can’t start the heating cycle properly, even though everything else looks like it’s working fine. The good news? It’s a common problem and one we repair all the time.

Here’s what could be going on and how to get your oven heating evenly again with professional oven service.

Why Oven Igniters Stop Working

1. Normal wear over time

Every time you bake or roast, high heat is applied to the igniters. The element gradually loses its ability to produce the spark required to begin heating as a result of the heat over time.

2. Grease or residue buildup

The igniter could get coated with food scraps or sanitation residue if you cook frequently. The oven can’t start its heating cycle if even a thin layer prevents adequate contact.

3. Loose or damaged wiring

Power cannot correctly reach the part if the wires that connect the igniter to the control system become loose or burned. The oven might seem to be in good condition, but it will not heat up.

4. Faulty control board connection

Sometimes the problem isn’t the igniter itself but the control board sending power to it. A failing relay or internal short can interrupt the ignition signal.

5. Electrical power issues

A partially tripped breaker or a worn outlet can cause your oven to turn on but not heat. If the igniter isn’t getting steady power, it won’t engage properly.

What You Can Try Before Calling a Technician

Before you book a service visit, there are a few quick checks you can do safely at home:

• Check the oven settings. Try both bake and broil modes. If neither heats up, that’s a clear sign the igniter may be at fault.
• Look for the igniter glow. When you start the oven, peek inside (without touching anything). If the igniter doesn’t glow faintly or spark, it’s likely not working.
• Inspect for visible damage. If the igniter looks cracked, white, or burnt, it’s past its lifespan.
• Reset the power. Turn the oven off at the breaker for a few minutes, then back on, sometimes a small electrical glitch resets this way.
• Check for error codes. Many modern ovens show a code when a heating component fails. Look up the code in your user manual or online.

If nothing changes after these steps, it’s time to have the igniter tested and replaced professionally. It’s a quick fix that makes a big difference in how your oven performs.

And if you’re thinking about future upgrades, you can explore Energy Star–certified electric cooking products for more efficient, reliable performance.

We Fix Igniter Problems on All Major Brands

When an oven fails to heat, preheats too slowly, or stops functioning in the middle of its cycle, Charlotte homeowners can get service from Just Call Appliance Repair. The leading reason involves a damaged or malfunctioning igniter, which our technicians can identify and replace immediately.

Whirlpool, GE, LG, Samsung, Frigidaire, KitchenAid, and Maytag are just a few of the well-known brands that we service. There are no long delays or uncertainty, just genuine, dependable service, when our local team shows up with the equipment and parts required to get your oven heating effectively once again.

FAQs: Oven Igniter Malfunctioning

My oven’s light and fan are working, but why won’t it heat up?

If your oven turns on but doesn’t heat up, it’s usually because the igniter is worn out or the connection isn’t strong enough to get power to it.

How can I determine whether my igniter is malfunctioning?

The most typical indication is that when the oven is turned on, it doesn’t glow or spark. Additionally, you may observe that your oven is not preheating at all or that it takes a lot longer to reach the desired temperature.

Can I change the igniter on my own?

Since the igniter is directly connected to the electrical system of your oven, it is best to leave it to a professional. Our technicians are able to install the appropriate replacement part and conduct safe testing.

Do you repair all oven brands?

Yes, we repair and replace igniters on most major brands, including Whirlpool, GE, LG, Samsung, Frigidaire, and more across the Charlotte area.