Isolate electrical power and stop immediately if gas is smelled
Ovens and hobs combine mains electricity, high temperatures and, on gas appliances, combustible fuel. Do not dismantle while energised or continue using an appliance that trips, sparks, smells burnt or leaks gas.
MOST LIKELY CAUSES
Start with these
Symptom variations Match the exact heating, ignition or control pattern. ⌄
- Trips as soon as switched on
- Trips only when heating starts
- Trips on one function
- Burning smell
- Trips after warming up
Quick checks Simple checks before removing panels. ⌄
- Note which function or zone fails.
- Check the appliance lock, timer and selected mode.
- Confirm the cooker isolator and breaker are on.
- Look for visible element, seal or burner damage.
- Isolate before touching internal parts.
Step 1 — Stop resetting the circuit repeatedly Isolate the appliance before removing covers or touching internal parts. ⌄
Process
Switch off the cooker isolator and leave the oven out of use.
Step 2 — Record which function causes the trip Isolate the appliance before removing covers or touching internal parts. ⌄
Process
Note whether it happens on fan, grill or conventional heat.
Step 3 — Check only external damage Isolate the appliance before removing covers or touching internal parts. ⌄
Process
Inspect the supply switch, cable entry and any visible moisture.
Common causes explained Why oven and hob faults develop. ⌄
Repeated tripping is commonly caused by an element leaking to earth, damaged wiring, a faulty fan motor, moisture, mains-filter failure or insulation breakdown.
The affected function is the strongest clue. A single failed mode points toward one element, ring or switch, while a total loss of operation suggests supply, control or safety-device faults.
Advanced diagnostics Engineer checks and repair work. ⌄
- Insulation-test each element.
- Test fan motor and lamp circuit.
- Inspect wiring and connectors.
- Check mains filter and control board.
- Verify earth continuity and supply condition.
Parts that may need replacing Common components linked to this fault. ⌄
- Heating element
- Fan motor
- Mains filter
- Wiring harness
- Control board
When to call an appliance engineer Conditions that should end basic troubleshooting. ⌄
- The oven or hob trips the electrics.
- There is a gas smell or unstable flame.
- Internal electrical testing is required.
- The appliance must be dismantled.
- Controls, elements or wiring show heat damage.
- The fault returns after basic checks.
Frequently asked questions Common oven and hob questions. ⌄
Can one failed element stop the whole oven?
It depends on the model. Often one cooking mode fails while others still work.
Why does an oven trip only when hot?
Element insulation can break down as it heats, causing leakage to earth.
What should I do if I smell gas?
Turn off the appliance, avoid sparks or switches, ventilate the area and contact the appropriate gas emergency service or registered engineer.