Bread Machine Troubleshooting - how to fix

Bread Machine Troubleshooting: How To Fix

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This article is about troubleshooting and fixing issues with the bread maker machine itself.

If you are experiencing problems with your bread machine, don’t worry – you’re not alone! Bread machines can be tricky sometimes, but with a little troubleshooting, you can have them up and running again in no time.

In this article, we will discuss some of the most common issues and problems people experience with bread machines, as well as how to fix them.

So whether your machine is giving you trouble baking bread, making dough, or just won’t turn on at all, we’ve got you covered. Keep reading for more information.

And be sure to check out my article – Kitchen Knife Care: Do’s and Don’ts of Maintaining Knives, and bread machine buying guide or an indoor smokeless grill is worth it too. Or just want some general maintenance guides, I’ve got you covered with my other articles.

What can go wrong with a bread maker machine?

There are a few things that can go wrong with a bread maker machine. The most common issues are related to the pan and the paddles. Next, temperature controls or timer/programming may not be functioning as desired. I have tried to provide troubleshooting steps and answers to common bread machine issues.

Why is my bread maker paddle not turning?

The paddle is installed in the pan and rotates to mix and knead the dough. If it is not turning then you need to check a few things:

  1. Is the Bread Maker Power On? If not, turn it on.
  2. Check if there are any obstructions preventing the free movement of the paddles. Sometimes dough can get stuck to the paddle and prevent it from turning freely.
  3. Are the paddles installed/seated properly? If they are not seated fully on the knob, they will not turn.

Why isn’t my breadmaker mixing?

Similar to the issue above, if the bread machine is not mixing, it may be the paddles are not turning. Check the paddles as well as the power to the machine. And check for obstructions as well.

Why does the Bread Machine stop in mid-cycle?

This is often a Bread Machine Timer issue or Bread Machine Programming issue. The Bread Maker Timer will stop the machine automatically when it has completed the cycle. If this happens too early, check Bread Machine Timer programming.

You may need to adjust Bread Maker Timer settings on your machine. For example, the Bread Maker Timer may be programmed to stop the machine when the bread is done, but if you need it to continue baking for a bit longer, you will need to Bread Maker Timer programming accordingly.

Bread machines have various Bread Machine Timer settings, so make sure they are set correctly for your needs.

How do I reset my bread maker?

If your bread maker is not functioning properly, you may need to reset it. To do this, unplug the machine and wait a few minutes. Then plug it back in and restart the machine.

If this doesn’t work, you may need to refer to your bread maker’s manual for more specific instructions on how to reset it.

Your machine may also have a Start/Reset button that you can press to reset any programming function and start over.

How do I fix my bread maker pan?

The Bread Maker Pan is a key component of the machine. If it is damaged, you may need to replace it. Check the following first:

If your Bread Maker Pan is damaged, you can try and work around the issue by:

  1. Try using a Bread Maker Pan liner, such as parchment paper.
  2. Try spraying the Bread Maker Pan with cooking spray (make sure it is safe for use with non-stick surfaces).

You can order a new pan anywhere from $50 to $80 dollars. A new paddle might cost about $8 to $18 dollars. And a new seal for the pan may be about $12 dollars.

If the pan is in good shape, you may only need to replace the seal which will depend on your model. Generally, the seal is accessible and can be replaced somewhat easily, it will be located on the bottom of the pan. You will need to carefully remove the paddles and the supporting pins.

“HOT” is shown on the display

This indicates the unit is too hot and needs to cool slightly. It is most likely above 104 degrees Fahrenheit and will not operate until it cools.

You may also see “HHH” displayed on your machine, this also indicates the temperature is too high and it needs to cool down.

I set the timer, but my bread maker didn’t start

This is most likely because the bread maker is following its program and maybe using a delay start function. Double-check your model’s delay setting and if needed, Turn off and unplug the machine for a few minutes, then plug it back in and try setting the timer again.

The bread maker is not mixing

The paddles in the bottom of the pan may not be installed correctly or may be slipping. You’ll need to check the paddles to ensure they are seated fully on the shafts.

Another reason is the bread pan may be out of alignment or the motor could have burned out. If you see any black smoke coming from under the machine, it is most likely the motor.

A third reason is the bread machine may not have power. Ensure it is plugged in and functional.

The bread maker is over-mixing my dough

This problem usually occurs because there are too many ingredients in the pan or not enough water. Try adding fewer ingredients next time or adding a little more water.

The bread maker is not baking my bread

There are many reasons why your bread machine may not be baking the bread correctly. One of the most common causes is the Bread Machine Cycle was not selected. Ensure the unit is plugged in, the pan is installed correctly, the program has been selected, and the machine is set to the correct time.

I can’t find my bread maker manual

Don’t worry. You can usually find a copy of the manual online by doing a quick search for your manufacturer and model number, or by contacting customer service.

Here are a few links to popular bread machine manuals:

Zojirushi PDC-20 Bread Machine Manual

Hamilton Beach Bread Machine Manual

Cuisinart Bread Machine

The bread machine rattles during operation

A bread maker that rattles or is unbalanced is usually caused by the bread pan not being inserted properly or not being seated securely. Check the pan and reseat it.

Note that this is not the same as the machine being noisy, it will make some noise as the paddles rotate and knead the dough.

Bread machine troubleshooting – Summary

Hopefully, this article has helped you troubleshoot some of the common problems with bread machines. If you are still having trouble fixing your machine, or if it is beyond your repair, contact your machine’s manufacturer. Also, consider purchasing a new bread machine. Thanks for reading.