How to Troubleshoot and Repair Your Tappan 1159 Oven: A Comprehensive Guide

I spent last Saturday wrestling with my tappan 1159 oven, and wow, did it give me a run for my money. It wouldn’t heat up, then the temp kept tanking, and the door gasket looked like it was falling apart. I poked around, swapped some parts, and learned a ton about what can go sideways. In this guide, I’ll walk you through spotting odd behaviors, testing bits with a multimeter, swapping out burners, tuning the thermostat, sealing leaks, and keeping your oven in shape. It’s all plain talk—no fancy terms—so you can tackle fixes at home without freaking out.

Key Takeaways

• Pinpoint if your tappan 1159 oven won’t warm, drops in temp, or has a leaky door seal

• Tackle electrical hiccups by checking the control lights, strange clicks, and ground wires

• Test bake and broil elements with a multimeter, and swap them out when they’re shot

• Fine-tune your thermostat, double-check an oven thermometer, and tweak control settings

• Seal door gaps, replace worn gaskets, clean spills fast, and do routine checks to avoid trouble

Recognizing Common Tappan 1159 Oven Oddities

Okay, so your Tappan 1159 oven is acting up? Don't worry, you're not alone. These ovens, while generally reliable, can sometimes throw a curveball. Let's look at some common issues you might encounter.

When The Oven Refuses To Warm Up

This is probably the most frustrating issue. You preheat, you wait, and... nothing. The oven stays stubbornly cold. First things first, check the obvious: Is it plugged in? Seriously, it happens. Next, make sure the breaker hasn't tripped. If those are fine, the problem could be a faulty heating element, a bad thermostat, or even a problem with the ignition system (if it's a gas oven, of course).

Here's a quick checklist:

• Verify the oven is properly plugged in.

• Check the circuit breaker or fuse.

• Listen for the igniter clicking (gas ovens).

Handling Sudden Temperature Drops

Imagine baking a cake, and halfway through, the oven temperature plummets. Disaster! This can be caused by a few things. A failing heating element might be cutting out intermittently. The thermostat could also be to blame, misreading the oven's temperature and shutting off the heat too soon. Another culprit? The oven door seal. If it's damaged, heat can escape, causing the oven to work harder and potentially drop in temperature. You might need to check LG stove error codes if you have a different oven.

Spotting Worn Door Seal Mishaps

A bad door seal is like leaving a window open in winter – it lets all the heat out. Visually inspect the seal around the oven door. Is it cracked, brittle, or falling apart? If so, it's time for a replacement. A simple test: close the door on a dollar bill. If you can pull the bill out easily, the seal isn't doing its job. A faulty seal not only wastes energy but also leads to uneven cooking. It's a small fix that can make a big difference.

A properly sealed oven door is crucial for maintaining consistent temperatures and efficient cooking. Replacing a worn seal is a relatively inexpensive repair that can save you money on your energy bill and improve your baking results.

Diagnosing Wacky Electrical Glitches

Okay, so your Tappan 1159 is acting like it's possessed by a mischievous gremlin. Don't panic! Electrical issues can seem scary, but with a little patience, you can usually figure out what's going on. We're going to look at some common electrical problems and how to troubleshoot them. Remember to always disconnect the oven from the power source before poking around – safety first, folks!

Control Panel Lights Playing Hide And Seek

Is your control panel flickering like a disco ball or completely dark? This could be a sign of a few things. First, check the circuit breaker. It might have tripped. If that's not it, the problem could be a loose connection or a faulty control panel.

• Check the oven's power cord to ensure it's securely plugged into the outlet.

• Inspect the wiring connections behind the control panel for any loose or damaged wires.

• If you're comfortable, use a multimeter to test the voltage at the control panel.

If the voltage is low or nonexistent, you've found your culprit. Time to call in a professional or replace the control panel.

Intermittent Clicking Without Heat

That annoying clicking sound without any heat? That's often a sign of a bad oven igniter or a faulty relay. The igniter is responsible for starting the heating process, and if it's on its last leg, it might click repeatedly without actually igniting the gas. Relays act like electrical switches, and a failing relay can cause intermittent power issues.

