Explore the Parts That Make Your Electric Oven Work

If you’re tackling repairs or just curious about how everything fits together, knowing what’s in your electric range or wall oven will help you handle any project like a Pro! 

If you need any replacement parts for your appliance, you can enter your model number at AppliancePartsPros.com to order them. Most orders arrive in just two business days, and we have thousands of free guides to show you how to install your new parts.

The information in this article may not apply to your specific appliance model. We recommend consulting your manufacturer’s documentation or contact us with any questions.

Heating elements

• Bake element: Located at the bottom of the oven cavity, it provides heat for baking and roasting.
• Broil element: Positioned at the top of the oven cavity, it is used for broiling and provides direct, intense heat.
• Convection element: A heating element located near the convection fan, usually at the back of the oven, designed to provide additional heat specifically for convection cooking. It works with the convection fan to circulate hot air evenly throughout the oven cavity for more consistent cooking and baking.

Temperature sensors and controls

• Oven temperature sensor: Monitors the oven temperature and communicates with the control board to regulate heating.
• Thermostat: Maintains the desired temperature by switching the heating elements on and off.
• Control knob/touchpad: Allows the user to set the temperature, cooking mode, and time. Modern ovens may have a digital touchpad with various programmable settings.

• Electronic control board (ERC): The main circuit board that manages the oven’s functions, receives input from sensors, and controls the heating elements.
• Relay board: Used in some models to switch the heating elements on and off based on the signals from the control board.

Safety parts

• Thermal fuse: A safety device that cuts power to the oven if it overheats.
• High-limit thermostat: Prevents overheating by shutting off the oven if the temperature exceeds a certain threshold.

Internal parts

• Oven racks: Adjustable metal racks that support pans and dishes inside the oven cavity.
• Oven light: Illuminates the interior of the oven to help monitor cooking progress.
• Oven door: Provides access to the oven cavity and is equipped with heat-resistant glass to allow viewing inside while maintaining temperature.
• Door hinge: The mechanical hinges that allow the oven door to open and close. They often include a spring mechanism to provide a tight seal when closed.
• Door seal/gasket: Provides a tight seal around the oven door to prevent heat loss.
• Meat probe: A temperature probe that plugs into a port inside the oven and is inserted into meat to monitor internal temperatures, allowing for more precise cooking.

Electrical system

• Power cord: Connects the oven to the electrical outlet or hardwired power supply.
• Wiring harness: Contains all the electrical wires connecting the various parts and controls.
• Terminal block: Connects the power cord to the oven’s internal wiring, allowing electricity to flow to the oven parts.

Mechanical parts

• Cooling fan: Helps to cool the control board and other electronic parts, especially in self-cleaning models or high-temperature cooking modes.
• Convection fan and motor: Circulates hot air throughout the oven cavity to promote even cooking. Found in convection ovens.
• Motorized door lock: Engages during the self-cleaning cycle to lock the oven door for safety.

 Additional features (in some models)

• Warming drawer: A lower compartment that is used to keep food warm until it is ready to be served.
• Steam feature: Adds moisture to the oven cavity for certain cooking techniques.

Additional information

Thanks for reading! If you have any other appliance repair needs or projects, you can find more resources including our DIY blog at AppliancePartsPros.com. There, you can enter your model number to order the exact parts you need. Most orders arrive in two business days.

You can also reach our award-winning customer service team at 1-877-477-7278, chat with a pro on our website and watch thousands of free video tutorials on our YouTube channel.

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