Rotisserie Oven Maintenance

A rotisserie is relatively easy to test and fix. This Fix-It Guide on rotisserie repair tells how a rotisserie works, what often goes wrong, how to identify a rotisserie problem, and what parts and tools you will need to fix it. It then gives simple step-by-step instructions for how to disassemble a rotisserie. This Guide also refers to electrical cord repair, heating element repair, appliance control repair, and motor repair for specific information.

How Does a Rotisserie Work?

A rotisserie is a small heating appliance with a rotating spit. An open rotisserie has a covered heating element, a wire grilling rack, and a roasting spit that is turned by a motor. The rotisserie allows air to circulate freely around food for consistent heat. Fat drains away into a removable tray for disposal. Because many rotisseries have separate power cords for the motor and element, you also can use the appliance as an electric grill. An enclosed rotisserie has two heating elements, one on top and one on the bottom of the cabinet, so it also can serve as a broiler oven.

What Can Go Wrong with a Rotisserie?

A rotisserie is subject to the same problems as other small heating appliances. The power cord, the heating element, the timer, the motor, the thermostat, and the switch can all malfunction. They are relatively easy to diagnose and fix

How Can You Identify a Rotisserie Problem?

• If the rotisserie doesn’t heat, make sure power is on at the outlet and test the electrical cord and replace it if it is faulty. Test the heating element and replace it if it is faulty.
• If the rotisserie has a timer, check for damaged leads and test the timer for continuity.
• If cleaning with electrical contact cleaner fails, replace the timer.
• If the rotisserie has a separate on-off switch, test the switch and replace it if it is faulty.
• If the rotisserie is noisy, check the motor gears and replace the motor if necessary.
• If the rotisserie heats but the spit doesn’t turn, test the motor and replace it if it is faulty.
• If the rotisserie heats poorly, test the timer and replace it if necessary. Test the thermostat and replace or repair it if it is faulty.

What Do You Need for Rotisserie Repair?

You can find replacement parts for your rotisserie from the manufacturer or aftermarket suppliers such as small appliance parts houses. The tools you’ll need to fix a rotisserie include these:

• Screwdrivers
• Wrenches
• Multimeter

Disassemble a rotisserie:

1. Make sure the appliance is unplugged and cool before you begin to disassemble it.
2. Use screwdrivers and wrenches as needed to remove the motor from its support, then remove and separate the motor case.
3. Remove the spit, supports, and grilling rack. Some components lift out or unplug while others require unfastening with screwdrivers and wrenches.
4. You now can use a multimeter to test the motor, heating element, and appliance controls as needed.

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