Cooker Repair – Quick Fixes for Stoves and Pressure Cookers

If your cooker is acting up, you don’t have to scramble for a new one right away. Most issues are cheap to fix and can be solved in a day. Below we break down the most common problems, when to repair, and why a local expert like Wells Appliance Repairs is your best bet.

When to Repair vs Replace Your Cooker

First off, ask yourself three quick questions: Is the cooker still under warranty? How old is it? And how much will the repair cost compared to a new unit? A 15‑year‑old stove, for example, might need a pricey part that equals the price of a brand‑new model. Our blog post Is it Worth Fixing a 15-Year-Old Stove? dives into that exact calculation.

If the repair is under 50 % of the price of a new cooker, it’s usually worth fixing. Also consider energy efficiency – newer models use less power, which can save you money in the long run. But if the appliance is leaking, making strange noises, or the thermostat is dead, the safety risk often outweighs any cost savings.

Common Cooker Problems and Simple Fixes

Most stoves and pressure cookers share a handful of trouble spots. Below are the ones you can often spot yourself before calling a pro.

• Uneven heating – A dirty burner or a clogged gas line can cause hot spots. Cleaning the burner caps and checking for blockages often restores even heat.
• Faulty pressure valve – In pressure cookers, a stuck valve can lead to dangerous pressure build‑up. Swapping the gasket or cleaning the valve seat usually solves the issue. See our guide Can a Pressure Cooker Be Repaired? A Practical Guide for step‑by‑step tips.
• Ignition problems – If the burner won’t spark, the igniter may be dirty or the wiring loose. A quick wipe with a damp cloth or tightening the connector often does the trick.
• Control board glitches – Modern electric stoves use electronic boards that can fail. Resetting the unit (unplug for a minute) can clear minor glitches. Persistent errors need a board replacement.
• Leaking seals – Pressure cookers rely on a tight seal. A cracked or worn gasket is cheap to replace and stops steam leaks.

Whenever you see these signs, give your cooker a quick visual check. If you’re not comfortable opening it up, that’s when you call in the pros.

At Wells Appliance Repairs, we’ve seen every cooker fault under the UK roof. Our technicians carry the right parts for most stoves and pressure cookers, and we work fast – often fixing the issue in a single visit. We also offer a free inspection, so you’ll know exactly what you’re paying for.

Beyond fixing, we give you maintenance tips to extend your cooker’s life. Simple habits like wiping spills right away, descaling weekly, and checking the pressure valve for wear can add years to your appliance. For more detailed advice, check out our blog post Understanding Pressure Cooker Lifespan and Maintenance Tips.

Bottom line: most cooker problems aren’t a death sentence. Identify the issue, weigh repair cost, and call a trusted local service if you’re unsure. With the right approach, you’ll keep cooking without breaking the bank.