Intermittent problems are the worst because they never seem to happen when you're trying to fix them. Try gently wiggling the wires connected to the igniter and relays to see if you can trigger the clicking. If so, you've likely found a loose connection.

Ground Connection Checks That Spark Joy

Okay, maybe "spark joy" is a bit of an exaggeration, but a good ground connection is essential for safety and proper oven operation. A faulty ground can cause all sorts of weird electrical issues, including shocks and erratic behavior. Make sure the oven is properly grounded to the electrical system. Here's how:

• Locate the ground wire (usually green or bare copper) connected to the oven's chassis.

• Ensure the ground wire is securely attached to a grounded electrical outlet or a grounding screw in the electrical panel.

• Use a multimeter to test the continuity between the oven's chassis and the ground connection. It should show very low resistance.

A solid ground connection is crucial for preventing electrical shocks and ensuring the oven operates safely. If you're not comfortable working with electrical wiring, it's always best to call a qualified electrician. Better safe than sorry!

Testing And Replacing Faulty Heating Elements

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty of heating elements. If your Tappan 1159 oven is acting like it's afraid of heat, chances are one of these coils has given up the ghost. Don't worry, it's not as scary as it sounds. We'll walk through how to figure out which one is the culprit and how to swap it out. Think of it as a slightly shocking (but hopefully not literally) adventure.

Identifying A Burnt Out Bake Coil

So, the oven's cold, huh? First suspect: the bake element. This guy lives at the bottom of your oven and is responsible for most of the cooking. Here's how to tell if it's toast:

• Visual Inspection: Look for obvious signs of damage. Are there any blisters, breaks, or burnt spots on the coil? If it looks like it's been through a tiny war, it probably has.

• The Smell Test: Sometimes, a burnt-out element will have a distinct, acrid smell. If your oven smells like something died in it (and you haven't actually cooked anything questionable), this could be your sign.

• Uneven Heating: If your food is cooking unevenly – say, the top is perfect, but the bottom is raw – the bake element might be struggling to do its job. Time to check the oven temperature with a thermometer.

If you suspect a burnt-out bake coil, don't keep using the oven. It's not going to magically fix itself, and you might end up with a half-cooked pizza and a bigger headache.

Swapping In A New Broil Element

The broil element lives at the top of your oven and is responsible for that lovely browning and crisping action. Replacing it is similar to replacing the bake element, but with a slightly different location. Here's the drill:

1. Safety First: Turn off the oven and unplug it. Seriously, don't skip this step. Electricity is not your friend right now.

2. Locate the Broil Element: It's usually screwed or clipped into place at the top of the oven. Remove the screws or release the clips.

3. Disconnect the Wires: Carefully disconnect the wires from the old element. Make a note of which wire goes where (or take a picture!) so you can reconnect them correctly to the new element. This is important!

4. Install the New Element: Connect the wires to the new broil element, making sure they're secure. Screw or clip the new element into place.

5. Test It Out: Plug the oven back in and turn it on. Set it to broil and see if the element glows red. If it does, congratulations! You've successfully replaced the broil element.

Verifying Resistance With A Multimeter

Want to be absolutely sure that heating element is dead before you go through the trouble of replacing it? A multimeter is your friend. This handy tool measures electrical resistance, and a faulty element will usually show infinite resistance (meaning it's not conducting electricity at all).

Here's how to use a multimeter to test a heating element:

• Safety First (Again): Unplug the oven! We can't stress this enough.

• Disconnect the Element: Disconnect the wires from the heating element.

• Set Your Multimeter: Set your multimeter to measure resistance (Ohms – the Ω symbol).

• Test the Element: Place one probe of the multimeter on one terminal of the heating element and the other probe on the other terminal.

• Read the Results: A good heating element will show some resistance (usually between 10 and 40 Ohms, but check your oven's manual for the exact value). If the multimeter reads infinite resistance (or "OL" for "open loop"), the element is toast and needs to be replaced. A reading of zero ohms indicates a short, which is also bad.

