GE Ovens: 7 Common Problems (with solutions)

GE is the way to go when it comes to purchasing an oven.

After all, GE ovens come equipped with loads of features alongside being quite reliable in terms of functionality.

However, machines are susceptible to failure no matter how reliable they are.

If you are facing issues with your GE oven, don’t fret, as you will find a solution below.

GE Ovens: 7 Common Problems (with solutions)

Our list of the top 7 most common GE Ovens problems with solutions.

This is not to say that if you buy a GE Oven, you will have these problems.

These are the most commonly experienced problems.

Not too dissimilar to other oven brands.

GE Oven Not Working

GE oven not working is most likely due to a bad power cable connecting to the outlet, a malfunctioning power socket, or a fuse that has tripped the circuit breaker could all be to blame.

No matter what buttons you press on the control panel, the oven won’t seem to work.

In such a situation, try out the following solutions.

Possible Solution(s):

Check the Power Supply:
    • Ensure that the oven is properly plugged into a functioning power outlet. Try the power supply by using another appliance in the power socket. If the power supply works, then it’s an issue with the  GE Oven. If does not work, then it’s an issue with the power supply.
    • Check for any tripped circuit breakers or blown fuses in your home’s electrical panel.
Control Panel and Settings:
    • Confirm that the oven is set to the correct cooking mode (bake, broil, etc.) and temperature.
    • Verify that the timer is not accidentally set, preventing the oven from turning on.
    • Inspect the control panel for any error codes or unusual displays. Refer to your user manual for guidance on interpreting these code
Door Issues:
    • Ensure that the oven door is securely closed. Some GE ovens have safety mechanisms that prevent operation with an open door.
    • Check the door gasket for any damage or wear. A faulty gasket may affect the oven’s ability to maintain the desired temperature.
Thermal Fuse:
    • Locate the thermal fuse, usually found on the back of the oven or near the control panel.
    • Test the thermal fuse for continuity using a multimeter. If it’s blown, replace it with a new one.
Igniter and Gas Supply (Gas Ovens):
    • If you have a gas oven, check if the gas supply is turned on.
    • Inspect the oven’s igniter for any signs of damage or malfunction. A faulty igniter may prevent the oven from heating properly.
Heating Element (Electric Ovens):
    • For electric ovens, check the heating element for any visible damage or signs of wear.
    • Test the heating element for continuity using a multimeter. If it’s faulty, replace it.

Oven Sensor:

    • The oven sensor monitors the temperature inside the oven. A malfunctioning sensor can lead to temperature irregularities.
    • Test the oven sensor for accuracy using a temperature probe. If it’s out of range, replace it.
Control Board:
    • Inspect the control board for any burnt areas, loose connections, or visible damage.
    • If the control board is suspected to be faulty, consider consulting a professional technician for further diagnosis and replacement.

If the troubleshooting steps above did not resolve the issue, you will need to contact a technician.

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GE Oven Not Heating

GE oven, not heating is often caused by faulty ignition, worn heating elements, or objects obstructing the convection fan. 

If your food is taking too long to cook or not cooking at all, your oven might have a heating issue with your oven.

You can be certain about this by cooking a batch of food as a test to check the heating.

To fix your oven, follow the solutions mentioned below.

Possible Solution(s):

Check Power Supply:

The first step in troubleshooting your GE oven is to ensure that it’s receiving power. Verify that the oven is plugged in securely and that the circuit breaker or fuse controlling the oven is not tripped.

If there’s an issue with the power supply, the oven won’t function correctly.

Inspect the Heating Element:

The heating element is a crucial component responsible for generating heat in the oven. For an electric oven, it’s located at the bottom. In the case of a gas oven, the bake and broil elements are located at the top.

Examine the element for any visible signs of damage, such as breaks, burns, or blisters. If you notice any issues, it may need to be replaced.

Test the Oven Temperature Sensor

The temperature sensor monitors the temperature inside the oven and signals the heating elements to turn on or off. A malfunctioning sensor can result in inaccurate temperature readings or prevent the oven from heating up.

You can use a multimeter to test the sensor for continuity. If it’s defective, consider replacing it.

Verify the Igniter in Gas Ovens

If you have a gas oven, check the igniter. A faulty igniter can prevent the oven from reaching the desired temperature. It’s typically located near the oven burner.

