Why is My Oven Overheating & Cutting out?

An overheating oven is a common problem, and can result in you burning or overcooking your food (a serious issue for any food lover!). But don’t panic – most of the common causes of the problem are easy to fix.

Thermal Overload Switch

There is a real safety consideration if your oven is overheating and it should be repaired as soon as possible.  Whilst there will be a thermal overload switch fitted inside your oven which will trip and turn off the power to the heating system, it shouldn't be relied upon and is a warning sign that you have a problem.  Your oven will likely work again once it has cooled down but you are advised not to use it until the root cause of the problem has been fixed.

Faulty Oven Thermostat

The most likely cause of an overheating oven is a faulty oven thermostat, which will result in an inaccurate temperature setting.  Thermostat replacement is a straightforward DIY repair task.

See our 'oven thermostat guide' for more details on advice and fitting.

Faulty Oven Cooling Fan Motor

If the fan isn’t working at the correct speed, the oven may overheat – and this is likely to be due to a faulty oven cooling fan motor.

How to replace a faulty cooling fan motor

Blocked Oven Vents

Blocked oven vents are another possible cause of an overheating oven. To fix the issue, make sure that any vents aren’t blocked.

Faulty Control Module

In some cases, a faulty control module may be the cause of the problem. To fix the issue, you’ll need to replace the control module.