Reading	Meaning
10-40 Ohms	Element is likely good.
Infinite/OL	Element is burnt out.
Zero Ohms	Element has a short.

Dealing With Temperature Inconsistencies

Is your Tappan 1159 oven acting like it has a mind of its own when it comes to temperature? One minute you're baking a cake at a perfect 350°F, the next it's either burnt to a crisp or still a gooey mess. Don't worry, you're not alone! Temperature inconsistencies are a common oven complaint, and luckily, there are a few things you can try before calling in the appliance repair cavalry. Let's get this oven back on track!

Calibrating The Thermostat Like A Maestro

Think of your oven's thermostat as the conductor of a culinary orchestra. If it's out of tune, the whole performance suffers. Calibrating the thermostat can often resolve temperature discrepancies. Here's a quick rundown:

1. Locate the thermostat dial. It's usually behind the temperature knob.

2. Use a small screwdriver to adjust the calibration screw. Tiny adjustments are key!

3. Check your oven's temperature using an oven thermometer (more on that below) and adjust accordingly.

It might take a few tries to get it just right, but patience is a virtue, especially when baking.

Verifying Oven Thermometer Accuracy

Before you start messing with the thermostat, it's important to make sure your oven thermometer is telling the truth. Not all thermometers are created equal, and a faulty one can send you on a wild goose chase.

A simple test: place the thermometer in a pot of boiling water. At sea level, it should read 212°F (100°C). If it's off by more than a few degrees, it's time for a new thermometer. Trust me, a good thermometer is an oven owner's best friend.

Tuning Temperature Control Settings

Sometimes, the problem isn't a faulty thermostat or thermometer, but rather the temperature control settings themselves. Many ovens have settings that can be adjusted to compensate for temperature variations. Check your oven's manual for instructions on how to access and modify these settings. It might involve pressing a combination of buttons or navigating through a menu. Think of it as unlocking a secret level in your oven's operating system. If you are having issues with your Thermador refrigerator, you may need to check the error codes to diagnose the problem.

Taming Leaks And Moisture Mishaps

Ovens, like grumpy old men, sometimes develop leaks. And just like that leaky faucet you've been meaning to fix, oven leaks can lead to bigger problems down the road. We're not just talking about drips; we're talking about escaping heat, wasted energy, and potential corrosion. Let's get those leaks under control!

Sealing Gaps Around The Oven Door

That gap around your oven door? It's not just a design feature; it's a potential escape route for heat and moisture. A poorly sealed door can drastically reduce your oven's efficiency. First, give the door and the surrounding frame a good cleaning. Grime buildup can prevent a proper seal. Then, inspect the door's alignment. Is it warped or bent? A slight adjustment might be all it needs. If the door seems fine, move on to the gasket.

Replacing A Stubborn Gasket

The gasket is that rubbery seal around the oven door. Over time, it can become brittle, cracked, or just plain worn out. Replacing it is usually a straightforward process. Here's the gist:

• Find the right replacement gasket for your Tappan 1159 model. Part numbers are your friend.

• Remove the old gasket. It's usually held in place by clips or adhesive. Be gentle!

• Install the new gasket, making sure it's seated properly all the way around. A little adhesive might help.

Replacing the gasket is like giving your oven a new lease on life. It's a small investment that can pay off big in terms of energy savings and cooking performance.

Cleaning Spills Before They Corrode

Spills happen. It's a fact of life. But letting those spills sit and bake onto the bottom of your oven? That's just asking for trouble. Not only do they create unpleasant odors, but they can also lead to corrosion. Here's a simple strategy:

1. Wipe up spills as soon as they happen. A damp cloth and a little elbow grease are usually all you need.

2. For stubborn baked-on messes, try a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit for a while, then scrub.

3. Avoid harsh chemicals, which can damage the oven's interior. A little oven cleaner goes a long way.

Keeping Your Tappan 1159 Oven In Peak Condition

Okay, so you've wrestled with your Tappan 1159 and emerged victorious. High five! But the battle isn't over. Now comes the part where you keep that oven purring like a kitten (a very hot kitten) for years to come. Think of it as preventative maintenance – a little effort now saves you from major headaches (and repair bills) later. Let's dive in, shall we?