Look for signs of wear or damage. If the igniter doesn’t glow or has a weak glow, it may need to be replaced.

Inspect the Thermal Fuse

The thermal fuse is a safety device that shuts off power to the oven if it overheats. If the fuse is blown, the oven won’t heat up. Locate the thermal fuse, usually near the control board, and check for continuity using a multimeter. If the fuse is faulty, replace it with a new one.

Evaluate the Control Board

The control board regulates various functions in the oven, including the heating elements. Inspect the board for any visible signs of damage, such as burnt areas or loose connections.

If the control board is malfunctioning, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

Check the Thermostat

The thermostat monitors and regulates the oven temperature. Use a multimeter to test its continuity. If the thermostat is defective, it may not send the proper signals to the heating elements. Replace the thermostat if necessary.

Professional Assistance

If you’ve gone through the troubleshooting steps and the GE oven still isn’t heating up, it’s recommended to consult a professional technician.

They have the expertise and tools to diagnose and fix complex issues that may be beyond the scope of basic troubleshooting.

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GE Oven Taking Too Long to Heat Up

A common problem mainly with old GE ovens is they can take too long to heat up.

Slow heating of an electric oven can also indicate a variety of issues with the appliance.

The likely cause of the oven taking too long to heat up is hot air leaking from the oven.

Possible Solution(s):

Damaged oven door seal: The seal is attached to the oven door and ensures that when the door is closed, it forms an airtight seal.

This allows the oven to trap all of its hot air. When the seal is damaged, hot air escapes and the healing process is delayed.

Oven door hinges that are damaged: Hinges allow the door to open and close easily while remaining perfectly aligned with the rest of the appliance.

When they become bent or broken, the door is unable to close securely, preventing the oven from trapping heat inside.

As a result, hot air escapes and the oven takes an inordinate amount of time to reach cooking temperatures.

If you have found your GE oven to be properly sealed, then it’s likely to be a result of a power supply issue, faulty main control board, or heating element being worn out.

If that’s the case best to contact a technician to check it out.

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GE Oven Baking Unevenly

At times, you will notice your oven-cooked food to be unevenly baked.

This is a common problem with GE ovens that are often disguised as cooking mistakes.

GE oven baking unevenly is typically caused by the bake element being burnt out, only the broil element will heat the oven. As a result, the oven will heat unevenly. When the bake element is properly heated, it glows red hot.

Following the solutions mentioned below will allow you to cook food evenly again.

Possible Solution(s):

  • Look for holes or blisters to determine whether the baking element has burned out as it will be obviously damaged. Using a multimeter, check the bake element for continuity to see whether it has burned out. Replace the baking element if it lacks continuity.
  • Debris can often get stuck between the blades of convection fans and stop it from circulating hot air around the oven for an even temperature. So, you may be able to solve this problem by removing debris.
  • However, removing debris doesn’t help; test the fan motor for continuity using a multimeter. If there is no current passing, replace the motor and fix the connection to it.

GE Oven Temperature Inaccurate

If your food is coming out to be undercooked or overcooked, chances are you’re experiencing a common problem with GE ovens.

From time to time, GE ovens can start to function at inaccurate temperatures which are due to a faulty igniter or bake element. 

But you can solve this problem using the solutions below.

Possible Solution(s):

  • Faulty heating elements that include the igniter and the bake element can contribute to an inaccurate temperature. Test the heating elements and get them replaced to fix your oven.
  • If the problem persists, the thermostat may be the culprit behind the problem. However, testing and replacing a thermostat can be tricky. So, get a professional to do the job for you.

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GE Oven Interior Light Not Switching On

The interior light of a GE oven can be quite useful while cooking, as it allows you to ensure your food is properly cooked.

So, it can be quite frustrating when it doesn’t turn on. But on the bright side, it’s quite easy to fix this issue most of the time.

Possible Solution(s):

  • All you need to do is check if the bulb has burnt out or not and replace it if it has. 
  • However, sometimes, there may be a problem with the bulb socket, which can also be replaced with ease. 

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GE Oven Light Stays Off

The oven light is an incredibly useful tool to ensure your food is cooked properly.

However, at times, you will notice your oven’s light remaining off while it’s running.

