How to Fix a Thermostat on a Gas Range

It is not unusual for temperatures of gas ranges to be a bit higher or lower than the number indicated on the control knob setting. Instead of calling the repair man to adjust your range's thermostat, you can fix it yourself by using ordinary household items. Minor adjustments to your thermostat can also conserve heat while cooking and optimize your oven's temperature accuracy.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Screwdriver
• Mercury oven thermometer
• White cake mix or biscuits

1. Place the oven thermometer in the center of the oven. Adjust the dial to 350 degrees F and let the oven run for twenty minutes. To get the most accurate temperature reading, use a glass bulb, mercury-filled thermometer.

2. Read the temperature after twenty minutes. If it reads more than 375 degrees or less than 325 degrees, range must be readjusted or re-calibrated.

3. Loosen the clips or screws (behind the knob you use to set the temperature) to make adjustments to calibration disc on back of knob. Each notch typically represents 10 degrees F. Moving it counterclockwise raises temperature, while turning clockwise reduces temperature. If you have to move it more than two notches, consider replacing thermostat.

4. Insert a screwdriver inside the shaft for control knobs with hollow shafts. Each approximate eighth of a turn equals 25 degrees. Turning counterclockwise will increase temperature and turning clockwise will lower it.

5. Test the oven temperature again, using the method above.

Tips & Warnings

• Older ranges often operate with higher cooking temperatures. Avoid opening oven door when cooking since this may affect range's temperature and increase total cooking time. Food should generally be placed on center rack to ensure even cooking and accurate temperature. Use small piece of foil on rack directly beneath pan for spills or overflow of food. Do not line entire bottom of range with foil as this tricks thermostat into false heat reading due to heat reflected off foil.
• Calibrating temperature control knob on gas range does not require dismantling of unit, unplugging of gas lines or any other potentially hazardous action.