Appliance Repair Tips

Appliance Repair Tips

Astre Appliance Service

Questions about appliance repair? Check the Astre Appliance Services FAQs below and give us a call at (973) 575-6004 to schedule your repair.

Useful Appliance Repair Tips

  • Why Should I Pay for Someone to Come Repair or Replace My Appliances?

    Home repair is a tricky bit of business. When your appliances break down it can leave you with a large hole in your life that could become a gaping money pit if you’re not careful. Make sure you do your research to repair or replace your appliances!


    Appliance repair and replacement are not something every DIY homeowner can handle. It is a delicate and often dangerous procedure that, if undertaken improperly, can lead to serious injury or the further destruction of the appliance in question.


    That’s why it’s important to enlist professional help in your quest to keep the appliances in your life running in perfect working order. Paying an appliance repair professional to fix or replace your appliances can save you a great deal of time and money in the long run.


    Using a professional, you might be able to prolong the life of your appliances with repairs instead of a full replacement. You can ensure that the installation of new appliances goes off without a hitch. Preventative maintenance can fix issues in your home before they become disasters. And finally, you can protect the safety of your home and family by entrusting these hazardous tasks to trained workers.


    Repair Over Replacement


    Buying a brand-new appliance is costly. A new refrigerator, for instance, can cost upwards of $2,000. If there is any way to prolong the lifespan of your existing appliance, that’s a road worth looking into.


    That’s why it pays to bring in a team of professionals who will repair your appliance for a fraction of the cost of a brand-new one. Oftentimes, what we perceive as something being broken beyond repair is a small problem that can be rectified easily. A dishwasher that is backing up might just have a faulty filtration system. A refrigerator that is no longer keeping food cold might just be a dusty condenser coil, which is a simple repair.


    Before you run out to the store to buy a brand-new expensive money-sucking product, consult a local appliance repair company that can come to your home, diagnose the problem, and let you know if it is cost-effective to repair the existing problem or fully replace the appliance.


    Proper Installation


    If your old appliance is indeed dead and gone, then a new appliance becomes necessary. But after you’ve dropped all that money on a new stove or washing machine, don’t attempt to install it yourself without the proper training.


    Imagine spending thousands of dollars on a brand-new appliance only to make a horrible mistake during installation which can seriously damage the product. Appliance professionals exist for more than just making repairs. They can bring their skill and expertise to bear when installing brand-new appliances, ensuring that you’re getting your money’s worth.


    Installing a stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, or washer/dryer can be complicated and often dangerous work. You have to patch these appliances in with your home’s utilities like water and gas. One wrong move could cause a serious disaster.


    Have your appliances installed the right way the first time by bringing in professional aid.


    Preventative Maintenance


    That awkward moment when one of your key appliances up and dies on you can be horrifying. That’s usually when homeowners run out to the store in a panic and waste money on a brand-new appliance, ignoring the potential for repairs.


    With preventative maintenance, you can keep your appliance running longer and better by handling potentially catastrophic issues before they become problematic.


    Think of preventative maintenance like a check-up at the doctor. If you catch a sickness before it spreads, it’s much easier to treat and your prognosis looks a lot better.


    Your appliance repair professional is your appliance doctor, and they will check all of your vital products for defects that might become monumental emergencies later. Perhaps a coil in your refrigerator is starting to go, or there’s a small issue with your stove which, left unchecked, could cause the entire appliance to break.


    By fixing the issue when the problem is small, you save time, money, and stress.


    Regular preventative maintenance should be undertaken at least once a year. Ideally, it would be once every six months. When you know what problems are plaguing your household, you can deal with them in your own time without a major emergency.


    Safety


    When you’re patching appliances into your utilities, there are a number of mistakes one could make that could not only be costly to the appliance itself, but to your own personal safety.


    Appliance repair and installation specialists know exactly what they’re doing, and they have the expertise needed to safely and correctly get your new appliance up and running or make safe and secure repairs on your old reliable products.


    Trust the Best


    The team at Astre Appliance Services is a dedicated and experienced group of professionals that will repair or install your appliances and keep your home working to preserve your standard of living.


    For more information, call us toll-free at 800-734-2098, or visit us online.

