Whirlpool AccuBake Oven: Element Cold During Preheating... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

The Whirlpool AccuBake system utilizes a MCU (Microcontroller Unit) on the oven control board to manage oven temperature. During preheat, the MCU activates a relay that sends 240V AC to the heating element. The temperature sensor (RTD) provides feedback to the MCU, which adjusts the heating element's duty cycle. A failure in any component in this circuit can prevent the element from heating.

Symptoms:

The homeowner observes that the Whirlpool AccuBake oven display shows "Preheating", but the oven element remains cold, and the oven does not heat up.

Possible Causes:

Faulty oven temperature sensor (RTD).
Defective heating element.
Failed oven control board relay.
Open thermal fuse.
Wiring harness issue (loose connection).
Malfunctioning door switch.

Solution:

1

Disconnect power to the oven at the breaker panel. Verify 0V AC at the oven receptacle with a multimeter.
2

Remove the oven back panel using a 1/4-inch nut driver.
3

Inspect the heating element for visible breaks or damage. Test the element for continuity using a multimeter. A good element typically reads between 15-30 ohms.
4

Check the oven temperature sensor (RTD) with a multimeter. At room temperature (75°F), it should read around 1080-1090 ohms. Refer to the service manual for specific resistance values at different temperatures.
5

Locate the thermal fuse, usually near the heating element. Test for continuity. If no continuity, replace the fuse.
6

Examine the wiring harness for loose connections or damaged wires. Use a wiring diagram to trace the voltage path from the control board to the heating element.
7

If all other components test good, suspect a faulty oven control board. Replace the control board.

Safety Warning:

Always disconnect power to the appliance at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Lock Out/Tag Out (LOTO) procedures must be followed. Ovens operate on 240V AC, which can cause serious injury or death.

Prevention:

Periodically inspect the heating element for signs of wear or damage. Avoid overloading the oven with excessive weight on the racks, as this can stress the element. Clean the oven regularly to prevent food buildup, which can affect temperature sensor accuracy.

Expert Tip:

To enter service mode on many Whirlpool AccuBake ovens, press and hold the "Cancel" button for 5 seconds, then press "Start". This allows you to run diagnostic tests and view error codes that are not normally displayed.

Frequently Asked Questions

•Where is the oven temperature sensor (RTD) located?

The RTD is typically located inside the oven cavity, usually near the top, and is inserted into the oven wall. It is often held in place by a mounting bracket and screws.

•How do I test the oven control board relay?

Testing the relay requires specialized equipment and should only be performed by a qualified technician. You can check for voltage at the relay terminals when the oven is supposed to be heating, but this is not a definitive test of the relay's functionality.

•What is the correct replacement part number for the heating element?

To find the correct replacement part number, you will need to locate the model number of the oven. This is usually located on a sticker on the oven frame behind the door or on the side of the oven. Once you have the model number, you can search for replacement parts online or at a local appliance parts store. The heating element part number will be specific to your model.

Whirlpool AccuBake Oven: Element Cold During Preheating - Troubleshooting

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•Where is the oven temperature sensor (RTD) located?

•How do I test the oven control board relay?

•What is the correct replacement part number for the heating element?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: