How to Troubleshoot a Whirlpool Electric Oven Not Heating

Introduction

This guide shows you how to troubleshoot and fix your Whirlpool electric oven that is not heating. It includes steps for checking power, testing the heating element, examining the control board, and addressing other possible causes. It also includes tips for distinguishing between electric and gas oven issues and preventing future heating problems.

What you need

Step 1 Distinguish electric vs gas oven issues

Confirm your model is electric if it uses a heating element rather than a gas igniter.
Recognize that gas ovens typically repair ignition or gas flow components differently.
Follow separate instructions for gas oven repairs because this guide is electric-specific.

Step 2 Check burner functionality

Ensure that power is off to the stove before any inspection.
Restore power and turn on a couple of stovetop burners to see if they function.
Confirm that at least one burner effectively produces heat to verify 240 volt supply.
Suspect an electrical supply problem if burners do not heat at all.

Step 3 Inspect the oven element

Disconnect power from the oven to prevent electric shock.
Examine the entire visible portion of the heating element for breaks or signs of damage.
Remove the oven racks to gain easy access to the element mounting screws at the back of the cavity.

Step 4 Remove the element for testing

Unscrew the two mounting screws at the rear of the oven securing the element.
Gently pull the element forward so the connector wires remain accessible.
Use a clothespin or other clip to prevent wires from slipping behind the oven wall.

Step 5 Test the element with a multimeter

Set the multimeter to measure resistance in ohms.
Place one lead on each element terminal and wait for a stable reading.
Confirm a typical reading between 20 and 40 ohms to show a healthy element.
Replace the element if the reading is open line or OL to correct the heating issue.
Reinstall the element with the mounting screws and reconnect any wires securely.

Step 6 Inspect the terminal block

Remove power from the stove and pull it away from the wall to access the rear panel.
Unscrew and remove the cover plate to reveal the terminal block where the power cord connects.
Look for any melting, burning, or looseness on the main voltage terminals.
Replace the wiring or block if any terminal is destroyed or severely damaged.

Step 7 Check voltage at the terminal block

Reconnect power only if you are experienced testing live voltage.
Use the multimeter to measure from L1 to neutral and from L2 to neutral for around 120 volts each.
Measure from L1 to L2 to verify about 240 volts for a proper power supply.
Suspect the power cord, outlet, or breaker if the correct voltage is not present.

Step 8 Access and examine internal back panel

Remove all screws holding the large back panel and detach it to see the oven’s internal components.
Check for a thermal fuse if present and test it for continuity if the oven has self-cleaning features.
Inspect for a hidden bake element or a convection fan element if your model has one.
Reattach the panel with all screws once checks are complete.

Step 9 Check the thermostat sensor

Locate the thermostat probe near the top or rear of the oven cavity.
Disconnect the sensor wiring and set the multimeter to measure ohms.
Expect around 1050 to 1100 ohms at room temperature for a typical sensor.
Replace the sensor if the reading is wildly off from this range.

Step 10 Evaluate the control board

Disconnect power and visually check the board for burn marks or cracked components.
Reapply power if testing voltage, and measure at the baking element terminals for 208 to 240 volts.
Replace the board if all other components test good and no voltage is supplied to the element.

Step 11 General maintenance tips

Keep the oven interior clean to reduce stress on heating elements and sensors.
Avoid slamming the oven door to prevent loosening of internal connections.
Inspect the power cord and outlet periodically for signs of wear.
Schedule regular checks of the element and thermostat especially if you use high-heat settings often.

Conclusion

Testing each component helps isolate why your Whirlpool electric oven will not heat. Replacing the faulty part restores proper function. If you are ever unsure or uncomfortable with electrical work, consult a professional for safety.