  • How Long Should My Appliances Last?

    We rely on our household appliances to maintain our quality of life. There is nothing more horrifying than those fateful days when you hear a vital piece of home machinery sputter and die. Depending on the appliance, the impact on your daily routine could be huge.


    That’s why it’s important to know roughly how long your appliances should last. If you know that your refrigerator’s life expectancy is running out, you can take preventative measures to prolong its life or start saving up to invest in a new one. The alternative is just waiting around for the day it drops dead in front of you, leaving you with a dark container filled with rotting food.


    What are some of the most important appliances in your life? And more importantly, how long do you have before they start fritzing out?


    Throughout this article, we will examine four of the most common household appliances and give you an idea as to how long they will last.


    We’re going to be looking at:


    1. Refrigerator

    2. Stove/Oven

    3. Washer/Dryer

    4. Dishwasher


    Let’s dive in with arguably the most important and expensive item on our list.


    1. Refrigerator


    Can you get a refrigerator for under $1,000? Sure. It’s not going to be a great one, though. Refrigerators tend to be on the pricey side, with some of the more advanced models going for thousands of dollars.


    So, it stands to reason that when you’re making such a hefty investment, you want your appliance to last for a long time.


    Good news on that front. Refrigerators typically have a lifespan between 10 and 15 years. Obviously, the cheaper models are going to give out faster than some of the more expensive “built like a food cooling tank” versions that cost a pretty penny.


    If your refrigerator dies, it can be a costly disaster. Not only are you losing a device, but you’re also going to lose all of the perishable food that you were storing within. At any given time, our refrigerators and freezers are holding somewhere around $100 worth of food. It would be a shame if all of that went to waste because of an avoidable malfunction.


    You want to ensure that your fridge is storing items at around 37 degrees Fahrenheit for fresh food. If you see your device not hitting that number, it’s a safe bet that your appliance is starting to fail. A common issue with refrigerators is a dusty condenser coil. Hot air can no longer be pushed out and internal temperatures start to climb. Dusting the coils with a vacuum cleaner or a long brush can help to keep your food fresh.


    2. Washer/Dryer


    If you’ve ever lived in an apartment building that didn’t have a washer and dryer, you know all too well the joys of having one. No one wants to shlep their way out to a laundromat every time they need clean clothes. The end result of that scenario is usually piles of dirty clothes left behind as proof of your laundry procrastination.


    That’s why it’s so important to make sure that both your washer and dryer are in good working order. Typically, these appliances last up to 12 years, but that can be extended with regular maintenance, including a few things that you can do yourself.


    For starters, make sure that you’re cleaning out the lint trap after each dryer cycle. You should also be cleaning out your appliance hoses, dryer ducts, and heating elements once per year at a minimum. This helps two-fold, as it prolongs the life of your washer and dryer, and helps protect your home from a potentially disastrous dryer fire. If lint accumulates within the heating elements it could ignite and cause a horrible issue.


    When it comes to washing machines, top-loading washers tend to last longer, while their front-loading counterparts are more efficient. Front-loading washers tend to see issues develop with mold accumulation on the rubber door gaskets, which require regular maintenance. Wiping this component down after every load can be helpful, followed by leaving the door open for a bit to let it air dry.


    3. Stove/Oven


    What are you going to do if your stove and/or oven die out on you? Microwave all of your meals? Cook over a roaring fire in the backyard? It’s important to ensure that these appliances remain in good working order to preserve your culinary future.


    Both electric and gas-burning stoves/ovens have a life expectancy between 10 and 15 years. Be on the lookout for issues with the igniter, bake element, and control board.


    So, which lasts longer, a gas-burning stove or an electric one? Typically, a gas stove will have a few more years of functionality, because there are fewer moving parts. It’s always a good idea to clear out the gas burner ports from time to time with a pipe cleaner, as well as clean the vent hood filter on the regular.


    4. Dishwasher


    Yes, you don’t need a dishwasher to live, but isn’t it nice to have one? Scrubbing plates, pots, and pans by hand can be tedious work, and it’s much easier to just load up a dishwasher and be done with that whole messy business.


