How Does an Oven's Temperature Control Work?
- Temperature controls on an oven allow the oven to distribute heat and eliminate hot and cold spots. To reach a desired temperature, a rear fan circulates heat within the oven cavity and broiler. The function of the controller is to regulate and determine the heat setting and ensure food is properly cooked.
- The temperature control is used to activate the oven as well as the broiler. It can be set to specific temperatures ranging from 100° Fahrenheit to 600° Fahrenheit , for example. The temperature setting will vary by brand, type and size. To adjust the temperature, turn the knob to the appropriate setting and wait for the oven cavity to reach the desired temperature. This can take several seconds to several minutes, depending on the type of oven being used.
- A conventional oven is made up of a 240/120-volt circuit, with 240 volts making up the heating elements of the oven (the 120 volts usually go to other accessory elements). The temperature control functions as part of an electric timer motor that houses a sensing mechanism to maintain a certain heat level and sound an alarm once a specified time has been reached. As the user adjusts and changes the temperature control, the temperature will rise or fall accordingly. It works primarily due to a sensor that shuts off once the temperature is reached. From that point on, the control instructs the rear fan to push out enough heat to ensure the oven cavity is kept at a controlled heat level.