The self-cleaning function on an oven works by using extremely high temperatures to burn off residues from baking, without the use of any chemicals. A self-cleaning oven is also referred to as a pyrolytic oven and has walls that are coated with heat and acid-resistant enamel.
Residues are reduced to ash when exposed to this heat and your oven will stay locked until the process is completed, which typically takes around three hours. What are the pros and cons of self-cleaning ovens? Read on to find out more…
Advantages of a self-cleaning oven
A self-cleaning electric oven will use significantly less energy over a period of time as the extra insulation keeps heat in during regular cooking. Additional energy savings can also be made by operating the self-cleaning function immediately after cooking so the heat build-up can be retained.
As you don’t have to manually remove food residues from inside the oven this method of cleaning is very appealing. All you need to do is select the self-cleaning programme and when the oven has cooled down wipe out the ash debris.
It’s not necessary to use any chemical cleaners with the self-cleaning option. All that’s needed is a very high temperature and a manual wipe down following the self-cleaning process.
Disadvantages of a self-cleaning oven
A self-cleaning built-in oven will have all of the above advantages, and also the same disadvantages which include the need to supervise the process as the temperatures reach their maximum. You need to bear in mind that grease can ignite a fire and fuses can burn out due to the extreme heat so you need to stay alert.
Self-cleaning ovens may produce and emit dangerous fumes caused by the burning of food particles and the enamel lining. These fumes can circulate into the air and particularly affect those with respiratory issues. Inhaling fumes can lead to coughing and breathing issues.
Young children and pets can be burned if they touch the front of the oven during the self-cleaning process as it becomes extremely hot. In rare circumstances, the glass in the oven door, although strengthened, may shatter due to this excessive heat.
Self-cleaning oven maintenance
One of the best ways to clean your oven is to run the self-cleaning option at least once every four months, although it may be necessary to do this more often depending on oven use. Between cleans, you should get rid of any food spills as soon as possible with a plastic scraper, or by using a solution of baking soda mixed with water to make a paste.
For very stubborn stains you can sprinkle baking soda directly onto the stain and then spray a mist of white vinegar on top. After letting it sit for a few hours you can scrub away the remains with a clean cloth.
Remove oven racks and scrub with washing up liquid to loosen burned-on grime, then rinse thoroughly before reassembling. Wipe down the interior of the oven regularly as part of your kitchen cleaning routine.
Electric oven troubleshooting
If your self-cleaning oven programme can’t be selected your oven may need to be reset. You can do this by turning off the power at the wall socket for about two minutes and then turning it back on. You should then be able to unlock the door.
If this has no effect the wiring will need to be checked for damage. The thermal fuse if faulty may continue sensing too high temperatures and trip the circuit breaker, and will need replacing. An overheating oven may also damage the control board and this will be indicated by the display panel not working as it should.
For any of these issues, you’ll be able to arrange oven repairs in London from experienced technicians providing a fully insured service delivered with a six-month quality guarantee.
