The bread machine is a very practical device for making several types of bread at home: standard bread, brioche bread or even wholemeal bread. She is able to respect the waiting time for the yeast to take effect and the other ingredients to mix perfectly.
It is important to clean the machine after use to remove bread and flour residue. When, despite everything, it no longer heats up, you must check:
- the power outlet
- the electrical panel
- the power cord
- the power wires
- resistance
- the electronic card
- engine
Bread machines have simplified the process of baking fresh, homemade bread. However, like all appliances, they can encounter problems. One common issue that many people face is the bread machine not heating up as it should. In this article, we’ll explore some of the reasons why this might happen and what you can do to fix it.
Faulty Heating Element
The heating element is a crucial component of your bread machine, responsible for providing the heat required for baking. If your bread machine is not heating up, it could be due to a faulty or broken heating element.
Solution: Test the heating element with a multimeter for continuity – a continuous electrical path present in the part. If the multimeter shows no continuity, that’s a clear sign the heating element is faulty and needs to be replaced.
Damaged Wires
Damaged or burnt wires can also prevent your bread machine from heating up. Wires can get damaged due to overheating, improper handling, or simply due to wear and tear over time.
Solution: Inspect the wires connected to the heating element and the control board. If you notice any signs of damage or burning, you will need to replace them.
Control Board Issues
The control board regulates the heat produced by the heating element. If the control board has a fault, it may not send enough power to the heating element, preventing the machine from heating up.
Solution: Diagnosing a faulty control board can be difficult for the average person. It’s recommended to seek the help of a professional appliance repair technician if you suspect this is the issue.
Thermostat Problems
Most bread machines have a built-in thermostat that controls the temperature during different baking stages. If the thermostat is malfunctioning, it may incorrectly read the temperature, causing the machine to not heat up.
Solution: Similar to the control board, diagnosing a faulty thermostat isn’t straightforward. If you suspect a faulty thermostat, it’s best to contact a professional.
Preventative Measures
While solving these issues might require professional help, there are preventative measures you can take to minimize potential problems:
- Proper handling: Handle your machine with care to avoid damaging internal components like wires.
- Regular cleaning: Keep your bread machine clean. Accumulated dirt and food particles can lead to overheating, affecting the efficiency of the machine.
- Scheduled maintenance: Even if you do not face any problems, get your bread machine inspected by a professional every once in a while to ensure it remains in good working condition.
Remember, if you’re not confident in your ability to troubleshoot electrical issues, it’s always best to consult a professional technician. They can accurately diagnose and safely repair the problem, getting your bread machine back to baking the perfect loaf.
CHECK BREAD MAKER ENGINE
On most models, you will gain access to the engine by removing the bowl and then removing the main compartment from the unit.
- Remove the plastic construction: you will see all the components.
- Look for engine contamination or other faults.
- Set the multimeter to the lowest value of the ohm function and place the keys on the motor connectors.
- Turn the motor sprocket and see if the value on the multimeter changes. If the value does not change, the motor is defective and must be replaced.
- Also watch out for engine gears, which may be damaged or seized, preventing the engine from starting.
In conclusion, a bread machine not heating up can be frustrating, but understanding potential causes allows you to approach the issue logically and efficiently. Whether the culprit is a faulty heating element, damaged wires, a malfunctioning control board, or thermostat issues, there’s a solution to get your machine back to its best performance.
