If your Kenmore oven won’t turn on, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the issue before calling for service.
Check the Electrical Power
The first thing to check is whether the oven is getting electrical power.
- Make sure the oven is plugged in or that the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Unplug the oven or flip the breaker off and then on again to reset it.
- Check for a tripped household fuse or blown fuse in the oven’s plug. Replace any blown fuses.
- Test the outlet with another appliance like a lamp to see if the outlet is functioning. If not, you may have an issue with the electrical circuit for the kitchen.
Inspect the Oven’s Controls
If the oven is getting power but still won’t turn on, the next thing to check is the oven’s internal controls.
- Make sure the oven control is set properly – turn it to the “Bake” or “Broil” setting and set the temperature.
- Try adjusting the temperature or resetting the control to see if that activates the oven.
- Unplug the oven or turn off power at the breaker/fuse box. Then plug it back in or turn the power back on after 30 seconds to reset the oven’s computer.
- Ensure the oven door is completely closed. Many ovens have a door sensor switch that will prevent the oven from turning on if the door is open.
Check the Oven’s Internal Fuses
Your oven may also have one or more internal fuses that have blown and need to be replaced. These are different than the main fuses/breakers for the kitchen circuits.
- Refer to your owner’s manual for instructions on checking and replacing the oven’s internal fuses.
- On some models, you may need to remove the back access panel or pull the range away from the wall to check the internal fuses.
If none of these steps get the oven turning on, then it’s likely an internal electrical or control board issue that will require a technician visit. Contact Kenmore customer service or an authorized service company for assistance. Provide the model number when requesting service.
Resetting the Oven’s Computer on a Kenmore 790 Model
If your Kenmore oven with model number 790 is malfunctioning or unresponsive, resetting the computer may help resolve the issue before calling for costly repairs. Here are the steps for resetting the oven’s computer:
Unplug Oven Before Resetting
Before resetting the computer, unplug the oven from the electrical outlet or turn off the circuit breaker to the oven. Allow it to sit for at least one minute without power.
Locate Reset Button
On most Kenmore 790 ovens, there will be a small round reset button located on the back of the control panel or inside the oven on the upper right-hand side. Refer to your owner’s manual for the exact location.
Press Reset Button
Press and hold the reset button for 5-10 seconds. Then release the reset button and plug the oven’s power cord back into the outlet.
Reset Oven Controls
Once the oven has power again, the display should be cleared. Reset the oven’s clocks, timers, and cooking functions according to the owner’s manual.
If the oven doesn’t respond after pressing the reset button and restoring power, wait 5 minutes and repeat the process. This gives time for the computer to fully reset.
Alternative Reset Method
On some Kenmore 790 models, you can reset the computer by pressing and holding both the “Bake” and “Broil” buttons simultaneously for 10 seconds instead of using the reset button.
Call for Service if Needed
If your oven still won’t respond or continues to malfunction after resetting the computer, contact Kenmore support or a professional appliance repair service. Provide the 790 model number when requesting assistance.
Resetting the oven’s computer often resolves electronic control issues in Kenmore ovens without requiring a costly service call. However, if problems persist, don’t hesitate to have a qualified appliance technician diagnose and repair the oven.
How to Access the Interior Oven Light in a Kenmore 790
The interior oven light in Kenmore model 790 ovens provides visibility when cooking or cleaning. If the light needs replacing, follow these steps to access the bulb:
Materials Needed
- Philips head screwdriver
- Replacement 40 watt appliance bulb
Allow Oven to Cool
Only attempt to replace the oven light bulb after the oven has thoroughly cooled. The glass cover and bulb may still be hot right after using the oven.
Locate Interior Light Cover
The interior oven light is located at the rear of the oven cavity. There will be a glass cover over the bulb that you need to remove.
Remove Screws Holding Light Cover
Use the Philips head screwdriver to remove the two screws that hold the glass light cover in place. The screws are located on the left and right edges.
Pull Off Light Cover
After removing the screws, gently pull the glass light cover straight out to access the bulb underneath.
Remove Old Bulb
Turn the bulb counterclockwise to unscrew it from the socket. Pull the old bulb straight out to remove it.
Insert New Bulb
Align the new 40 watt appliance bulb and insert it into the socket. Turn it clockwise to screw it securely in place.
Replace Light Cover
Carefully insert the glass light cover back into the opening and replace the two screws on the sides to hold it in position.
Check that the new bulb illuminates when you turn on the oven. Call an electrician if the bulb immediately burns out again.
With the proper steps, replacing the interior oven light on a Kenmore 790 model is an easy do-it-yourself fix. Take care not to touch the new halogen bulb with bare fingers to avoid damage and shortening the bulb’s lifespan.
Troubleshooting Kenmore 790 Oven Temperature Issues
If your Kenmore model 790 oven is not maintaining the proper temperature or seems to be overheating or overcooking food, the following tips may help resolve the issue:
Check the Temperature Setting
Make sure the oven temperature is set accurately. Confirm the oven is preheating to the temperature you input.
Test Oven with Thermometer
Use an oven-safe thermometer placed inside the oven to check the actual internal temperature during preheating and cooking. The oven temperature should match the setting.
Inspect Door Seals and Latches
Faulty oven door seals or broken latches can cause heat to escape and temperature problems inside the oven. Inspect the door gaskets for any gaps or damage. Make sure the door fully closes and seals.
Clean Oven Temperature Sensor
There is a sensor bulb that monitors the internal oven temp. Check the owner’s manual for its location. Clean it thoroughly with rubbing alcohol and a cloth if covered in food debris.
Replace Temperature Sensor if Faulty
If cleaning the sensor doesn’t resolve the temperature problem, the sensor may need replacing. Contact Kenmore support to diagnose the issue and order a replacement sensor specific to your model.
