If your oven's lower heating element spewed sparks, it is likely an indication of a serious problem and should be addressed immediately to ensure safety. Here are some possible reasons for the sparks and what you should do:
Element Damage: The lower heating element in an electric oven can become damaged over time due to wear and tear or exposure to high temperatures. When the element's metal coil gets compromised or comes into contact with the oven's interior, it can cause electrical arcing and sparks.
Food or Grease Debris: If food or grease debris is stuck on the lower heating element, it can cause sparks when the oven is in use. This is particularly common if there has been a spill in the oven that wasn't cleaned properly.
Short Circuit or Wiring Issue: There may be a short circuit or faulty wiring in the oven's electrical system, leading to abnormal current flow and sparking.
Immediate Actions to Take:
Turn Off the Oven: If you notice sparks or any electrical issues with your oven, turn off the oven immediately to prevent further complications.
Disconnect from Power: Unplug the oven from the electrical outlet or turn off the circuit breaker that supplies power to the oven. This step is essential to ensure safety and avoid any risk of electric shock or fire.
Inspect the Element: After turning off the oven and ensuring it's disconnected from power, visually inspect the lower heating element for damage, such as visible breaks or deformities in the coil.
Clean the Oven: If the sparks were caused by food or grease debris on the element, allow the oven to cool down completely and then clean the interior, including the lower heating element, thoroughly.
Next Steps:
To address the issue effectively and safely, you should contact a professional appliance repair technician. Attempting to repair electrical issues yourself can be dangerous and might cause further damage. A qualified technician can diagnose the problem, replace the heating element if necessary, or identify any other underlying electrical issues.
Remember, safety should always be your priority when dealing with any electrical appliance. If you are unsure or uncomfortable with handling the situation, it's best to seek professional help.