GE Oven’s light staying off is typically caused by a blown light bulb.

If that’s the case, try following the solutions below to fix the issue.

Possible Solution(s):

  • It’s possible the light bulb has blown out. To test it, take out the bulb and try turning it on in another socket. If the bulb doesn’t turn on, replace it to fix your oven.
  • If the bulb appears to be working as expected in another socket, the oven’s socket may be faulty. Use a multimeter to test if the current is passing through the socket wires. 
  • Call a professional to fix the internal disconnection if there is no current passing.

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GE Oven Not Self-Cleaning

Self-cleaning can be quite helpful when it comes to removing tough stains and odors from your oven.

However, once it stops working, keeping your GE oven clean can get challenging.

So, refer to the solutions below to bring self-cleaning back into action.

Possible Solution(s):

  • Self-cleaning features are designed to only work when the oven has cooled down. Try using the self-cleaning feature once the oven has cooled if you haven’t been doing so.
  • However, if the oven doesn’t clean even while it’s cool, there may be an issue with the oven door latch. Call in a professional to fix the door latch.

GE Oven Broiler Not Working

The broiler is a great feature that allows you to cook particular foods to perfection.

However, GE ovens can have a problem regarding the broiler which is typically caused by damaged elements. 

If your oven’s broiler appears to be dysfunctional, follow the solutions below.

Possible Solution(s):

  • Check if the broil element has been damaged. You can do so by observing whether or not it glows red hot. A faulty broil element may also have holes and blisters. If the broil element appears to be faulty, replace it.
  • If the broil element is working fine, the igniter may be at fault. Test the igniter and replace it if it turns out to be broken.

GE Oven Display Not Working

GE oven’s display not working can be caused by several factors, including faulty power supplies, control panel malfunctions, wiring issues, or faulty sensors.

Whatever the cause, it is important to address the issue as soon as possible to get your GE oven back up and running.

Power Supply

If the control panel is not receiving power, the oven display will not be able to function properly, step through the following point below

  • Check to make sure that the oven is properly plugged in, and that the outlet is functioning.
  • You can test the outlet by putting in another appliance to see if that works.
  • Outlet is still not working, check the fuse has not tripped.
  • If you have a multimeter, you can use it to test the outlet for voltage.
  • Outlet simply does not work; you will need to get in an electrician to take a look at the outlet.
  • Try the oven using a different outlet, this may require using an extension cord.
  • GE oven display still not working, then move on to the next step.

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Faulty Control Panel

If the control panel itself is not functioning, it may need to be replaced.

You can try power cycling the appliance by unplugging the oven for 60 seconds and plugging it back in to see if this resolves the issue.

If not, you may need to call a professional to diagnose and fix the problem.

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Wiring Issue

If the wiring that connects the control panel to the rest of the oven is damaged or loose, it could cause the control panel to stop working.

This is a more complex issue that will likely require the help of a professional to fix.

Faulty Sensor

The oven’s temperature sensor is responsible for sending information to the control panel to adjust the oven’s temperature.

If this sensor is not functioning properly, it could cause the control panel to stop working.

This is also a more complex issue that may require the help of a professional.

It is best to call a reputable appliance repair service if you are unable to resolve the issue yourself or are unsure of what is causing the problem with your GE oven’s control panel.

They’ll be able to identify the issue and safely and quickly fix it.

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GE Door Not Closing Properly

Unfortunately, the door of an oven not closing properly is a common issue.

GE oven door not closing properly is typically caused by latch or hinge issues

You must first determine what is preventing the door from closing.

  • Latch issues: a broken latch that may need to be replaced. When trying to force the door open, some locks might be clumsy and flimsy on some oven models.
  • Hinge Issues: Over time, rust and debris can cause the hinges on an oven door to become stiff. Attempt to keep these lubricated and clean. You could try moving the frame to realign the hinges if you think your door hinges have been broken or knocked out of alignment.
  • Oven frame: Over time, regular heating and cooling of your oven might potentially lead to issues with your oven door. As a result, the framework may shift, and even a tiny movement could lead to a lock or latch failure. Repositioning the frame might be aided by tightening the screws.
  • Worn door seal will also make it difficult for the door to remain closed and sealed. This needs to be replaced to stop heat loss from the interior of the oven, as oven seal detachment is one of the causes of extended cooking times.

