You are correct; there are several possible reasons why your oven is not heating up. Here are some common causes:
Faulty heating element: The heating element is a crucial part of the oven responsible for generating heat. If it becomes faulty or breaks, the oven will not be able to reach the desired temperature. In electric ovens, there are usually two heating elements - one at the top (broil element) and one at the bottom (bake element). If either of these elements is defective, it can lead to heating issues.
Malfunctioning thermostat: The thermostat is responsible for monitoring and regulating the oven's temperature. If it is not functioning correctly, it may not send the proper signals to the heating elements, resulting in the oven not reaching the desired temperature or maintaining a consistent heat.
Problem with the oven control board: The oven control board is like the brain of the oven, and if it is faulty, it can disrupt the oven's heating function. Issues with the control board can lead to temperature inconsistencies or no heat at all.
Gas supply issues (for gas ovens): If you have a gas oven, check to ensure that the gas supply to the oven is working correctly. A disruption in the gas supply can prevent the oven from heating up.
Tripped thermal fuse: Some ovens have a thermal fuse that acts as a safety feature to protect the oven from overheating. If this fuse is blown, the oven may not heat up.
Broken igniter (for gas ovens): In gas ovens, the igniter is responsible for lighting the gas to produce the heat. If the igniter is broken, the gas may not ignite, leading to a lack of heat.
Wiring issues: Loose or damaged wiring can also interfere with the oven's heating function.
If you are not familiar with oven repair and troubleshooting, it is best to have a professional technician inspect and diagnose the issue. They can identify the specific problem and recommend the necessary repairs or replacements to get your oven working properly again. Remember always to prioritize safety and unplug the oven or turn off the power before attempting any inspection or repairs.