Electric and gas ovens have different failure profiles. In Vancouver’s older homes and heritage buildings especially, we see both types regularly. Here’s what goes wrong.
Electric Oven Won’t Heat
The most common cause on most brands is a failed bake element. The bake element is the metal coil at the bottom of the oven. It looks orange and glowing when working; if it has dark spots, is swollen, or doesn’t glow at all, it’s failed. Test it with a multimeter set to ohms — you should see 20-40 ohms. If it reads OL, replace it.
The second most common cause: the oven thermostat or temperature sensor. When it fails, the oven may not heat at all, or may overheat.
Gas Oven Won’t Light
The most common issue is the glow bar igniter. When it starts to fail, you hear the gas valve click but no ignition — and you smell unburned gas, which is a safety concern. The igniter costs $60-100 and takes about 20 minutes to replace.
Stovetop Burner Won’t Light or Burns Orange
A burner that won’t light: the spark electrode has failed or the burner cap isn’t seated properly. Try swapping the electrode with another burner — if the problem moves to the other burner, it’s the electrode.
A yellow flame instead of blue: the burner ports are clogged. Clean with a needle. Persistent yellow flames mean the gas isn’t burning cleanly — also check the air shutter.
Oven Temperature Is Wrong
If your oven runs hot or cold by more than 15-20°C, most modern ovens have a digital temperature calibration in the settings menu. If calibration doesn’t fix it, the temperature sensor probe needs replacing.
What This Costs at Evo
- Bake element: $75-150
- Glow bar igniter: $80-145
- Spark electrode: $70-120
- Temperature sensor: $85-140
- Control board: $150-270
Book an Oven or Stove Repair
Call or text (604) 200-3054 or book at evoappliances.ca. Same-day appointments available across Metro Vancouver.
Whether you’re in Downtown Vancouver or Kitsilano, Evo Appliances covers both neighbourhoods with same-day service. If you own a Maytag unit, don’t miss our comprehensive Maytag dishwasher error codes guide — it covers F1 through F7 and helps you decide whether it’s a DIY fix or time to call a pro.