How to replace a thermostat in an Oven: A Guide To Thermostat replacement

An oven thermostat is a crucial component in the proper functioning of any oven. It regulates the temperature and ensures that your food is cooked evenly and thoroughly. However, like any other appliance, oven thermostats can wear out over time and may need to be replaced. Failure to maintain the oven thermostat can lead to inaccurate temperature readings, uneven cooking, and can even be a potential fire hazard. This is where oven thermostat replacement is needed.

In this article, we'll provide a step-by-step guide on how to replace an oven thermostat, including a cost breakdown of the parts. By following these instructions, you can ensure that your oven is running smoothly and cooking your meals to perfection.

The common reasons for needing to replace an oven thermostat

Before we find out how to replace a thermostat in an oven, let us look at the reasons that require replacement. As we know, the oven thermostat is a critical component that regulates the temperature inside an oven. Over time, it can become faulty, leading to inaccurate temperature readings or failure to maintain a constant temperature. If your oven is not heating up properly or taking longer to heat than usual, it's time for oven thermostat replacement.

Another reason to replace an oven thermostat is when the oven is overheating or not reaching the desired temperature. It could be due to a faulty thermostat that is not properly regulating the temperature. In some cases, the thermostat may be calibrated incorrectly, causing it to read a higher or lower temperature than what is actually inside the oven. In either case, replacing thermostat that is faulty is necessary to ensure that the oven can function properly and safely.

Cost to replace thermostat in an oven

Oven thermostat replacement can be a costly endeavor, depending on the type and brand of the oven, as well as the complexity of the replacement. On average, replacing a new thermostat cost ranges from $100 to $300. However, the price of a thermostat can vary widely depending on several factors.

The type of oven is one of the primary factors that determine the cost of replacing thermostat in an oven. A basic oven thermostat replacement can cost as low as $100 for a standard electric oven while replacing the thermostat in a high-end, double-oven range can cost up to $300 or more. Gas oven thermostats tend to be more expensive to repair due to their complexity and additional safety features.

The brand of the oven is another factor that determines the cost to replace thermostat in an oven. A replacement thermostat for a high-end brand, such as Vulcan, Star, or Imperial can be much more expensive than a standard brand like Hobart or Pitco. 

The complexity of the replacement also affects the cost of replacing thermostat in an oven. Some ovens require more time and effort to access the thermostat, which can increase the labor cost of the repair. For example, replacing the thermostat in a built-in wall oven may require removing the oven from the wall, which can add to the cost.

Additional Oven Costs to Consider

Oven repair costs are significantly influenced by the type of oven, the extent of the repair, and the average cost of labor in your area. Costs will vary depending on the brand, age, and specific features, as they do with any appliance repairs.

Type of Oven

The sort of oven you have in your restaurant will determine how much the new part will cost and how much knowledge will be needed to get it working again. The average cost range for different types of ovens is:

Electric ovens: $100 – $250 on average

Gas Oven: $100 – $600 on average

Steam Oven: $200 – $600 on average

Pizza Oven: $150 – $600 on average

Look at our Commercial Oven Buyer Guide, which provides essential information and helpful tips to assist you in making the right decision when purchasing an Commercial Oven for your business.

Type of Repair 

Oven repairs can involve anything from a sticky door that won't open properly to an oven that never even heats up. The kind of repair will determine how long it will take your specialist to locate and resolve the problem and how many parts they will need to order. Depending on the oven's problem, some common repair types are listed below.

Labor Costs

The typical hourly rate for oven repair professionals is $50 to $200. If a professional needs to travel to your home, be prepared to pay a flat rate; this cost may be slightly reduced if the professional can explain the problem to you over the phone. An electrician's hourly rate is from $50 to $100 if your oven especially has electrical problems, whereas a gas line specialist's ranges from $45 to $150 if they are needed.

Oven Repair Costs by Parts

You will be charged based on the part that has to be replaced. There are significant differences in the price of the part and the time required to fix or replace it. See some of the most frequently replaced oven parts and their associated parts and labor costs.

