Imagine this scenario, you’re having some guests over. Everything is preplanned; you’ve bought all the ingredients, and now it’s time to start cooking. You’re about to use the oven while you cook everything else on the stove. Suddenly, you realise that something is wrong with the oven, and you start to panic. If this scenario sounds familiar, you probably have a problem with the oven. Now, it can be something minor, or it can be a malfunction. Either way, you have to figure out what it is. Let’s dive into possible reasons why the oven is not baking evenly.
The positioning
The first reason you may think the oven is faulty is its positioning. Also, how you place the dish in the oven matters. If you want the heat to distribute evenly, you need to centre the dish. Firstly, for even cooking, place the dish right at the centre of the oven. Secondly, this allows the air to circulate evenly, and the meal will be cooked evenly. Also, pay attention to the oven rack and check its position.
Check the temperature calibration
The second point on our troubleshooting list is temperature calibration. In short, if the temperature is inconsistent, you need to assess the thermostat. As a result, you’ll know exactly how much to increase or decrease the temperature. Simply, use a thermostat to measure the oven temperature. For more precise baking or coking, adjust the temperature and recalibrate your oven.
Problems with oven fan
While oven fans are an amazing feature for baking, they can also be a source of problems. As a result, your oven won’t bake evenly, and the results can be disastrous. Firstly, you need to test this assumption. Try to bake something with and without the oven fan.
Now, test the results to see if the second one is better. You’ll know what to do if the oven bakes better without the oven fan. Meanwhile, until you solve the problem, bake everything without using the oven fan.
Sometimes, a malfunctioning or obstructed oven fan disrupts airflow, causing hot spots and cold spots in the oven. Remember to clean the oven fan often so it can operate smoothly.
Outdated oven
What if the oven is simply outdated? Similarly, if the oven is older, it may be time to update it. Consult with Total Appliance Repair Centre to see which of the newer models is the best replacement. Older models may have certain issues that become problems over time. In conclusion, an upgrade to a newer model with advanced features can be just what your kitchen needs.
Oven door sealing
Oven door sealing is probably something you will overlook as a potential problem. As a result, you’ll think that there’s a problem with the oven. In reality, the problem is the worn-out oven door sealing. Firstly, check to see if the oven door gasket is in good condition. If it shows some signs of damage, it will affect the oven’s performance. Secondly, turn the oven on and test if the heat is coming out stronger than usual. If you confirm your theory, you’ll have to replace it to ensure proper sealing. Thus, replace the oven door or change the sealing for efficient baking.
Damaged heater
Heater problems can cause uneven baking whenever you use your oven. If the oven isn’t heating properly, check whether the heating elements are functioning properly. They may be damaged or simply worn out over time. Try to identify any problem with the heater. Inspect all heating elements for any malfunction or damage. You’ll easily know whether it’s time to call the repairmen to change your oven heater.
Using the oven beyond its capacity
Ovens have a specific capacity. Thus, if you fill them with several dishes, it will result in uneven cooking. Even though many ovens can hold two dishes at once, you need to be aware of possible limitations. As a consequence, the temperature won’t be distributed evenly. An overcrowded oven won’t provide proper airflow so that heat won’t circulate properly. So, try to bake one meal at a time. Alternatively, you can increase baking time by baking several meals at once. Try to space out dishes properly to ensure airflow and consistent baking.
Lack of proper maintenance
Just like any other appliance in your home, ovens deserve maintenance. Above all, neglecting regular maintenance will lead to oven malfunction. You need to clean it properly, degree it regularly, and inspect it often. As a result, you’ll have a clean oven that works in top condition.
Issues with power supply
Lastly, it may be time to troubleshoot your power supply before you diagnose your oven as faulty. Sometimes, the power supply is inconsistent, so it will affect your oven. Certainly, these power supply fluctuations will affect oven performance. As a result, the meal will be poorly cooked. If this is the case, check your meals regularly to ensure enough time for cooking. Also, call an electrician to address any power supply issues.
In conclusion, the oven performance is affected by different factors. We’ve outlined the most common ones so you’ll know where to look to answer the problem.
