My Oven Sporadically Overheats

Temperature Sensor

• A faulty temperature sensor may be causing the oven to sporadically overheat. In this instance, the sensor is not able to determine the proper temperature inside the oven. As a result, it does not close the circuit, so the oven temperature continues to rise. Initially, this may happen randomly, but eventually the sensor will stop working completely. Replacing the temperature sensor should resolve the problem.

Oven Control Knob

• The oven may be overheating because of an issue with the controls. Depending on the model, the oven is controlled by either a knob or an electronic panel. If you have a knob-controlled oven, be sure that the knob is securely attached and is turning to the correct temperature. If the knob appears to be intact, you may just need to recalibrate it. Remove the knob and turn it over to access the calibration screw. Adjust the screw with a screwdriver by turning the knob to the minus position to decrease the temperature, or to the positive position to increase the temperature.

Oven Control Panel

• Some ovens have an electronic control panel, which may be defective. If the electronic controls are malfunctioning, the oven will perform erratically, and it may sometimes overheat. You can switch the panel to “service mode” to troubleshoot the controls or make temperature adjustments. Directions vary depending on the oven model, so consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions. Also, if there has been a power outage, this may have caused a glitch in the control panel. If so, resetting the oven’s breaker, and unplugging the oven for a few minutes, may restore the appliance to its normal operating status.

Other Considerations

• There are other possible reasons for an oven that overheats sporadically. If the door seal has been compromised and is no longer tight, heat will escape through the door. As a result, the oven will not be able to determine the true temperature, and it will overheat sporadically until the seal is replaced. In addition, a clogged vent will cause the oven to randomly overheat; cleaning the vent will restore a regulated temperature. Also, warns the Amana Appliance Company, cooking refrigerated food that hasn't been allowed to reach the proper room temperature will result in overcooking. Using aluminum foil and dark-colored pans will also cause baking irregularities that can mimic overheating.