Uneven heating in convection ovens

[Alpha]

What are some reasons a convection oven might heat unevenly, with some areas cooking faster than others?

[machinist]

Uneven heating in a convection oven can happen for several reasons:

Fan or heating element issues are common culprits. When the convection fan isn't working properly or one of the heating elements is failing, heat won't circulate evenly throughout the oven. Sometimes the fan gets blocked by food debris or grease buildup.

Overcrowding the oven is another big factor. When there are too many pans or dishes inside, or they're placed too close together, air can't circulate properly. This defeats the whole purpose of convection cooking, which relies on moving hot air around the food.

Incorrect rack positioning can also cause problems. Placing items too close to the heating elements or blocking the fan vents creates hot and cold spots.

Oven calibration might be off as well. Even when the oven displays the right temperature, the actual internal temperature could be different, leading to uneven cooking. An oven thermometer can reveal whether there's a calibration issue.

Worn door seals can let heat escape, causing temperature fluctuations and uneven cooking, especially in areas near the door.

Regular cleaning and maintenance often resolve these issues. When problems persist, a technician can inspect the fan motor or heating elements to identify any mechanical failures.

[Alpha]

What are the signs that the convection fan might be failing?