Oven or range isn't level after installation

Symptoms

• Water or batter visibly pools to one side of a pan
• Door seems to have a slight gap on one side
• Range rocks slightly when pressed on a corner
• Baked goods consistently lean or bake unevenly on one side

Likely causes

• CommonLeveling legs not adjusted during installationMost ranges have adjustable feet at the base that need manual leveling after placement, which installers sometimes skip.
• CommonUneven kitchen floorOlder homes or floors with settling can be uneven enough to require significant leg adjustment.
• PossibleRange not fully pushed back or seated against the wall/cabinetsA range sitting at an angle relative to its cabinet opening can appear unlevel even if the appliance itself is fine.
• Less commonAnti-tip bracket not properly engaged, allowing slight movementAn improperly installed anti-tip bracket can allow the range to sit or shift slightly off level.

What to do

1. Place a level on top of the range, checking both side-to-side and front-to-back.
2. Locate the adjustable leveling legs, usually accessible at the front base and sometimes rear, per your model's manual.
3. Adjust the legs incrementally, rechecking with the level after each adjustment, until it reads level in both directions.
4. Confirm the range is pushed back fully and sits square within its cabinet opening.
5. Check that an anti-tip bracket, if required, is properly installed and engaged per the installation manual.
6. Retest by placing a shallow pan of water on the middle rack (oven off) to visually confirm it doesn't pool to one side.
7. If leveling legs are maxed out and the range still isn't level, the floor itself may need shimming, which a technician or installer can advise on.

Tools and parts

• Level
• Wrench or pliers for adjusting legs

When to call a pro

If leveling legs are fully adjusted and the range still isn't level, an installer can advise on shimming the floor underneath.

Safety