Most ovens will blow air out of the vent at the top, and it is normal to feel hot air. Cold air, not so much. Typically, an oven will blow hot air to control the heat inside, so it is not a concern as long as the air comes out of the vent. However, if the air is not hot or if you feel that the air is coming from anywhere else but the vent, you could be facing an issue.
There are different reasons why your oven is blowing cold air or losing air other than the vent, but if you don’t address them as soon as you notice them, you could be in for costly repairs, wasted money, and last but not least, ruined meals.
Signs of an Oven Blowing Air Out
Drafty Kitchen
If you feel an uncomfortable draft in the kitchen without any windows or doors open, your oven could blow air into the room.
Uneven Cooking or Baking
When you notice that your meals are not fully cooked or baked despite the temperature setting being correct and having been in the oven for the right time, it could be a sign that your oven is either not heating enough or is losing too much hot air to allow your food to cook correctly.
Increased Energy Bills
If your oven has a leak and loses hot air during cooking or baking, it will have to start heating more often, leading to higher energy consumption. So if you notice a sudden increase in your energy bills, this is one thing to check for.
Inability to Maintain Temperature
Tying in with the above point, if you notice your oven struggling to maintain its temperature and see it turning on more often than usual, it could be another sign that your oven is blowing air out.
6 Causes of Ovens Blowing Air Out
Malfunctioning Door Gasket or Seal
A faulty door gasket or seal is one of the most common reasons for your oven to blow air out. Whether due to wear and tear or because it was damaged, if the oven door is not fully sealed against the oven, hot air can leak out and cause uneven cooking and uncomfortable drafts, not even talk about increased energy consumption.
Damaged or Worn-out Oven Door Hinges
Similar to the malfunctioning door gasket or seal, if the oven door hinges are worn out or damaged, they can also prevent a tight seal, allowing air to blow out.
Faulty Convection Fan Motor
If your notice that your oven is heating fine, but the air is not circulating, or if the air coming out of the vent is not hot, it could be that the convection fan motor is not working correctly.
Clogged Air Vents or Filters
If you have no air blowing out at all, it could be that the air vent or its filters are clogged, which can lead to your food not cooking or baking properly and getting steamed instead of cooking as the moisture can’t escape.
Oven Igniter or Heating Element Issues
If your oven is blowing cold air, a common issue is that the heating element or oven igniter is not working and doesn’t produce heat.
Defective Thermostat or Temperature Sensor
Another reason for your oven to blow cold air is a defective thermostat or temperature sensor. It may not signal the heating element or fan to start if it does not relay the correct temperature.
Troubleshooting and Repair Tips
Below are some tips for oven repair or you can directly call a professional for oven repair services.
Inspecting the Door Gasket or Seal
If you notice air blowing from anywhere around the oven door and not the vent, check the gaskets and seals to ensure they are not damaged or worn out. They must be in good condition to ensure a tight seal to keep the air inside the oven. If you see any damage or loosening, you must replace the gasket.
Replacing Worn-out Door Hinges
Over time, the hinges of the oven door can wear out and not close properly anymore. If you see that the gasket and seal are still in good condition, but the air is still blowing out, it could be that the hinge is loose and has to be replaced.
Checking the Convection Fan Motor
If you have reason to believe that the convection fan motor is not working correctly, unplug the oven and try to turn the blades by hand. If they don’t turn at all or only with difficulty, it could be a sign that the fan’s bearings are worn out and must be replaced.
Cleaning Air Vents and Filters
Cleaning your oven’s air vents and filters can remove any clogs and obstructions that prevent the air from circulating and exiting the vent.
Testing the Oven Igniter and Heating Element
If you only feel cold air blowing out of the vent, check if the oven is heating up properly. You can do so with an oven thermometer that you can use to compare the temperature you set the oven to the actual temperature.
If you have an electric oven, you can also observe the heating element to see if it turns red after turning it on. If it does not, you will have to replace the heating element.
Calibrating or Replacing the Thermostat or Temperature Sensor
If your heating element works correctly, but the oven is not heating properly and consistently, you may have to calibrate or replace the thermostat or temperature sensor. The process can vary greatly depending on the kind of oven you have; the best thing is to check your owner’s manual and follow the steps outlined or call iCare Appliance Repair.
Preventative Maintenance Tips
Regularly Cleaning the Oven
Cleaning your oven regularly can prevent issues from arising. Ensure that the vents and their filters are clean and free from obstruction. Try to remove any spilled food as soon as it’s safe to do so, as burnt food can reduce your oven’s efficiency and eventually also affect the taste of your food.
Checking and Replacing Worn-out Parts
Regularly check your oven for worn-out parts, such as the gasket or door hinges. If you replace them early, you can save a lot of stress and money.
Properly Sealing the Door
Periodically check that the oven door seals tightly against the oven. As this is one of the most common reasons for your oven to blow out air, it’s crucial to check the gasket for cracks or tears.
Also Read: 6 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Microwave
Maintaining Proper Ventilation
Proper ventilation is critical for your oven to operate correctly. This includes the vents, filters, and space under and behind the stove. Crumbs, debris and other things can accumulate and potentially obstruct the airflow of your oven.
Conclusion
Some of the most common causes for your oven to blow air out are a faulty gasket, worn-out door hinges, clogged air vents, and a malfunctioning igniter or heating element. While you can quickly fix some of these on your own, some may require professional assistance to ensure everything is taken care of properly.
Many of these issues can be prevented by regular maintenance, such as cleaning up spills after the oven has cooled off, checking and cleaning the vents and filters, or ensuring that the gasket is not damaged or worn out. While this will not guarantee that a problem might not crop up, it can significantly reduce the probability and, in turn, prolong the life of your oven.
If your oven is blowing air out and you are unsure how to find the root of the problem, iCare Appliance Repair can help. At iCare Appliance Repair, our technicians are factory-trained and licensed to service almost every major model and brand. We offer same-day and after-hours repair services that include evenings and late hours. Contact us today at (647) 370-2828 or complete our convenient online form to learn more.