Regular Internal Cleaning Without Harsh Chemicals

Listen, nobody loves cleaning the oven. But it's a necessary evil. The key is to do it regularly so you don't end up facing a baked-on Armageddon. Avoid harsh chemicals; they can damage the interior and leave nasty residues. Instead, try a paste of baking soda and water. Let it sit overnight, then scrub away. For stubborn spots, a little vinegar can work wonders. Remember to unplug the oven before you start, unless you want a shocking surprise! Regular cleaning prevents buildup that can affect cooking performance and efficiency.

Lubricating Hinges For Smooth Door Drama

Ever notice your oven door creaking like a haunted house? That's a sign the hinges need some love. A little bit of food-grade lubricant can work wonders. Just a tiny dab on each hinge will keep things moving smoothly and prevent wear and tear. Plus, a quiet door is just nicer, right? It's like giving your oven a spa day. Don't overdo it, though; you don't want lubricant dripping into your food. Speaking of food, make sure you're using safe cleaning practices to keep your oven in tip-top shape.

Scanning Parts For Wear And Tear

Every now and then, give your Tappan 1159 a good once-over. Look for obvious signs of wear and tear: cracks in the heating elements, frayed wires, or a door seal that's seen better days. Catching these problems early can prevent them from turning into major disasters. It's like a regular checkup for your oven. If you spot something suspicious, don't ignore it! Here's a quick checklist:

• Inspect heating elements for cracks or blisters.

• Check the door seal for gaps or tears.

• Examine wiring for fraying or damage.

• Listen for unusual noises during operation.

Treat your oven with respect, and it will reward you with years of delicious meals. Neglect it, and you'll be ordering takeout more often than you'd like. It's all about balance, people. And maybe a little bit of elbow grease.

Your Tappan 1159 oven can stay tip-top for years. Just wipe up spills after every use, watch the seals, and call a pro if anything seems off. Learn more on our website.

## Conclusion

Well, we survived the tangle of wires, knobs, and surprise sparks. Fixing your Tappan 1159 oven might’ve felt like learning a new dance—clumsy at first, but you find your rhythm. You may have muttered a few choice words or sent a tiny screw flying under the fridge (it’s living rent-free now). In the end, you’ve got an oven that actually heats and a smug grin that no quick video can give you. So the next time it acts like a stubborn old mule, roll up your sleeves and give it another shot. Who knows? You might just enjoy this kind of chaos after all. Happy tinkering!

Frequently Asked Questions

Why won’t my Tappan 1159 oven heat up at all?

First, make sure it’s plugged in and the circuit breaker hasn’t tripped. Next, set the temperature and give it a few minutes to warm up. If you still don’t feel heat, the bake element might be burned out. You can check it with a multimeter or call a repair person.

The oven temperature seems too low. How can I fix that?

Your thermostat might need a little tune-up. Place an oven-safe thermometer inside and compare it to your oven’s setting. If it’s off by more than 25°F, you can adjust the oven’s temperature dial following the steps in the manual. If it stays off, the thermostat sensor could be bad.

I see steam or smell smoke leaking from the door. What should I do?

A worn door gasket or loose seal lets heat and moisture escape. Pull the door seal gently around the edges – if it’s brittle or cracked, you’ll need a new one. Make sure it sits tight all the way around the frame when you close the door.

My oven clicks on and off but never gets hot. What could cause that?

That clicking noise usually means the oven is trying to power the element but can’t. It could be a loose wire or a bad relay in the control board. Turn off power, check that the wires are snug, and if the problem continues, you might need to replace the control board.

How do I replace the broil element myself?

First, turn off power at the breaker. Remove the oven racks and unscrew the broil element at the top. Pull it forward gently to free the wires, then swap in your new element the same way. Screw it back, push it flush, and restore power to test.

What’s the best way to keep my oven working well?

Wipe up spills right away so they don’t burn on. Clean the inside with a mild soap and water—avoid harsh chemicals. Check the door hinges and gasket every few months. If parts look worn, replace them before they cause bigger trouble.