    A typical dishwasher is going to last you between eight and 10 years. However, this is also the most inexpensive item on our list, running somewhere in the $500 range, on average. Some signs that your dishwasher is starting to fail can include inefficient cleaning or a loud banging sound emanating from within the appliance.


    Dishwashers have changed a lot over the years. Old models used macerators to grind up bits of food that stubbornly clung to a plate or pot. Most of the more modern appliances use a filtration system, but that requires maintenance.


    It’s usually a good idea to scrape your dishes into the trash or garbage disposal before putting them in the dishwasher. That will help the filter and improve your appliance’s lifespan. If you can smell a rotten odor coming from your dishwasher, the filtration system is likely gummed up.


    Maintenance Saves Appliances


    Don’t wait until your appliances kick the bucket. Regular preventative maintenance toward the end of an appliance’s lifespan can seriously prolong its existence.


    Astre Appliance Services specializes in maintaining and repairing the appliances that keep your life moving forward. Call now, toll-free, to schedule an appointment, at 800-734-2098, or visit us online.

  • What to Do if My Washer Smells Like Mold?

    Since mold can grow on almost any surface where moisture is present, this makes it practically a fact of life in our homes. You may expect to find it on your shower curtain, in the corners of your basement, or on some old bread. But what can you do when it invades your appliances and your washer smells like mold?


    Mold can hide in some pretty sneaky places in your home and look very unsightly at the same time. You may see black stains around your refrigerator door and drip pans or on the walls of your toilet tank. These things might be easy to deal with. However, mold growth also leaves an odor, making areas like your microwave or washer smell like mold. But fear not. There are ways to eliminate this problem.


    Why your washer smells like mold It’s easy for your washer to develop a moldy smell. This complaint is particularly common for those with front-loading washing machines.


    Do you leave your washing machine door open after doing a load of laundry? Probably not, because doing so may create a hazardous situation for your family. However, closing the door allows the moisture to become trapped there until it’s time to open it again for the next load. Unfortunately, that’s one of the reasons why it’s so easy for mold to grow there.


    Did you forget to transfer your clothes to the dryer? If you leave wet clothes too long, this can also make your washer smell like mold. The only way to get rid of the smell is to wash the clothes again.


    Is your washing machine level? Sometimes the floor under your machine can become warped or uneven. If this happens, your washer may not drain effectively. To fix the problem, you will need to bring in a qualified technician to make adjustments that will prevent the machine from shifting during the wash cycle.


    Do you use liquid fabric softener? Many of these products have a waxy base that can cause them to stick to the outer tub. As a result, you might want to switch to sheets designed for the dryer. If you must use liquid, use the lowest recommended amount.


    Do you wash with cold water? Today, many fabric manufacturers recommend cold water washing. This helps to protect your clothes and make the colors last longer. When you combine this with new eco-friendly detergents and cleaners, you don’t always get the bacteria and mold-blasting power of things like hot water and bleach.


    Troubleshooting ideas you can perform when your washer smells like mold 


    A washer that smells like mold does seem quite troubling. Even worse, the smell can permeate your entire house. Here are some tips for what you can do to eliminate the odor and help prevent it from reoccurring.


    Wipe down the door and gasket after each use. 

    When you can’t keep the door open, this is a good substitute for allowing the area to dry and prevent mold growth. Create a mixture using vinegar, water, tea tree, and lemongrass oils. Use a spray bottle to apply the solution to the washer door and under and around the rubber fold. Let it sit for several minutes then scrub off the mold and wipe the area clean with a damp rag.


    Check the soap dispenser. If you can’t remember your last time (or ever) cleaning this area, now is the time. There is likely months’ or years’ worth of soap scum and mold built up around it. The dispenser can be removed easily, allowing you to clean it with warm water. Then, just wipe down the area around it and replace it. From start to finish, it should only take a few minutes to do this.


    Brush off loose mold spores from the fabric. This is especially important if you have left clothes in the washer too long. Wash the clothes again in the hottest setting they can stand, using non-chlorine bleach if possible.


    Clean the washer tub with vinegar and tea tree oil. These items are easily found at most supermarkets and drug stores. Pour the mixture into the bleach dispenser and run the Tub Clean cycle. This is a time-tested, natural remedy that will have your washer smelling fresh and will kill all the mold and bacteria lurking in there. If your washer does not have a Tub Clean cycle, you can also run an empty wash cycle using hot water, adding either a cup of bleach, baking soda, or powdered dishwashing detergent directly into the wash tub.


