It can be frustrating when your GE oven refuses to turn on, yet the range burners still work. While the oven and cooktop commonly rely on shared components, they have some independent parts that can fail separately. Typically, if the burners function but the oven won’t turn on, there is an issue with the oven’s heating mechanisms or internal electronics that require troubleshooting and repair. This article explores the most common culprits when your GE oven won’t start baking or broiling, but the stovetop rings or burners remain operational.
5 Common Causes When Your GE Oven Won’t Turn On But Range Burners Work
There are a handful of possible reasons why your GE oven fails to power up when the range burners continue working. Before calling a technician, homeowners can check for simple user errors. However, most causes stem from broken oven components that need professional replacement.
Check GE Oven Settings
To rule out user error, verify the oven is set properly to turn on. Check that the temperature and cooking function like bake or broil are programmed correctly. Ensure the start or on button is pressed to initiate heating. Also, check if the oven was recently used in self-cleaning mode, which locks the door until the oven interior has cooled completely after intense high heat.
Broken Heating Element
The most common culprit in GE electric ovens not turning on is a broken heating element. Electric ovens have both an upper and lower heating element to distribute heat evenly for baking. Elements can fail partially or completely, indicated by uneven cooking results, visible damage like cracks or breaks, or elements that don’t glow red throughout. Using a multimeter to check electric continuity can confirm if replacement is needed.
GE Oven Igniter is Faulty
For gas GE oven models, ignition issues from a faulty igniter prevent the oven from lighting. The igniter draws electric current to open the gas valve then produces a spark to light the gas. If the oven won’t turn on, check that the igniter glows within 30 seconds when activated. Use a multimeter to check the igniter for electric continuity. No continuity means it should be replaced by a technician.
Failed Oven Thermostat
The oven thermostat is essentially an on/off switch that opens and closes circuits based on internal oven temperature. If the thermostat fails, it won’t signal heating elements to turn on and off properly. This can lead to under or overcooked foods. Use a multimeter to check its electric continuity. A faulty thermostat that doesn’t show continuity requires replacement by a professional.
GE Oven Electronic Control Board Malfunctioned
The electronic control board is the central hardware that controls all of the GE oven’s functions. If it cannot correctly send electric signaling, oven operations like turning on heating elements will fail. Short circuits or faulty wiring can cause control boards to burn out. Technicians can run diagnostics on oven electronics to determine if the control board needs replacement.