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When your oven suddenly stops working right before dinner, the first question that pops into your head is: how much is this going to cost me? I’ve been there. One moment, everything is running fine, and the next, you’re dealing with a cold oven, a delayed meal, and the stress of figuring out whether to call a repair technician or start shopping for a new appliance.
In this article, I’ll walk you through the real costs of oven repair based on national averages, break down common repair types, and help you decide whether it’s smarter to fix or replace your oven. You’ll also find helpful tips to save money, learn which repairs you can safely handle yourself, and get insights from real-life repair cases. Whether you’re dealing with a gas range, an electric wall oven, or something in between, this guide will give you the clarity and confidence you need.
What’s the Average Cost to Repair an Oven?
So, let’s get to the big question: how much does it cost to repair an oven?
On average in the U.S., oven repairs typically range from $100 to $600. That’s a pretty wide span, but it all comes down to a few key factors:
- Type of oven (gas vs. electric)
- Brand and model
- The part that needs fixing
- Labor rates in your area
- How urgent the repair is
Let me give you a real-world example. I once had a gas oven that refused to ignite. After a quick diagnosis, the technician told me it was the igniter. The entire service, including labor and part, cost me $200. Not too bad, considering a new oven would have run me at least $800.
Electric ovens are often cheaper to repair than gas models because they lack complex gas components. A simple heating element replacement in an electric oven might only run $150 to $250, while replacing a gas igniter could be $200 to $350.
Knowing these numbers can help you avoid surprises and understand whether your oven is worth fixing. Let’s dig into specific repairs.
Cost Breakdown of Common Oven Repairs
Heating Element Replacement
The heating element is the heart of your electric oven. It’s what gets hot and cooks your food. If your oven turns on but doesn’t heat up properly, the heating element could be the culprit.
Signs your heating element is faulty:
- Oven turns on but doesn’t heat up
- Visible damage or burn marks on the element
- Uneven cooking or longer-than-usual baking times
Cost to replace a heating element: Expect to pay around $100 to $300, depending on the brand and whether you hire a pro or do it yourself.
Oven Igniter Repair
Gas ovens use an igniter to light the gas that creates heat. If the igniter fails, your oven won’t heat up at all.
Common signs of a bad igniter:
- Clicking sounds with no flame
- Smell of gas without ignition
- Oven not heating despite the burner working
Typical igniter replacement cost: Between $150 and $350 depending on the model.
Temperature Sensor Replacement
The oven temperature sensor helps maintain the correct heat level. If your food keeps burning or takes forever to cook, the sensor might be faulty.
Signs of a bad sensor:
- Inconsistent baking results
- Error codes on the display
- Oven temperature not matching the setting
Replacement cost: Usually $100 to $250, including labor.
Control Board, Door Seal, and Other Repairs
Some other less common but still important repairs include:
- Control board replacement: $200 to $600
- Oven door seal/gasket: $50 to $150
- Thermostat or relay issues: $100 to $300
Example repair bill:
- Oven not holding heat properly
- Diagnosis: bad control board and worn gasket
- Total repair cost: $420 (parts: $250, labor: $170)
these costs can help you determine whether it’s worth the fix or time to move on to a new unit.
Is It Cheaper to Repair or Replace an Oven?
When your repair quote hits a few hundred bucks, you might ask yourself: Would I be better off just buying a new oven?
Here’s a general rule of thumb: If the repair costs more than 50% of the price of a new oven, replacement might be the better choice.
Let’s break it down:
| Repair vs. Replace Comparison | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Minor Repairs (igniter, sensor) | $100 – $250 |
| Major Repairs (control board, motor) | $300 – $600 |
| New Basic Oven | $500 – $900 |
| Mid-Range Oven | $1,000 – $2,000 |
| Wall Oven Replacement | $1,500 – $3,000+ |
If your oven is newer or high-end, repair is often the better investment. For older or low-end models, replacement might make more sense.
Is It Worth Repairing a 7–20 Year Old Oven?
This is a common dilemma. Appliances aren’t built like they used to be, but many ovens can still last well over a decade with good care.