    Purchase retail products designed to help when your washer smells like mold. Purchase retail products designed to help when your washer smells like mold. 

    You can find numerous products at home improvement stores with chemicals and other ingredients that will clean and deodorize the inside of your washing machine.


    Develop a regular maintenance schedule. You can’t just perform these tasks once and forget about them. To prevent your washer from smelling like mold in the future, you must clean it periodically. Experts recommend cleaning your machine and running the Tub Clean cycle at least once a month.


    When possible, leave the washer door open for a while after completing a load. Depending on where your washer is located and whether you have small children or pets this might not be feasible. However, if you can you should try to keep the door open to let the hot air escape and prevent your washer from becoming a paradise for mold growth.


    Try changing your laundry detergent. If you have a high-efficiency washer, it’s essential that you use an HE detergent. These machines use less water than their traditional counterparts and without the special detergent; your washer will have to run longer to rinse all the soap out. This means more moisture or soapy residue which may produce more molds.


    Contact a qualified appliance repair company for assistance and advice. These companies typically work on all types of washing machines and brands and they’ve seen it all. As a result, they can help you with both minor and major issues, such as when your washer smells like mold.

  • Dishwasher Grinding Noise: How Do I Stop It?

    Our homes are full of noise. From electronics use and the HVAC unit to cooking sounds and the voices of family members, your home may often seem like it’s just a few decibels below a rock concert. But it’s all good because it shows that you have life and happiness going on under your roof. However, one sound you don’t want to hear is a dishwasher grinding noise. If you are facing this issue, your main concern is how to stop it.


    A dishwasher grinding noise can drown out all other noises in your house. It’s a source of worry and questions. In addition to asking how you will clean your dishes now and whether should you just throw them away, you will want to know how to stop it. Learn more to make the decision that is best for your household.


    Why you need to know what to do about dishwasher grinding noise

     

    You probably don’t have the money for a new dishwasher right now. Since your dishwasher is a huge convenience and a big investment, it’s essential to take care of it correctly. A brand-new dishwasher will set you back approximately $300 to $700. When you add on installation and labor costs of $200 to $500 and that’s quite an unexpected chunk out of your budget.


    Ignoring a problem will likely make it worse. If something has fallen into your machine and is wearing down the parts, the situation will only become louder and more pronounced until it is fixed.


    Remember that it could all be normal. Since your dishwasher runs on a motor-driven electrical mechanism, slight grinding noises as it works through the cleaning cycle are no cause for concern. Also, to solve the issue of washing your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher, some brands now include food disposals and grinders within the machine. This prevents you from having to prewash but it can produce an annoying grinding sound. Pick your poison.


    Possible causes for dishwasher grinding noise


    Food or other debris stuck in the motor – there are numerous moving parts in your dishwasher. One of the most important is the motor. That’s why it’s necessary to ensure that it remains unencumbered. Even if you dutifully rinse your dishes before loading, there are still food particles left over. Over time, these can build up and create a mass of grit, which will produce that dreaded dishwasher grinding noise.


    Timeworn motor bearings – depending on the age of your dishwasher, the rubber around the bearings can weaken over time. This is most often caused by things like years of exposure to hot water and steam.


    The dishwasher is not properly fastened to the cabinet or floor – your dishwasher must be secure in its housing. If not, strange noises can result.


    Wash or drain impellers – these could be broken or cracked. If there is debris or the broken pieces are chaffing the sides, you will hear a loud grinding noise.


    Insufficient water spray – the parts of your dishwater require water to operate the way it’s supposed to. Sometimes, there is not enough water spraying into your machine due to a malfunctioning water inlet valve.


    Tips on troubleshooting your dishwasher grinding noise problem


    Find your service manual. All dishwashers are different. While many of the parts are universal, there might be subtle differences you need to be aware of. For example, some may have additional pieces that will need to be removed. Most come with schematics and instructions for how to address possible problems.


