Save money on oven repairs: learn how to replace the thermostat yourself

Replacing a gas oven thermostat is a fairly straightforward task that can be completed in under an hour. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can save yourself the cost of calling a repair technician.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need:

• New gas oven thermostat
• Screwdriver (Phillips head)
• Adjustable wrench
• Multimeter (optional)

Safety Precautions:

Before you begin, ensure your safety by following these precautions:

• Turn off the gas supply to your oven at the main gas valve.
• Disconnect the power to your oven at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
• Allow the oven to cool completely before starting any work.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Remove the Oven Door:

• Open the oven door fully.
• Locate the hinges on either side of the door and remove the screws that hold them in place.
• Carefully lift the door off the oven.

2. Access the Thermostat:

• Once the door is removed, you will see the thermostat located on the back wall of the oven cavity.
• It is usually held in place by a screw or two. Remove these screws to release the thermostat.

3. Disconnect the Wires:

• The thermostat will be connected to two or three wires.
• Using a screwdriver, carefully disconnect the wires from the thermostat terminals.
• Note the position of each wire so you can reconnect them correctly to the new thermostat.

4. Remove the Old Thermostat:

• Once the wires are disconnected, you can remove the old thermostat by pulling it straight out of its mounting bracket.

5. Install the New Thermostat:

• Insert the new thermostat into the mounting bracket.
• Tighten the screws to secure it in place.

6. Reconnect the Wires:

• Reconnect the wires to the terminals on the new thermostat, matching the colors or positions you noted earlier.
• Tighten the screws on the terminals to secure the wires.

7. Reinstall the Oven Door:

• Carefully lift the oven door back onto the hinges.
• Secure the hinges with the screws you removed earlier.

8. Restore Power and Gas:

• Turn the power back on at the circuit breaker or fuse box.
• Turn the gas supply back on at the main gas valve.

9. Test the Thermostat:

• Set the oven to the desired temperature and turn it on.
• The oven should heat up to the set temperature and maintain it.
• If the oven does not respond or does not heat to the correct temperature, check the wiring connections and the thermostat itself.

Troubleshooting:

• Oven not heating: Check the wiring connections, the thermostat, and the gas supply.
• Oven overheating: Replace the thermostat or adjust the temperature setting.
• Thermostat not responding: Replace the thermostat or check the wiring connections.

Questions You May Have

How can I tell if my gas oven thermostat needs to be replaced?

• If your oven is not heating up to the desired temperature, the thermostat may be faulty.
• If your oven is overheating, the thermostat may be malfunctioning.
• If the oven does not respond to temperature changes, the thermostat may need to be replaced.

Can I replace a gas oven thermostat myself?

Yes, replacing a gas oven thermostat is a relatively simple task that can be completed in under an hour with the right tools and instructions.

How much does it cost to replace a gas oven thermostat?

The cost of a new gas oven thermostat typically ranges from $20 to $50.

How long does it take to replace a gas oven thermostat?

Replacing a gas oven thermostat usually takes less than an hour.

What type of thermostat do I need for a gas oven?

Gas ovens require a thermostat specifically designed for gas appliances. Look for thermostats labeled as “gas oven thermostats” or “for use with gas ovens.