A gas oven that won't heat is more than inconvenient - it can also indicate safety issues that need immediate attention. This guide walks you through the diagnostic process, explains what's safe to check yourself, and helps you understand when professional repair is essential.
Nika Appliance Repair has serviced over 1,800 gas ovens throughout Toronto since 2017. Our technicians are TSSA-certified for gas appliance work and carry the specialized tools needed for safe diagnosis and repair.
Why Your Gas Oven Won't Heat
The Igniter: Most Common Culprit
Gas oven igniters are responsible for 80% of no-heat complaints. Here's how they work and fail:
- How it works: The igniter glows hot (1,800°F+) which opens the safety valve and ignites gas
- Weak igniter: Glows orange but can't reach temperature to open valve - takes 60+ seconds
- Dead igniter: No glow at all when bake is selected
- Cracked igniter: Visible damage from thermal stress breaks the circuit
Gas Safety Valve Issues
The safety valve only opens when the igniter proves it's hot enough to ignite gas safely.
- Valve coil failure: Electromagnetic coils wear out, won't respond to igniter
- Stuck valve: Internal mechanism jammed closed
- Calibration drift: Valve requires higher amperage than igniter provides
Burner and Orifice Problems
- Clogged burner ports: Food debris blocks gas distribution
- Orifice blockage: Spider webs or debris in gas orifice (common after storage)
- Burner misalignment: Flames don't reach igniter location
Temperature Sensor Failures
- Open circuit: Sensor wire broken, oven won't heat past initial ignition
- Resistance drift: Inaccurate readings cause over/under heating
- Sensor position: Moved or bent sensor gives wrong temperature
🔥 Gas Safety Priority
If you smell gas at any point, do not attempt any diagnosis. Turn off gas supply at the shutoff valve, ventilate your home, and call your gas utility or a licensed technician immediately.
Safe Homeowner Checks
Step 1: Verify Gas Supply
- Check that the gas shutoff valve behind oven is parallel to pipe (open)
- Verify stovetop burners ignite normally - if not, gas supply issue
- Confirm gas meter is functioning and account is active
Step 2: Observe the Igniter
- Remove oven racks for visibility
- Locate igniter (usually back center of oven floor or on burner assembly)
- Turn oven to Bake 350°F
- Watch igniter through oven window or door slightly ajar
- A healthy igniter glows bright orange and gas ignites within 30-60 seconds
- Weak igniter glows dim orange/yellow and takes 90+ seconds or fails
Step 3: Check Temperature Accuracy
- Place oven thermometer on center rack
- Set oven to 350°F and wait 20 minutes
- Compare thermometer to set temperature
- Variance over 25°F indicates sensor or calibration issue
Step 4: Inspect Burner Assembly
- When oven is cool, remove bottom panel (usually 2-4 screws)
- Visually inspect burner for debris in flame ports
- Check that igniter shows no visible cracks
- Look for any signs of rust or corrosion
Need Professional Help with Oven Repair?
Our certified technicians are available for same-day service across Toronto and the GTA!
Call (437) 747-6737Gas Oven Repair Costs in Toronto
| Component | Cost Range | Service Time |
|---|---|---|
| Oven Igniter | $175-$245 | 45-60 min |
| Gas Safety Valve | $220-$320 | 60-90 min |
| Temperature Sensor | $135-$195 | 30-45 min |
| Burner Assembly | $165-$240 | 45-75 min |
| Thermostat | $195-$280 | 60-90 min |
| Control Board | $285-$420 | 60-90 min |
Gas appliance repairs must be performed by TSSA-licensed technicians in Ontario. Our diagnostic fee is $95, waived when you proceed with repair.
When to Call a Professional
While some oven issues can be resolved with DIY troubleshooting, certain situations require professional expertise:
- Electrical problems: Any repair involving wiring, control boards, or high-voltage components
- Gas appliance issues: All repairs on gas appliances should be done by licensed technicians
- Refrigerant systems: Sealed system repairs require EPA certification
- Persistent problems: Issues that return after DIY attempts indicate deeper problems
- Under warranty: DIY repairs can void manufacturer coverage
- Water damage risk: Leak repairs need proper diagnosis to prevent flood damage
Why Choose Nika Appliance Repair
- Same-Day Service: We understand appliance emergencies can't wait
- Certified Technicians: Factory-trained on all major brands
- Transparent Pricing: Upfront quotes with no hidden fees
- 90-Day Warranty: All repairs backed by comprehensive warranty
- Parts in Stock: Common parts on trucks for first-visit repairs
- Serving All Toronto: From Downtown to North York, Scarborough to Etobicoke
Areas We Serve
We provide expert oven repair throughout the Greater Toronto Area:
- Downtown Toronto
- North York
- Scarborough
- Etobicoke
- Mississauga
- Brampton
- Vaughan
- Richmond Hill
- Markham
- Oakville
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my gas oven igniter glow but the oven doesn't heat?
The igniter must draw 3.2-3.6 amps to open the safety valve. A glowing but weak igniter doesn't pull enough current. The safety valve stays closed as a protection against unburned gas. Replacing the igniter resolves this in nearly all cases.
Is it safe to replace a gas oven igniter myself?
While the igniter itself is an electrical component, accessing it involves working around gas connections. In Ontario, any work that could affect gas flow must be done by TSSA-certified technicians. We recommend professional replacement for safety and warranty compliance.
My oven heats but doesn't reach temperature - is that the igniter too?
Probably not. If gas ignites but temperature is wrong, the issue is usually the temperature sensor (oven probe) or calibration. The sensor sends resistance readings to the control board to regulate heat. Sensor replacement typically resolves this.
How long do gas oven igniters last?
Quality igniters last 5-8 years with normal use. Self-cleaning cycles stress igniters due to extreme heat (800-900°F). If you use self-clean frequently, igniter life may be shorter. Some homeowners see 10+ years with careful use.
Should I repair or replace my 15-year-old gas oven?
For a single component failure like an igniter ($175-$245), repair makes sense. If you're facing multiple repairs (igniter plus valve plus sensor), the combined cost might approach 50% of replacement cost. We provide honest assessments to help you decide.
Get Your Oven Fixed Today
Don't let fix gas oven problems disrupt your daily routine. Whether you need a quick diagnosis or a complete repair, Nika Appliance Repair is here to help. Our experienced technicians provide honest assessments, transparent pricing, and quality repairs backed by our 90-day warranty.
Schedule Your Repair Today
Same-day service available. Call now for expert oven repair!
Call (437) 747-6737