    Check your filter. Occasional maintenance on your dishwasher is essential. It doesn’t matter if you have a KitchenAid, GE, Bosch, or other brands of dishwashing machines. Most models have a filter that needs to be cleaned out periodically. Many people are not aware of this. On a majority of models, a detachable filter is located on the bottom of the tub. When not cleaned, it can cause overflows. If it’s too full, excess food particles will have to go somewhere else, and most likely, they will go where they don’t belong and cause that dishwasher grinding noise.


    Take the dishwasher apart, piece by piece, until you locate the issue. First, you will need to unplug the appliance. Next, you will need to take apart the spray arm assembly at the bottom by unscrewing the screw which holds it. You may also have to remove the pump housing, spacer plate, and screen. At each step, take a look to be sure nothing is stuck in these areas. Doing this will help you determine exactly where the problem is and where you should focus your efforts. Whether you have a Kenmore, GE, Whirlpool, or other brand, the method for taking it apart is pretty general.


    Interrupt the cleaning cycle. Many dishwashers allow you to pause or stop the cleaning cycle in the middle. If yours does this, take advantage. When you hear the grinding noise, open the dishwasher door. Wait for the steam to clear and then check the area under the bottom rack, around the rotating plastic blades, to see if there is anything stuck.


    Clean as you go. Since you have taken it apart, you might as well use the opportunity to clean the parts of your dishwasher. For instance, the screen can be cleaned with simple soap and water.


    Run your dishwasher when it’s empty. The problem could be a faulty motor and not something jammed in the parts. If you still hear your dishwasher grinding noise when there is nothing in the machine, it could be a plumbing or motor issue.


    Replace any broken or damaged parts. When you inspect your dishwasher, you may clean the parts and still experience the noise. You might also locate parts that are cracked or broken beyond repair. Then you may need to replace the part. Write down the model and serial numbers to make it easier at the home improvement store.


    Hire a qualified appliance repair technician. Sometimes, DIY is not your best option, especially if you are inexperienced in working with the parts of a major appliance. You don’t want to make the situation worse. More importantly, you don’t want to make a mistake that could void your warranty.

  • General Appliance Tips

    Please refer to the following appliance repair tips before you attempt to repair your appliance including washing machines, dryers, and refrigerators:

    • Make sure the appliance is plugged in and turned on.
    • If plugged into a GFI outlet, please ensure that it is not tripped.
    • Make sure the appliance is plugged in and no circuit breakers or fuses are blown.
    • If your appliance requires water, make sure the valves are all turned on.
    • Ensure all doors and top lids are closed fully to engage any switches.
    • Finally, please refer to the user’s manual to see if there are any manufacturer recommendations that will fix the issue.
    • Stove, oven, cooktop, or microwave repair tips
    • Make sure the appliance is plugged in and turned on.
    • For microwaves, do not insert any metal objects.
    • Gas ovens and range, try to bake at a regular temperature of 350 degrees to avoid cycling the igniter.
    • For electric ovens, try not to spill onto the element so as not to short it out.

    Astre Appliance Repair is Northern New Jersey’s best appliance repair service since 1981. Contact us today!



  • Should My Sub-Zero Refrigerator Be Repaired or Replaced?

    Sometimes, it’s easy to pick between two choices. Making a statement versus being silent or whether to choose the road less traveled or the well-beaten path are often no-brainers. Others are not so simple, such as whether your Sub-Zero refrigerator should be repaired or replaced.


    Maintaining your appliances is a big part of making your home comfortable and efficient. If anything goes wrong, it’s imperative to address it right away. But first, you will need to make a choice. You will need to know whether these appliances, like your Sub-Zero refrigerator, should be repaired or replaced.


    Frequently asked questions about Sub-Zero refrigerator repair:


    Why is it better to have my Sub-Zero refrigerator repaired instead of replaced? Sub-Zero refrigerators are quite expensive. If you don’t have room in your budget for an $8,000 to $10,000 purchase, a repair may be your ideal option. In addition, a newer model might not perform as well as your tried-and-true kitchen companion. Also, some consumers report that several of the newer versions are not as durable as the ones manufactured 20 years ago. It may also be tough to find a new refrigerator that fits into your existing space.


