Can a Cooker Be Repaired? What to Do When Your Oven or Hob Stops Working

When your cooker suddenly stops heating, the burners won’t light, or the control panel goes dark, it’s easy to think it’s time to buy a new one. But before you start browsing online for a replacement, ask yourself: can a cooker be repaired? The answer isn’t always yes - but it’s often more yes than you’d expect.

Most cookers can be fixed - if the damage isn’t too deep

Modern cookers, whether gas or electric, are built with replaceable parts. The heating element, thermostat, ignition system, door seal, or control board can all fail independently. None of these mean the whole unit is dead. A broken element in an electric oven? That’s a $40 part and a 30-minute job. A faulty gas igniter? Common, cheap, and easily swapped. These aren’t rare failures - they’re normal wear and tear.

According to appliance repair data from New Zealand’s Consumer Protection Agency, over 65% of cooker complaints in 2025 were resolved with simple repairs. Only 18% required full replacement. That means for every three broken cookers, two can be brought back to life. You’re not throwing money away by trying to fix it - you’re saving it.

What parts actually break the most?

Not all failures are created equal. Some parts wear out fast. Others last decades. Here’s what actually needs replacing most often:

• Heating elements - Especially in electric ovens. The coils crack from repeated heating and cooling. Signs: uneven baking, no heat, or visible gaps in the element.
• Thermostats - If your oven runs too hot or too cold, the thermostat is likely off. It’s not calibrated - it’s broken. Replacing it fixes temperature control.
• Gas igniters - On gas cookers, if you hear clicking but no flame, the igniter is worn out. They’re designed to last 5-7 years. After that, they weaken.
• Door seals - A torn or cracked seal lets heat escape. Your oven works harder, your bills go up, and food cooks unevenly. Easy fix, low cost.
• Control panels - Touchscreens or buttons that don’t respond? Often just a loose wire or a failed circuit board. Not always the whole panel.

These aren’t exotic parts. Most are stocked by local appliance repair shops in Wellington, Auckland, and Christchurch. You’re not waiting weeks for a part. Most come in under 48 hours.

When repair isn’t worth it

There are cases where fixing a cooker makes no sense. Don’t waste money on these:

• Older than 12 years - If your cooker is from before 2014, parts are harder to find. Manufacturers stop supporting models after 10-12 years. Even if you find a part, labor might cost more than a new entry-level unit.
• Multiple failures at once - If the element, thermostat, and control board all die in the same year, the unit is likely worn out. One failure is normal. Three? That’s the end of the line.
• Structural damage - A cracked oven cavity, rusted inner lining, or warped door frame means the metal is failing. No repair can fix that.
• Outdated safety standards - If your cooker lacks modern safety cut-offs or gas leak sensors, it’s a liability. New Zealand updated gas appliance safety rules in 2022. Older models may not meet current codes.

If you’re looking at a repair quote over $400 and your cooker is older than 10 years, it’s probably time to replace it. But if the quote is under $250 and the unit is under 8 years old? Go for the repair.

How to know if you’re being scammed

Not every repair person has your best interest at heart. Here’s how to spot a red flag:

• They say "the whole unit is dead" without testing - A good technician will check voltage, test elements with a multimeter, and inspect gas lines before giving an answer.
• They quote $500 to replace a $30 part - If they’re charging you $400 in labor for a simple igniter swap, they’re overcharging. Labor for that job should be $80-$120.
• They don’t offer a warranty - Reputable repairers give at least a 90-day guarantee on parts and labor. If they don’t, walk away.
• They pressure you to buy a new cooker - A trustworthy tech will tell you if repair is worth it. If they push you toward a sale, they’re more interested in commission than your needs.

Ask for a written quote before any work starts. Ask what part they’re replacing and why. Ask for the old part back - you should be able to see the worn-out igniter or cracked element yourself.

What to do next

Here’s your step-by-step plan if your cooker breaks:

1. Unplug it or turn off the gas. Safety first. Don’t try to fix it yourself unless you know what you’re doing.
2. Check the simple stuff. Is the circuit breaker tripped? Is the gas valve open? Is the oven door properly closed? These are common oversights.
3. Look up the model number. It’s usually on a sticker inside the door or on the back. Write it down. This tells repair shops exactly what parts you need.
4. Call one or two local appliance repair services. Ask for a free quote. Compare prices and warranties.
5. Ask if they have the part in stock. If they need to order it, ask how long it’ll take. Don’t agree to a repair if you’ll be waiting two weeks.
6. Decide based on age and cost. If the repair is under $300 and your cooker is under 8 years old - fix it. Otherwise, start looking at new models.

What to look for in a new cooker

If you do decide to replace it, don’t just buy the cheapest one. Look for these features:

• 5-year warranty - Most good brands offer this on parts and labor.
• Energy efficiency rating - Look for A++ or higher. New Zealand’s energy standards reward efficient cooking.
• Self-cleaning or pyrolytic function - Saves time and reduces maintenance.
• Brand with local support - Brands like Smeg, Bosch, and Fisher & Paykel have repair networks in New Zealand. Avoid no-name brands.

Don’t rush. A new cooker lasts 10-15 years. Spending a bit more now saves you money and hassle later.

Bottom line: Can a cooker be repaired?

Yes - and it often should be. Most cooker failures are simple, affordable, and quick to fix. You’re not being cheap by repairing - you’re being smart. Only replace when the cost of repair outweighs the value of the unit, or when safety becomes a concern.

Don’t assume your cooker is dead. Get it checked. Ask questions. Compare quotes. You might be surprised how much life is still left in it.