How to keep your oven working at its best this winter

Please note, we can only give you basic advice on this page to do the job yourself. Make sure you use the right tools and protective equipment to avoid hurting yourself or damaging your home. Always consult a professional for more complex repairs.

As the holiday season approaches, many of us look forward to enjoying delicious meals with our loved ones. And what's a better way to prepare those meals than with a reliable oven? However, if you haven't used your oven in a while, it's essential to ensure it's working correctly before the big day arrives.

Here are some tips for maintaining your oven to ensure it's ready for Christmas dinner:

1. Clean the Oven: a dirty oven can affect its performance and, in some cases, even lead to fire hazards. Therefore, it's crucial to clean your oven before using it for the first time in a while. You can use an oven cleaner or make a natural solution with baking soda, water, and vinegar. Make sure you clean the inside, outside, and racks of the oven. Aim to clean your oven regularly but do a deep clean every three months.

2. Check the Door Seal: the door seal prevents heat from escaping, making sure the oven heats up efficiently. If the door seal is damaged, it can cause heat to escape, leading to uneven cooking and wasting energy. Check the seal for any cracks or damage, and if you notice any issues, replace it.

3. Test the Temperature: an oven's temperature can shift over time, which can affect cooking times and the quality of your dishes. Use an oven thermometer to ensure your oven is heating up to the correct temperature. If you notice a significant difference, you may need to calibrate the oven or call a professional to assess it.

4. Replace the Light Bulb: if the light bulb in your oven is burnt out, it can be challenging to monitor your cooking progress. Replace the bulb with one that's compatible with your oven to ensure you can see what's happening inside.

5. Check the Igniter: if you have a gas oven, ensure the igniter is working correctly. A faulty igniter can prevent your oven from heating up or lead to uneven cooking. If you notice any issues, call a professional to repair it.

6. Taking out Appliance Cover with Home Emergency Assist before a problem develops can help to keep family running smoothly, by protecting up to 10 of your most important kitchen appliances, including your oven/cooker, hob and extractor fan.

By following these tips, you can maintain your oven and ensure it's working correctly before Christmas dinner. Additionally, it's always a good idea to test out your oven with a few smaller meals before the big day arrives, so you can identify any issues and make adjustments. With a well-maintained oven, you can cook up a delicious feast for your loved ones and make the holiday season extra special.

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