If you are unable to fix these yourself best to call out a technician to take a look at the door.

How Long Do GE Ovens Last?

The average GE oven will last anywhere from 10 to 15 years.

However, you can increase and improve its lifespan by maintaining it in good condition.

To do so, give your GE oven a frequent inspection and fix any issues you can.

Are GE Ovens Any Good?

Yes, GE ovens are very good. GE is well-known in the kitchen appliances market.

Most of its ranges, including the oven range, have received a good response from customers due to their convenient features, durability, and reliability.

So, it’s safe to say, GE ovens are good.

What Do The Reviews Say?

I have owned my GE Double oven since 2006, and it is still working fine. One of the ovens is self-cleaning and does a really good job.

I also own a GE 30-inch range which I used for over ten years when we sold, and the buyer was still using it when I talked to them last. I also had a GE side-by-side refrigerator which lasted 20 years.

I am sold on GE Appliances.

consumeraffairs.com

 

User friendly has a lot of options to use; I can get time to bake and have the oven go on and off without me being home. It has Sabbath mode for those that keep the Sabbath.

It has sealed burners, making it easy to clean the stovetop.

The oven self cleans with almost no smell. The door of the oven is easy to clean. Overall I am very satisfied with it.

consumeraffairs.com

 

Very easy to use and convenient, very high quality and value.

The GE range has many excellent features, including a convection oven and grill.

Stainless steel is very easy to use and convenient. Very happy with our purchase and would highly recommend purchasing.

consumeraffairs.com

 

Pros and Cons of GE Ovens

Here are some of the pros and cons of the GE Ovens

General Electric (GE) ovens are popular choices for many households, offering a range of features and functionalities. However, like any appliance, GE ovens come with both pros and cons. Here’s an overview:

Pros GE Ovens

  1. Reliability: GE is a well-established and reputable brand known for producing reliable appliances. Many users appreciate the longevity and durability of GE ovens.
  2. Innovative Technology: GE incorporates innovative technologies into its ovens, such as advanced cooking modes, smart home integration, and touchscreen controls. These features enhance the overall cooking experience.
  3. Variety of Models: GE offers a wide range of oven models to suit different preferences and kitchen setups. This includes single and double ovens, wall ovens, and both gas and electric options.
  4. Even Cooking Performance: Many users praise the even cooking performance of GE ovens. Consistent heat distribution helps ensure that your dishes are cooked evenly, reducing the risk of hot spots or undercooked areas.
  5. Self-Cleaning Options: Some GE oven models come equipped with self-cleaning features. This can save time and effort in maintaining the oven’s cleanliness.
  6. Design Options: GE ovens are available in various designs and finishes, allowing users to choose an appliance that complements their kitchen aesthetics.

Cons GE Ovens

  1. Price: GE ovens are often priced in the mid to high range, which might be a drawback for budget-conscious consumers. However, the higher cost may be justified by the brand’s reputation for quality.
  2. Complex Controls: Some users find the controls on certain GE oven models to be overly complex. While advanced features can be beneficial, a steeper learning curve may be involved in mastering all the functions.
  3. Noisy Operation: Some consumers have reported that certain GE oven models can be noisy during operation. This noise may be more noticeable in older or well-used appliances.
  4. Potential for Repairs: As with any appliance, there is always the possibility of malfunctions or breakdowns. Repairing or replacing parts in GE ovens might be more expensive than with less premium brands.
  5. Limited Warranty: The standard warranty for GE ovens may be limited compared to some competitors. Extended warranties are available, but they come at an additional cost.
  6. Long Preheat Times: Some users have noted that GE ovens can have longer preheat times compared to other brands. This may be a consideration for those who value quick preheating.

In summary, GE ovens are generally well-regarded for their reliability, performance, and innovative features.

However, the cost, potential for complexity, and occasional noise during operation are aspects to consider. It’s essential for consumers to weigh the pros and cons based on their specific needs, preferences, and budget constraints when choosing a GE oven or any other kitchen appliance.

Conclusion

GE has a wide range of reliable ovens that can make a significant difference in your kitchen.

So, if you’re looking to buy an oven, GE should be on your priority list.

However, if you face any complications with your GE oven, you might find the solution to the problems mentioned above.

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References

 

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