    How long will my Sub-Zero refrigerator last? Sub-Zero refrigerators are very fixable, compared to other types of refrigerators. They can be difficult to replace but with proper maintenance, some people have kept their Sub-Zero refrigerators for 30 years and more. This is essential so that you don’t have to blow your budget by needing to purchase a new one. A top-quality appliance repair company will help you determine whether it’s more cost-effective to have your Sub-Zero refrigerator repaired or replaced. For instance, if you are looking at a repair that will cost $750, that’s easier on your budget than a new $9,000 refrigerator.


    What factors should I consider before deciding if my Sub-Zero refrigerator needs repair or replacement? We have become a disposable society. There is such an abundance of everything, that we are now accustomed to throwing things away when something goes wrong, instead of fixing it. This holds for automobiles, clothing, furniture, and even appliances.


    A Sub-Zero refrigerator might be different though. Because of its price tag and custom fit, we often think twice before replacing it. Here are some factors to help you make the right choice:


    Warranty – if your Sub-Zero fridge is still under warranty, getting it repaired is your best option.


    Age – if the refrigerator is less than 10 years old, you certainly don’t want to purchase a brand-new one so soon. On the other hand, if you know it’s near the end of its lifespan, you might be able to squeeze a few more years out of it but you should start budgeting for a replacement.


    Type of repair needed – there are many parts on a Sub-Zero refrigerator and any of them can fail. A wire that has been damaged is not the same as a faulty compressor.


    How much you love it – let’s face it: Sub-Zero refrigerators can be quite beautiful. You may have come to see it as a major part of your kitchen and lifestyle. If so, you might want to have it repaired as long as possible.

     

    Where can I go to have my Sub-Zero refrigerator repaired? You should only have your Sub-Zero refrigerator repaired or replaced by qualified technicians. It’s vital to shop around and find a company that is trustworthy and efficient with a positive, long-standing reputation in your area. An appliance repair company that is less expensive or makes lofty promises could be a nightmare just waiting for you to fall asleep. Remember that you get what you pay for. Also, look for one that specializes and has plenty of experience repairing Sub-Zero refrigerators.


    What you should know about Sub-Zero refrigerators. Some brands and models can be noisy. If you are the type who is sensitive to the noises of your home, this could be an issue for you. Some brands offer quieter operations so you should definitely do your homework before choosing the one that is right for you, your family, and your lifestyle.


    Sub-Zero refrigerators may improve the look and function of your kitchen. Many refrigerator models can be bulky or unsightly or pick up dirt and fingerprints easily. You won’t have that with Sub-Zero refrigerators. With integrated panels, they practically melt into your cabinetry and blend seamlessly with your décor. Also, separate compressors for the fridge and freezer sections give you more control over your refrigerant needs. As an added bonus, this should also give you more power when it comes to your utility bill.


    You can’t beat a Sub-Zero refrigerator for top-of-the-line performance. There are various brands and models, but most have similar qualities. For example, you can get models with digital displays that show the real temperature, a built-in water filter, spill-proof shelving, and a door-open alarm. You can even purchase some with an air filtration system based on NASA technology as well as a nanotechnology coating. This coating allows you to better control a spill because the liquid will quickly congeal instead of spreading all over your refrigerator.


    While they are expensive, they are also an investment in the future of your home. This may be especially important to you if you are planning a high-end kitchen renovation. Of course, you will only want the best. In addition, if you ever plan to sell your home, you may be able to command a higher price if you have the kind of luxury kitchen some potential buyers are looking for, which would include a Sub-Zero refrigerator. As a result, you get a better return on investment.


    Sub-Zero refrigerators make a statement. You can get a regular refrigerator, even a stylish, lavish one, for thousands of dollars less. However, if you want your kitchen to make an impact, then you need a Sub-Zero refrigerator. They are undoubtedly the most recognizable type of high-end refrigerator. Most people know what they are (and how much they cost). Therefore, if you are looking to impress your friends and family by owning something most people don’t have, this is the kind of refrigerator for you.

  • Why Is My Viking Oven Not Heating Up?

    Harry Truman said, “If you can’t stand the heat, get out of the kitchen.” But what do you do when there is no heat, such as your Viking oven not heating up?


