Commercial Range Repair and Troubleshooting

Commercial ranges are workhorses in most commercial kitchens, but with heavy use, they eventually require service beyond basic preventative maintenance. Professional repair services can help diagnose and fix stoves, but understanding basic troubleshooting steps may help you perform simple fixes that reduce downtime and save on repair costs.

Basic Tools Needed for Servicing Gas and Electric Ranges:

Common Problems with Ovens and Ranges

Gas Range Problems:

• Range top or oven not turning on
• Oven light went out
• Igniters won't function
• Flames are large, yellow, or distorted
• Oven temperature is inaccurate
• Oven door is crooked, broken, or won't open

Electric Range Problems

• Range top won't turn on
• Oven not heating up
• Inaccurate oven or range top temperatures
• Convection fan isn't working
• Cooking issues
• Oven door won't open or opens with difficulty

Troubleshooting Commercial Range Problems:

We strongly recommend trusting a licensed and bonded commercial equipment repair technician to reliably diagnose issues and complete the appropriate repairs.

Diagnose and Repair Your Gas Range

Range top or oven not turning on

• Gas or electrical connection: Make sure the range is hooked up to gas and electric (if applicable) and that the power source is on
• Malfunctioning thermocouple: Inspect the oven or range top thermocouple and make sure the pilot light is contacting it; adjust the position or replace it
• Pilot light won't stay lit: Ensure your gas safety valve is operational, the thermocouple is aligned, and the pilot light orifice is clean
• Faulty electronics: Use a multimeter to test key connections

Oven light went out

• Light burn out: Inspect for discoloration; replace burnt out bulbs
• Electrical issue: Make sure the light is properly installed, check for bad fuses, and ensure wiring is properly connected

Electric igniters won't function

• Electrical connection: Ensure proper connection and make sure the circuit isn't tripped and fuses are intact
• Broken or damaged igniters: Check for cracked igniters, especially after cleaning
• Intermittent sparking: Check for moisture, loose wiring, and igniter damage



Pilot adjustment valve

• Flame is large, yellow, or distorted
  • Clogged burner ports: Remove grates and burners and clean ports with a brush or wire
  • Air shutter misadjusted: Adjust shutter to enable more or less oxygen to mix with gas for proper flame size and color
  • Incorrect gas: Consult your manual to be sure you're using the correct fuel type
• Oven temperature isn't accurate
  • Thermostat issues: Test temperature with a calibrated thermometer and adjust or replace the thermostat as needed
• Commercial oven door won't open
  • Rusted hinges: Inspect and oil door hinges
  • Broken hinges: Remove door to fully inspect hinges; ensure proper alignment

Diagnose and Repair Your Electric Range

• Range top won't turn on
  • Power supply: Ensure your appliance is plugged in and the breaker isn't tripped
  • Switch malfunction: Use a multimeter to find incomplete connections
  • Heating element failure: Test each element to determine if it's only a single hob that's broken
• Oven not heating up
  • Power supply: Ensure your appliance is plugged in and the breaker isn't tripped
  • Wiring malfunction: Use a multimeter to determine if connections are complete
  • Thermostat issue: Test thermostat and oven sensor for continuity
  • Heating element failure: Inspect each element for any visible damage
Inaccurate oven or range top temperatures

• Oven sensor error: Test and calibrate the oven sensor or replace if needed
• Element failure: Check the top and bottom elements

Convection heating isn't working

• Fan malfunction: Check for obstructions and test motor with a multimeter before replacing it
• Convection element failure: Inspect and test the element near the fan

Cooking efficiency issues

• Improper cookware: Curved or warped cookware reduces efficiency. Use flat cookware on electric burners
• Blocked airflow: Overloading ovens or covering racks with foil creates uneven heat in oven cavity

Oven door won't open or opens with difficulty

• Rusted hinges: Inspect and oil door hinges
• Broken hinges: Remove door, inspect hinges, and ensure proper alignment



Range Oven Hinge

Calling for Service

Many of the cases above will require professional service to fix. KaTom suggests using a licensed repair company with knowledge of your specific range brand. When requesting service, provide detailed information about the issue, include ID numbers found on the name plate, and explain any preliminary troubleshooting findings.

If you choose to self-repair a range, proceed cautiously when adjusting wiring, gas line, or thermostats. Only use approved parts and test any new gas connections for leaks by covering joints with soapy water and watching for bubbles. Avoid large range fixes when they're in warranty as improper repairs may void the warranty

Commercial Range Preventative Maintenance

The best way to extend your range's life is by regularly cleaning and maintaining it. Deep clean the range top, wipe down the oven, polish the exterior, and regularly check connections.

When Is It Time to Buy a New Range?

When your commercial range needs repair, ask yourself three questions:

1. How old is this range?
2. How much has already been invested on repairs?
3. What's the cost of a replacement unit?

If you're spending more than a third of the value of a new range, it may be time to get a new one. Frequent repairs on a 15- to 20-year-old range may just be putting bandages on an appliance that needs replaced. Ranges are critical for operations, and downtime is often more expensive than the cost of a new range. Find leading brands and expert help when purchasing a new range at KaTom.