Absolute Repairs
Absolute Repairs
Whether the oven won't heat at all, only the grill works, or it stopped after a power cut, here's what usually causes it.
Quick answer: The most common causes are a failed heating element (bake, grill or fan element), a faulty thermostat, a failed selector switch or timer, or a failed fan motor in fan ovens. Many built-in ovens also won't heat until the clock is set after a power outage, so check that first.
| Symptom | Likely cause | First check |
|---|---|---|
| Oven not heating at all | Clock not set; element; thermostat; selector switch; thermal cut-out | Set the clock, check the breaker |
| Only the grill works | Bake (bottom) element or selector switch | Look for a break or blister on the element |
| Fan oven cooks unevenly | Fan element or fan motor | Check whether the fan turns |
| Oven too hot or burning food | Thermostat or temperature sensor | Compare with an oven thermometer |
| Trips the power when switched on | Shorted element or damaged wiring | Don't keep resetting. Book a technician. |
If a gas burner clicks but won't light, the igniter or spark switch may be faulty, or the burner may be wet or not seated properly. If a flame goes out when you let go of the knob, the thermocouple (flame safety device) has failed. That's a safety part and must be replaced, not bypassed. If you smell gas, turn off the supply, open windows and don't use any switches.
Ovens are usually worth repairing, because most faults are elements, thermostats and switches. Built-in ovens from Bosch, Siemens, Smeg, Defy and Elba are almost always worth repairing, because a replacement also has to fit your existing cabinet.
Call or WhatsApp 072 686 0472. Every job starts with a flat R350 diagnostic call-out across Johannesburg, Pretoria and the East Rand.
By Absolute Repairs · Updated September 2026
Many built-in ovens need the clock to be set before they'll heat after a power cut. If it still won't heat after setting the time, a surge may have damaged the timer, control board or an element.
Usually the bake (bottom) element has failed, or the selector switch isn't sending power to it.
Every oven repair starts with a flat R350 call-out fee, which covers travel, diagnosis and a written quote. Elements and switches are the most common and affordable repairs.
Yes. We repair gas hobs and cookers, including igniters, spark switches, burners and thermocouples.
Tell us your suburb, the brand and model, and the fault. Standard R350 diagnostic call-out.
📞 Call 072 686 0472 💬 WhatsApp UsOr email info@absoluterepairs.co.za