    Many great things are the result of heat energy. The function of automobiles, heating our homes, and the warmth of the sun are just some of the benefits we get from heat. Cooking food is perhaps the one we think of most often, which is why it means so much when your Viking oven is not heating up. You need to know why and what to do about it.


    Issues you may be able to troubleshoot yourself if your Viking oven is not heating up


    Whether you’ve got a taste for something special or your favorite comfort food, nothing is as aggravating as not being able to make it because your Viking oven is not heating up. Before you call your trusty appliance repair company, there are several things you may want to try/look for first.



    Give it time – wait 30-60 minutes before trying to heat the oven again.


    Look for the oven indicator light – this may be a sign that the oven is too hot and needs to cool down before you can use it again.


    Check your power supply – make sure the oven is plugged in correctly and that no circuit breakers have been tripped.


    Unplug the oven and then plug it in again – this is an old standby that’s always worth a try.


    Possible reasons why your Viking oven is not heating up


    The bake igniter has gone out. This part will generally last about eight years. Sometimes it stops working completely or just doesn’t get hot enough, even though you may see it glowing. If it doesn’t reach a certain temperature, the gas safety valve will not open. You can sometimes detect this issue by turning on the oven and listening for the burner to light, which should happen in two minutes or less. When it doesn’t, it’s a safe bet that the igniter is the cause. Since this part is located below the floor of the oven and you would need to unbolt the access panel, this is a job best left to appliance repair professionals.


    The thermostat cutting off too soon. You may need to replace the thermostat. A Viking oven has a relatively simple operation. The thermostat sends power to the igniter, which turns on the gas. If this communication does not occur effectively, your oven will not heat to the desired temperature. It’s also possible that your thermostat will simply need to be recalibrated. Just remember that the thermostat is connected to wires and is positioned either behind the front fascia panel or in the back of the oven. Therefore, unless you are an experienced do-it-yourselfer, you should contact a qualified appliance repair company.


    Clog in the gas valve outlet. The culprits for this issue could be corrosion, grease, or carbon. This could be especially common in an older unit. When this part does not get enough current to open, you will experience a low burner rate or agonizingly slow heating times. You will likely need a skilled appliance repairman to solve this issue.


    Defective heating element. Many ovens have more than one heating element, usually one on top and one on the bottom. The one on the bottom is called the baking element. If one is not working properly, your oven may get warm but not hot and certainly not reach the temperature you set. This could be the result of a burned-out element or bad contact where it is connected. A bad element could manifest itself with blisters, bubbles or even breaking in two. When the contact is bad, they may be discolored or pockmarked. It’s important to note that if you have a bad contact, both the contact and the element will need to be replaced. This is something you may be able to tackle yourself but if you have any doubt in your abilities, it’s a smarter idea to contact a repairman. Making mistakes could void any warranties you have.


    Problem with the heat sensor probe. You can find this part on the back wall of your oven, near the top. It looks like a piece of metal. Once your oven is turned on and gets to the desired temperature, this probe tells the relay to cut the power. If you then try to restart your oven while it’s cooling down, the probe will send a false hot reading, so the relay will turn it off. It’s almost like the probe gets stuck in this cycle. One solution might be to let the oven cool completely before starting it again. If the problem persists, it may be time to call an appliance repair technician.


    Faulty oven door. To work properly, the oven door must be fully closed. Otherwise, heat can escape and you will experience longer cooking times or food that is unevenly cooked. The problem might be caused by defective hinges or inadequate seals. This will need to be addressed right away. If you can find the right parts and have the right tools, this is a job that could be handled by a do-it-yourselfer. Others will need to call in a top-quality appliance repair shop.


    Electrical issue. When dealing with anything electrical, it’s always unpredictable. This could be the answer if other troubleshooting efforts have not solved your problem. You may have to call an electrician or your local utility company. However, instead of spinning your wheels trying to discover which one to call, contact a reputable appliance repair company first. They will steer you in the right direction.


    A Viking oven is not cheap. It’s an investment in the future and beauty of your home and likely the most attractive feature of your luxury kitchen. Don’t trust its repair to just anyone.


    Make sure you choose a company with experience fixing a Viking oven not heating up. Look for an authorized Viking repair company that can diagnose your issue and provide the best service to fix the problem.

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