The bread maker is a small device for making bread dough and baking it.
It is made up of different parts:
- engine
- the electronic card
- the belt
- the blades
- thermal resistance
- the power cord.
This page explains the role of the different parts of a bread machine, as well as how to test them using a multimeter. This will allow you to know if one of the parts of your bread machine is defective and responsible for the breakdown of your bread machine?
Bread machines are highly functional appliances that make baking bread at home an easy and enjoyable task. Like any appliance, a bread machine can develop faults over time, and learning how to test its parts can help you troubleshoot potential issues. Here’s how to go about testing various components of your bread machine:
Disclaimer: Electrical appliances can pose a risk of electrical shock. Always disconnect the appliance from the power source before beginning any tests.
1. Power Cord and Plug
Check the power cord and plug first. Make sure the cord isn’t frayed or damaged.
Test: Plug in a different appliance to the same outlet to rule out issues with the power supply. If the other appliance works fine, the issue might be with your bread machine’s power cord or internal wiring.
2. Control Panel
The control panel is the command center of your bread machine. If it’s not functioning correctly, it can cause numerous problems.
Test: Inspect the control panel for any visible damage. Try setting different baking modes or functions. If they do not respond as they should, it’s likely an issue with the control panel.
3. Heating Element
The heating element is crucial for the baking process. If it’s faulty, your bread machine won’t heat up properly, resulting in undercooked or uncooked bread.
Test: Use a multimeter to test the heating element for continuity, a continuous electrical path present in the part. No continuity means the heating element is faulty and needs replacement.
4. Timing Belt and Motor
The timing belt and motor control the kneading process in your bread machine. If the bread dough isn’t being kneaded properly, the problem could be with these components.
Test: Inspect the timing belt for signs of wear or damage. Listen to the motor while it’s running. Grinding or squealing sounds could indicate a motor issue. A professional should handle motor-related problems due to their complexity.
5. Internal Wiring and Circuitry
Faulty wiring or circuitry can cause your bread machine to malfunction or stop working entirely.
Test: Visually inspect for any loose or disconnected wires. If everything appears to be in place, but your bread machine still isn’t working, it could be an issue with the machine’s circuit board, which would require a professional examination.
6. Bread Pan and Kneading Paddle
While these parts don’t directly affect the functioning of the bread machine, they’re critical for baking the bread.
Test: Check the bread pan and kneading paddle for any significant damage or wear. If the kneading paddle doesn’t rotate freely or the bread pan leaks, you’ll need to replace these components.
7. Sensors
Modern bread machines come equipped with sensors that monitor temperature and other parameters. A faulty sensor can give inaccurate readings and mess up the baking process.
Test: If your bread machine isn’t maintaining the correct temperature or the timer doesn’t work correctly, a sensor might be to blame. Professional testing equipment is required to check these sensors, so you may need to consult an appliance repair expert.
CHECK BELT AND BLADES
This is a narrow strip of flexible and durable material used for binding, fastening. In the case of a bread maker, the belt would be used to mechanically rotate the bread maker using the power provided by the motor.
Thanks to the system of nuts, the belt is connected to a pulley that will rotate and then the blades of the bread machine. It must not be damaged or broken.
The blades are small propellers that will be used to knead the bread while it is being cooked.
Remember, while these tests can help identify some common issues, a professional should handle complex repairs, especially when dealing with electrical appliances. The most important thing is to ensure you maintain your bread machine properly to prolong its lifespan and reduce the likelihood of faults.