Adjust Offset if Available
Some Kenmore ovens have an “offset” temperature adjustment to calibrate the oven settings closer to the true internal temp. Consult your owner’s manual on the offset feature.
Call for Repair Service
If all else fails, contact a technician for full troubleshooting and repair service. The oven’s control board or other internal parts may need replacing. Provide the model 790 number.
Monitoring the oven’s performance and taking quick action as soon as you notice temperature irregularities can help avoid disastrous baking and expensive appliance repairs down the road.
Common Causes of Temperature Issues in Kenmore Ovens
- Faulty thermostat or temperature sensor
- Malfunctioning control board
- Damaged door seals and latches
- Clogged oven temperature sensor tube
- Defective oven heating element
- Incorrect temperature calibration
Replacing the Light Bulb in Kenmore Oven Model 790
If the interior oven light has burned out in your Kenmore model 790 range, follow these simple steps to replace the bulb:
Materials and Tools Needed
- Replacement 40-watt appliance light bulb
- Philips head screwdriver
- Protective gloves
Turn Off Power to Oven
Start by turning off power to the oven at the circuit breaker panel or by unplugging it. This will prevent electric shock while changing the bulb.
Remove Glass Light Cover
Use a Philips head screwdriver to unscrew the two retaining screws holding the glass light cover in place at the back of the oven. Then remove the cover.
Unscrew Old Bulb
Wearing protective gloves, grasp the old bulb and turn it counterclockwise to unscrew it from the socket. Pull the bulb straight out to remove it.
Insert New Bulb
Take your new 40-watt appliance bulb and insert it into the socket. Turn it clockwise to screw it securely in place.
Replace Light Cover
Carefully insert the glass light cover back into the opening and replace the two screws on the sides to hold it in position.
Restore Power
Plug the oven back in or flip the circuit breaker back on. Make sure the new bulb illuminates when you turn on the oven light switch.
And that’s it! With just a few tools and a replacement bulb, you can easily fix a burned out oven light on a Kenmore 790 range. Contact Kenmore support if the new bulb burns out immediately, indicating an electrical issue.
Solving Common Kenmore 790 Oven Problems
Kenmore ovens model 790 can provide years of reliable performance. However, issues can arise over time that require troubleshooting and repairs. Here are solutions for some common problems with 790 ovens:
Oven Won’t Heat Up
If the oven won’t heat up, first check that the temperature is set correctly. Try adjusting it higher to trigger the heating elements. Inspect the bake and broil elements visually. If damaged or broken, they will need replacing. Also check for any loose or burnt wiring connections.
Element Getting Too Hot
If the bake or broil elements seem to overheat, it could indicate a faulty temperature sensor or oven control board issue. First try replacing the sensor. If that doesn’t work, the control board may need replacing by a technician.
Error Codes on Display
Refer to the owner’s manual for deciphering error codes that display. They indicate specific sensor, heating element or electronic control problems. Error codes help the repair technician diagnose issues.
Oven Fan Not Working
The convection fan not turning on can be caused by obstructions, failed fan motors, or control board issues. Unplug and inspect the fan area for any debris. Test the voltage going to the fan while it should be operating.
Oven Light Not Working
Check for a burned-out bulb and replace it if necessary. If a new bulb doesn’t work, it may be a wiring, switch or power supply problem to the light circuit. Electrical testing by a technician can isolate the exact issue.
Door Not Sealing Properly
Improper door sealing can lead to temperature regulation problems. Inspect the door gaskets for damage or gaps. The hinges and door springs may need adjusting or replacing by a professional to ensure a tight seal.
Contacting Kenmore support for assistance can help accurately diagnose any persistent oven problems. Technicians can determine if replacement parts or professional repairs are needed.
Conclusion
Kenmore ovens model 790 are designed to provide reliable baking and broiling performance. However, issues can arise over time that require troubleshooting and repair.
The most common problems include the oven not heating properly, temperature regulation problems, faulty oven lights, error codes appearing, and noises.
Basic troubleshooting steps like checking power connections, cleaning sensors, replacing light bulbs, and inspecting door seals can resolve many minor oven issues.
For persistent or complex problems, rely on the diagnostics of Kenmore customer service or authorized appliance repair technicians. Refer to the model 790 number when requesting support.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions given below:
What do I do if my Kenmore 790 oven won’t turn on?
- First, confirm that the oven is receiving power. Check circuit breakers and fuses. Test outlets with another appliance.
- Verify oven controls are set properly and the door is closed securely.
- Press the reset button on the back of the control panel if equipped.
- If the oven still won’t turn on, call for service to check internal electrical and computer connections.
Why is my oven temperature too hot or not heating to the set temperature?
- Double check temperature settings. Do a test with an oven thermometer.
- Clean the oven sensor probe. Replace it if faulty.
- Inspect door seals for any damage, gaps or improper closing.
- Have a technician check oven thermostat, heating elements, and control board.
What should I do if the oven light is not working?
- Try replacing the light bulb with an appliance bulb of the same wattage.
- Check for faulty light switches or loose wiring connections.
- Electrical troubleshooting may be needed to trace and fix loss of power to bulb circuit.
Why does my oven make loud noises when in use?
- Metal expanding and contracting during heating and cooling can cause sounds. This is normal.
- However, banging or loud popping sounds could indicate a loose part or fan issue. Inspect oven interior parts. Have technician check fan motors.
How do I get rid of error codes on my 790 oven display?
- Diagnose codes by checking manual. Codes indicate issues like faulty sensors or heating elements.
- Error codes won’t go away until underlying problem is resolved, often requiring part replacements.
- A technician can determine which parts need changing based on error codes.