Typical oven lifespan:
- Electric ovens: 13 to 15 years
- Gas ovens: 10 to 18 years
So if your oven is 7, 10, or even 15 years old, repair may still be worth it — if the cost is reasonable.
My story: I had a 15-year-old GE wall oven that stopped heating. I almost tossed it, but after a $180 igniter repair, it was working like new. That repair added another 3+ years of use.
Other considerations:
- Energy efficiency: Newer models save more energy and cost less to operate.
- Environmental impact: Repairing avoids sending old appliances to landfills.
Can You Repair an Oven Yourself?
Sometimes, yes! But it depends on the issue. Let’s divide this into two parts:
Simple Fixes You Can Try
Before calling a technician, check for easy DIY options:
- Reset the breaker: Ovens can trip circuits.
- Check the plug and outlet: Loose or dead outlets are common.
- Clean the igniter or heating element: Grease buildup can block performance.
- Replace a blown fuse or tripped thermostat: Inexpensive and simple
Tools needed: Screwdriver, multimeter, safety gloves
Safety first: Always unplug the oven and turn off the gas (if applicable).
When to Call a Pro
Leave complex fixes to professionals:
- Electrical wiring issues
- Gas line problems
- Control board failures
- Internal oven fan or motor issues
Oven Replacement Cost vs. Repair Cost
If you decide repair isn’t worth it, here’s what you might pay for a new oven:
| Type of Oven | Price Range |
|---|---|
| Basic Electric Oven | $500 – $900 |
| Mid-Range Electric | $1,000 – $1,800 |
| Gas Oven | $600 – $1,500 |
| Wall Oven | $1,500 – $3,000+ |
| Dual-Fuel or Smart Oven | $2,000 – $4,000+ |
Installation fees: Add $100 to $500, especially for gas ovens requiring licensed installation.
Real Oven Repair Stories and What They Cost
Whirlpool Gas Oven
- Problem: Oven not igniting
- Fix: Replaced igniter
- Total Cost: $240
GE Electric Oven
- Problem: Not heating evenly
- Fix: Replaced heating element
- Total Cost: $180
15-Year-Old Wall Oven
- Problem: Display failure + heating issue
- Repair Cost: $400
- New Wall Oven Cost: $2,200
- Decision: Opted to repair
These stories prove that with the right information, you can make smart repair decisions.
Tips to Cut Down on Oven Repair Costs
Want to save on repairs? Try these strategies:
- Check your warranty: Manufacturer warranties can last 1–5 years. Also check home appliance warranty plans.
- Go local: Independent repair techs often charge less than big-brand services.
- Ask for multiple quotes: Never settle on the first estimate.
- Use coupons: Many appliance repair shops offer discounts on first-time visits.
- Maintain your oven: Clean it regularly, avoid slamming the door, and check seals yearly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to fix an oven igniter?
Typically $150 to $350, depending on the model and labor in your area.
Is it worth fixing a broken oven?
If the repair is under 50% of the cost of a new oven, usually yes — especially if the oven is under 10 years old.
Can an electrician fix an oven?
Yes, especially for electric ovens with wiring or control issues. For gas ovens, call a technician experienced with gas appliances.
How long should ovens last?
Most ovens last 10 to 15 years with proper maintenance.
How expensive are ovens to replace?
Anywhere from $500 for basic models to over $3,000 for high-end wall ovens.
Is it cheaper to repair or replace a wall oven?
It depends. If the repair is under $500 and the oven is under 12 years old, repair is usually cheaper.
Should I repair my 20-year-old oven or buy a new one?
At 20 years old, a replacement might make more sense due to efficiency and future reliability.
Can I replace my own heating element in an oven?
Yes, if you’re comfortable using tools and turning off power. It’s one of the more DIY-friendly repairs.
Conclusion
So, how much does oven repair cost? While it varies depending on the issue, brand, and location, most common repairs fall between $100 and $600. Knowing the type of problem and your oven’s age helps you make a smart decision. If your oven is less than 10 years old and the repair is under $300, it’s usually worth fixing.
From personal experience, I always suggest getting a quote before jumping to replacement. And remember, small issues like a bad igniter or temperature sensor are far cheaper than buying a brand-new oven.
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