On GE electric ovens, a common sign of a failed bake element is the oven still turning on but never climbing past roughly 100°F. On gas models, the igniter is the more likely cause, the same part responsible for most no-heat calls across brands.
If you haven’t already, run through our Oven Not Heating guide first, it walks through every likely cause in the order worth checking them. From here, we’re narrowing in on where those parts sit specifically on GE ovens. This page also lives inside our wider oven troubleshooting hub.
Testing the Igniter (Gas Models)
With the power and gas off, remove the igniter and test it with a multimeter for continuity; no continuity confirms it needs replacing. Visually, an igniter that glows for more than 90 seconds without lighting the burner is already weak enough to replace, even if it still shows continuity.
Testing the Bake Element (Electric Models)
A healthy bake element glows a uniform red-orange across its full length. No glow at all usually means either a failed element or a power delivery problem upstream of it; a glow that’s bright in one section and dark in another points to an internal break at that specific spot. Confirm either way with a continuity test once the oven is unplugged.
The Symptom GE Owners Report Most
GE’s electric models are specifically known for the “won’t climb past 100°F” symptom rather than a complete lack of heat, which throws people off since the oven still turns on and the display still shows a target temperature. That partial-heat pattern still points to the bake element first.
Frequently Asked Questions
My GE electric oven turns on but never gets hot, what's happening?
That's a classic sign of a failed bake element on GE ovens specifically: the oven runs and shows a target temperature, but heat output tops out around 100°F because the element itself isn't fully functioning.
How long should a GE gas oven's igniter glow before lighting?
Under 90 seconds. If it glows longer than that without igniting the burner, it's too weak to open the gas valve and needs replacing regardless of what a continuity test shows.
Can I test the bake element without removing it?
On most GE models, yes: the terminals are accessible from inside the oven cavity once it's unplugged, so you can test for continuity without pulling the element out fully.
Consider this a diagnostic starting point rather than a stand-in for a qualified repair visit.
