Oven Convection Fan Not Working? 6 Causes and What to Do
A convection fan that will not spin is usually a failed fan motor, a seized blade, a door switch or a relay on the control board. Here is how to narrow it down.
Read the guideWhy is my electric burner not heating?
An electric burner usually stops heating because the element has burned out, the coil is not seated in its socket, the burner switch (called an infinite switch) has failed, or a wire has come loose. On induction cooktops, the pan may not be magnetic, or a power board may have failed.
Start by noting which type of cooktop you have, since the causes differ.
What causes problems on coil burners?
- Loose coil: unplug the coil from its socket with the cooktop off and cool, then push it back in firmly.
- Burned-out coil: look for blisters, cracks, or a section that never glows. Swap it with a same-size burner to test.
- Damaged socket: if the socket terminals are burned or loose, the coil cannot make contact.
- Failed infinite switch: if a good coil still will not heat in that spot, the switch may be the cause.
What causes problems on smooth-top glass cooktops?
On glass cooktops, one cold zone usually means a failed radiant element, a bad infinite switch, or a limiter that has failed. A burner stuck on high almost always points to a failed switch. These parts are under the glass, so they need a technician.
A hot surface light that stays on, an error code on the display, or a burner that cycles on and off far too often are other signs of a failed control or sensor.
What about induction cooktops?
Induction cooktops only heat magnetic cookware. If a magnet does not stick to the bottom of your pan, it will not work on induction. If compatible pans still do not heat, the power board, coil, or fan may have failed.
- Test your pan with a fridge magnet. It should stick firmly.
- Make sure the pan covers most of the cooking zone.
- Check for a control lock setting or error code on the display.
- Listen for the cooling fan. If it does not run, the cooktop may shut off to protect itself.
Many Mountain View homes are switching to induction. PG&E's guide to the pros and cons of induction cooking explains how it works and how to try an induction cooktop at home before you buy.
Burner stuck on high or a cracked glass top? Turn off the breaker and call us right away.
How do you stay safe while checking an electric cooktop?
Turn all burners off and let the cooktop cool before you touch any part. Never reach under the glass or into the cooktop wiring. If you feel a shock from the range, turn off the breaker and have it checked before using it again.
The Electrical Safety Foundation's kitchen safety tips explain why a shock from a major appliance can mean a serious wiring problem. It is also worth checking the CPSC recall list for your cooktop or range model.
When should you call a technician?
Call if a burner will not heat after you reseat or swap the coil, if a burner is stuck on high, if the glass is cracked, or if an induction cooktop shows an error code. Our stove and cooktop repair service fixes coil, glass, and induction cooktops from GE, Whirlpool, Frigidaire, Samsung, LG, Bosch, Thermador, and Wolf. See typical prices in our repair cost table.
Have a gas cooktop instead? Read our guide on gas burners that won't light.
Frequently asked questions
Why is one burner on my electric stove not working?
On coil stoves, the burner may be loose or burned out, or the socket may be damaged. On glass tops, a failed radiant element or infinite switch is common. On induction, the pan may not be compatible.
Why is my burner stuck on high?
A burner that only heats on high, or will not turn off, usually has a failed infinite switch. Turn off the breaker and call for repair, since the burner cannot be controlled.
Is a cracked glass cooktop safe to use?
No. Stop using it and turn off the power at the breaker. A crack can let spills reach live parts underneath. The glass top needs to be replaced.