Kenmore Gas Oven Temperature Control is Broken

Test the Thermostat

• If your oven's temperature control doesn't seem to be working, you may have a thermostat problem. The thermostat regulates the temperature inside the oven and signals the gas valve to open or close, depending on the oven's temperature. Unplug the oven and consult your owner's manual for the location of the thermostat in your Kenmore oven. It may be behind the oven knobs or behind an access panel at the front or rear of the oven. Once you access the thermostat, you can test it for continuity with a multimeter. If there is no continuity at any terminal point of the thermostat, you will need to replace it.

Clocks

• Kenmore ovens have electronic clocks that keep track of the time when you set the oven for a timed bake or broil. These clocks turn the oven off once the timer rings. Some models have an electronic keypad instead of a clock. In any case, if these clocks stop working, the oven won't heat up or turn off properly. The only solution to this problem is to replace the clock.

Thermocouple Issue

• Even if the thermostat works properly, the oven won't get heat if the thermocouple doesn't work. The thermocouple is a heat sensor attached to the gas valve. When you turn on the oven, the pilot flame expands; when it reaches a certain temperature, the thermocouple allows the gas valve to open so that gas can flow to the oven. If the thermocouple is misaligned or dirty, it won't work properly, and your oven won't get the heat it needs.

Ignitor Problem

• If your Kenmore stove's ignitor doesn't work correctly, the oven won't light when you turn it on. Most ignitors are electric, so an ignitor problem may be caused by a short circuit within the electrical system, or the ignitor may simply be defective. You can test the continuity of the ignitor with a multimeter. If you don't feel comfortable testing or replacing the ignitor yourself, contact an authorized Sears service center.