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Troubleshooting a Kenmore Oven That’s Not Heating Properly

Technically Reviewed by Spark Service PRO Editorial Contributors on Oct 28, 2025 | Written by Gaya Chudnovski

An oven is the heart of any kitchen, essential for creating delicious meals. When it stops working or doesn’t heat properly, frustration is inevitable. If your Kenmore electric stove isn’t reaching the right temperature or has completely stopped functioning, swift action is essential to restore its performance.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore common causes behind the failure of Kenmore ovens, with a focus on electric stove repair, while also touching on gas models. From simple fixes to signs you may need professional help, we’ve got you covered.

When your Kenmore electric stove falters, timely repairs are crucial to keep your kitchen running smoothly.

– Oleg C. CEO, Spark Service PRO

User-friendly table summarizing the troubleshooting steps and solutions for a Kenmore oven not heating properly:

Now, let's take a closer look at common causes.

Common Causes of a Kenmore Oven Not Heating

Before delving into Kenmore oven troubleshooting steps, it's important to understand the potential reasons why your appliance might not be heating correctly. Here are some common causes:

• Faulty Igniter (Gas appliances): If your Kenmore gas oven is not heating properly, the igniter may be the reason for malfunctioning. The igniter is the part of the burner that ignites; if it doesn't work, the appliance won't get any hotter.
• Heating Element Issues (Electric Ovens): If a new Kenmore gas range oven is not working, the source of the problem could be the elements that generate heat. These elements can burn out, become corrupted, or get into an open circuit, making it impossible to reach the desired threshold.
• Temperature Sensor Malfunction: In both gas and electric models of the Kenmore brand, temperature sensors are used to carry out the heating process via accurate regulation. If the temperature sensors are working fine, the oven cannot maintain the desired temperature.

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Troubleshooting Steps for a Kenmore Oven Not Heating

Now that you understand the potential causes, let's dive into the troubleshooting steps to resolve the issue of your Kenmore appliance not working:

1. Check the Power Supply: Ascertain that the appliance is well-connected to the power socket and has power. See if it is a gas oven, the gas supply is connected, and the gas supply is working.
2. Inspect the igniter (gas ovens): Regarding gas ones, it is important to look at the igniter that is not working visually. If it is not glowing and not igniting the gas, it may need to be substituted. Another option to consider is the cleaning of the igniter using a bristle brush or compressed air if the Kenmore Elite oven is not heating.
3. Examine the heating elements (electric ovens): And for electric ones, visually check for heating element deterioration or if we can see any burns done to them. If the parts look new, you may also do a continuity test with a multimeter. Replace any burned heating elements.
4. Check the Temperature Sensor: Try the ohmmeter or multimeter to check the sensor's resistance when the temperature is high and low. In case a reading doesn't agree with the manufacturer's specs, the sensor may be faulty and needs to be replaced.
5. Inspect the Thermostat: The first step to controlling the central heating system is to bypass the thermostat with a multimeter. If the Kenmore oven is not heating to the correct temperature, this could indicate that the thermostat must be replaced.
6. Examine the Control Board: If all other units, including the switchboard, seem to be functioning properly, it is very likely that the problem lies with the control board. This solution will most often entail getting a mechanic or visiting the Kenmore authorized service center.
7. Clean the Cavity: After long-term exposure, the grease and food debris start to cumulate, and the heating of the appliance is disturbed. A well-cleaned oven is a must. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for an efficient cleaning.
8. Check for Airflow Obstructions: Make certain that there are no impediments obstructing the airflow in the appliance, as this can be the cause of blocked air flow and result in improper heating performance of the oven.
9. Inspect Wiring and Connections (Electric Ovens): Always check any electrical power cord on electric options for the presence of damage, loose connections, or frayed wires before plugging in the appliance if the Kenmore electric oven is not heating. Ensure that any damaged wires and connectors are fixed or replaced.

Additional Tips and Considerations

If the steps above didn’t resolve the issue, consider these additional tips to help you determine the cause of your Kenmore oven not heating properly:

• User Manual Reference: Before attempting any repairs, consult the Kenmore appliance manual for appliance-specific instructions and safety guidelines.
• Warranty Understanding: If your oven is still under warranty, contact Kenmore or an authorized service center for assistance. Attempting DIY repairs may void warranty coverage.
• Maintenance Routine: Regular cleaning and maintenance reduce the likelihood of future issues. Clean the device interior, check for obstructions, and ensure proper airflow.

By following the steps and choosing the means of troubleshooting, you may sometimes solve the problem of your heating element not working properly. Nevertheless, if the challenge extends or seems complicated, ensure that the professional expertise of an appliance repair technician is sought to have a long-lasting and safe solution.

If you have questions about Kenmore appliances or require a diagnosis visit, please click the request service link or call 888-242-0777 today. We offer our appliance repair services in Barrie, Simcoe County, Toronto, and all of the GTA, and same-day electric or gas appliances are also available.