There are a number of additional significant aspects that can affect the cost of an oven when consulting your local oven repair firm. Warranty coverage may reduce the costs that are your responsibility, but fees and associated cooktop problems may increase the cost.

Tips for getting the best price:

• Shop around: Get quotes from multiple repair professionals to compare the thermostat cost or any other parts of the oven.
• Consider DIY: If you're handy, you may be able to replace the thermostat yourself and save on labor costs. At PartsFe, we offer oven parts such as doors, gaskets, and thermostats with prices ranging from $50 to $100 or more. We partner with a wide range of brands and companies which gives us a solid advantage over retail shops that sell limited models of thermostats. Our products come well packaged and with an elaborate manual. These guidebooks can help you in installing the oven parts by yourself, helping you save any additional labor charges. 
• Look for discounts: Some repair professionals may offer discounts for first-time customers or referrals.
• Maintain your oven: Regular maintenance can help prevent the need for costly repairs in the first place. Clean your oven regularly and have it serviced by a professional every few years.

How to replace a thermostat in an Oven?

Replacing a thermostat in your oven might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, it's a job you can tackle yourself. Here is the step-by-step process to learn how to replace a thermostat in an oven hassle-freely:

• Turn off the power supply: Before starting any work, turn off the power supply to the oven by switching off the circuit breaker.
• Replacing old thermostat: Access the back of the oven by removing the back panel or opening the control panel. Locate the thermostat and disconnect the wires to remove thermostat. Remove the screws holding the thermostat in place and gently pull it out.
• Install the new thermostat: Position the new thermostat in the same place where the old one was. Secure it with the screws and connect the wires according to the manufacturer's instructions.
• Test the new thermostat: Turn the power supply back on and test the new thermostat to ensure it's working properly. If it's not working, double-check the wiring and consult the manufacturer's instructions.
• Reassemble the oven: Once you're confident that the new thermostat is working properly, reassemble the oven by replacing the back panel or control panel.

The price of a thermostat for an oven can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of oven you have, the complexity of the installation process, and the cost of the thermostat itself. 

In general, the labor cost to install a thermostat in an oven can range from $100 to $300, including both the cost of the thermostat and the installation service fee. If you're handy with tools and have some experience with appliance repair, you may be able to save some money by installing the thermostat yourself. 

How to test a oven thermostat?

After installing or replacing a thermostat in your commercial oven, it's crucial to ensure that it's functioning correctly to maintain consistent and accurate temperatures for cooking. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to test your commercial oven thermostat:

• Preheat the Oven: Turn on the oven and set it to a specific temperature, say 350°F (177°C).
• Use an Oven Thermometer: Place an oven thermometer on the oven rack and allow the oven to preheat fully.
• Monitor Temperature: Keep an eye on the oven thermometer to see if it matches the set temperature. It should maintain a consistent temperature.
• Check for Variations: Observe the thermometer over time to see if the temperature fluctuates. It should stay within a few degrees of the set temperature.
• Repeat Testing: Test the oven at different temperature settings to ensure accuracy across the range.

If you notice that oven thermostat not working due to temperature variations, it may indicate a problem with the thermostat. Professional service may be required for calibration.

How to troubleshoot and fix common oven thermostat problems?

An oven thermostat is responsible for regulating the temperature of your oven, ensuring that your food is cooked to perfection. However, sometimes it may malfunction, causing problems such as overheating, underheating, or inaccurate temperature readings. Here are some troubleshooting tips to help you fix common oven thermostat problems:

Overheating:

Oven overheating may be because the thermostat is not functioning properly. Check the temperature sensor and the thermostat itself for any signs of damage or wear. If the thermostat is damaged, it may need to be replaced. You can also try recalibrating the thermostat to ensure that it is functioning correctly.

