Old Stove Issues: Quick Fixes & When to Call a Pro

If your kitchen’s old stove is acting up, you probably feel a mix of frustration and worry. The good news is many hiccups are easy to spot and fix yourself. Below we break down the most common glitches, simple safety checks, and the point where you should stop and dial a pro.

Common Problems with an Old Stove

First up, the burners. If a burner won’t light, the spark igniter might be dirty or worn out. A quick wipe with a soft brush can clear debris, but if the spark still won’t jump, the igniter usually needs swapping.

Next, the heating element on electric stoves. A flickering or uneven flame often means the element is cracked or corroded. Turn off power, remove the element, and give it a visual once‑over – any visible break means replace it.

Thermostat trouble is another frequent complaint. When the oven heats up too fast or never reaches the set temperature, the thermostat sensor may be off. Test it with a multimeter (if you’re comfortable) or call a tech; it’s a cheap part but critical for safety.

Control board failures are rarer but can happen in really old models. Random error codes, unresponsive knobs, or the oven refusing to start often point to a busted board. That’s a job for someone with proper tools, as the board sits behind the panel and can be pricey to replace.

Tips to Keep Your Old Stove Running

Regular cleaning goes a long way. Grease buildup can block gas flow, interfere with igniters, and even cause fires. After each use, wipe the stovetop, and once a month, pull out burners and clean the ports with a toothpick.

Check the gas lines and connections for leaks. A simple soap‑water test will bubble if there’s a leak – if you see bubbles, shut the gas off and call a professional right away.

Don’t ignore strange smells or noises. A sour gas smell, sizzling that’s not from the burner, or clicking that never stops are red flags. Turn off the stove, ventilate the area, and get help.

Finally, weigh the cost of repair against replacement. If you’re spending more than half the price of a new, energy‑efficient stove on parts and labor, it might be time to upgrade. New models use less power and are safer, which can save money in the long run.

Bottom line: an old stove can still serve you well with a bit of TLC. Spot the easy fixes, keep it clean, and know when the problem is beyond a weekend DIY. When in doubt, call a trusted repair service – they’ll diagnose fast, fix safely, and get your kitchen back to normal without the guesswork.