Why Cookers Stop Heating
Gas or electric, a cooker that won’t heat has a handful of usual suspects. Here is how to tell what’s wrong and what’s safe to check.
A cooker that stops heating brings the kitchen to a standstill. Whether you run gas, electric or a combination, the causes fall into a short list — and some are safe to check yourself.
Electric cookers and ovens
- A burnt-out heating element — the most common electric fault, often visible as a break or blistering.
- A failed thermostat that no longer switches the element on.
- A tripped connection or damaged wiring at the terminal block.
- A faulty energy regulator or selector switch.
Gas cookers
- An empty or low cylinder, or a closed regulator — always check first.
- A blocked burner jet clogged with food or grease.
- A faulty ignition or thermocouple that will not hold the flame.
- A worn gas valve or regulator.
What you can safely check
Confirm power or gas is reaching the cooker, clean burner jets with a fine pin, and make sure knobs and connections are seated. Never dismantle wiring, open a gas valve or bypass a safety device — these are jobs for a qualified technician.
When to call a professional
If an element shows no continuity, a thermostat fails to switch, or you smell gas, stop and book a repair. Gas faults in particular are a safety matter and should be treated as urgent.
Frequently asked
On gas, the others usually have blocked jets; on electric, individual elements or their switches have failed. Both are quick, inexpensive repairs.
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