Underheating:

If your oven is not heating up to the desired temperature, the thermostat may be faulty. Check the thermostat for any signs of damage or wear. You can also try recalibrating the thermostat to ensure that it is functioning correctly. If the problem persists, it may be necessary to replace the thermostat.

Inaccurate temperature readings: If your oven is displaying inaccurate temperature readings, it may be because the thermostat is not functioning properly. Check the temperature sensor and the thermostat itself for any signs of damage or wear. You can also try recalibrating the thermostat to ensure that it is functioning correctly.

How to maintain and prolong the life of your oven thermostat?

Follow these tips to maintain and prolong the life of your oven thermostat and enjoy years of trouble-free cooking with your oven:

Clean it regularly

Food and grease can accumulate around the thermostat, leading to inaccurate temperature readings and potentially damaging the component. To clean your oven thermostat, turn off the oven and remove the oven racks. Use a damp cloth to wipe around the thermostat, taking care not to get water or cleaning solution on the thermostat itself.

Additionally, you should inspect your oven thermostat regularly for signs of damage or wear. Check for loose wires or connections, and make sure the thermostat is securely attached to the oven. If you notice any damage or wear, contact a professional repair service to have your oven thermostat repaired or replaced.

Handle it properly

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for use and avoid slamming the oven door or using excessive force when turning the thermostat knob. If your oven has a self-cleaning feature, use it sparingly, as the high temperatures can damage the thermostat and other components.

It's also important to avoid using abrasive cleaners or harsh chemicals on the thermostat, as they can damage the component and cause it to malfunction. Use only mild soap and water to clean around the thermostat.

Identifying potential problems early

Even with proper cleaning and handling, your oven thermostat may eventually begin to experience issues. By identifying potential problems early, you can prevent more serious damage and costly repairs. Some signs to watch for include:

Difficulty adjusting temperature

If you have trouble turning the thermostat knob or if it feels loose or wobbly, the thermostat may need to be repaired or replaced.

Excessive heat or smoke

If you notice excessive heat or smoke coming from your oven, it may indicate a problem with the thermostat or other components. Turn off the oven immediately and contact a professional repair service.

Error codes or warning lights

Many modern ovens have error codes or warning lights that can alert you to potential problems with the thermostat or other components. If you notice an error code or warning light, consult your oven's user manual for guidance on how to address the issue.

In conclusion, replacing thermostat in your commercial ovens can be a simple and cost-effective way to ensure safe and efficient cooking. Neglecting proper maintenance of an oven thermostat can lead to unevenly cooked or undercooked food, wasted energy, and even dangerous situations like fires. While the cost to replace thermostat and professional installation can vary, it is a small investment compared to the potential risks and expenses of an improperly functioning oven. By following the step-by-step guide and cost breakdown provided in this article, you can replace your oven thermostat with confidence and enjoy reliable and consistent cooking for years to come.

 FAQs:

 Can I replace my thermostat myself?

Yes, you can replace your thermostat yourself if you're comfortable working with electrical components and follow safety precautions.

How to install a new thermostat in your Commercial Ovens?

Installing a new thermostat in your commercial oven is easy. First, disconnect the power, access the old thermostat, replace it with the new one, reconnect wires, and test the oven for proper functionality. If you're unsure, consult your oven's user manual or seek professional assistance for guidance.

Who can install a new thermostat? 

When it comes to installing a new thermostat for a commercial oven, it's recommended to have a qualified technician or appliance repair specialist handle the job to ensure proper functioning and compliance with safety standards.

How much does it cost to replace a thermostat in my commercial oven?

The cost to replace a thermostat in a commercial oven can vary widely based on factors like the oven's make and model, the complexity of the installation, and the labor rates of technicians. On average, it may range from $100 to $300, but it's advisable to obtain quotes from professionals for a more accurate estimate.

Do i need an electrician to replace a thermostat?

While it's possible to replace a thermostat yourself, if you're uncertain about electrical work, it's advisable to consult an electrician to ensure a safe and accurate installation.