How To Use the Broiler on a Whirlpool Oven

The broiler on your Whirlpool oven can be a powerful cooking tool when used correctly. Whether you’re looking to sear a steak, melt cheese on a casserole, or give your lasagna a crispy top, the broiler can do it all. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to use the broiler on a Whirlpool oven.

What is a Broiler and Where is it Located?

The broiler in an oven functions similarly to a grill, providing high, direct heat to the food. In most Whirlpool ovens, the broiler is located at the top of the oven cavity. However, some models feature a separate broiler drawer located under the main oven cavity. Refer to your oven’s user manual to confirm the location of the broiler in your specific model.

Preparing to Broil

Before you start broiling, there are a few preparatory steps you should take:

1. Adjust the oven rack to the appropriate position for broiling. The top rack position will sear the outside rapidly, while the inside will be rare.
2. Use a broiler pan and grid that are designed to drain juices and help avoid spatter and smoke. Do not cover the grid with foil. However, you may line the bottom of the broiler pan with aluminum foil for easier cleaning.
3. Trim excess fat from the meat to reduce spattering. Slit the remaining fat on the edges to avoid curling.

How to Broil in a Whirlpool Oven

Now that you’re prepared, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of broiling:

1. Preheat your broiler for about 5 minutes before placing your food inside.
2. Place the food on the broiler pan and center it on the rack.
3. Close the oven door to ensure proper broiling temperature.
4. Press the “Broil” button on your oven’s control panel and set the oven to “Hi” or “Low” broiling using the “0” number pad. Press once for “Hi” broiling temperatures or twice for “Low” broiling temperatures.
5. Monitor the food during broiling and use tongs to turn it to avoid the loss of juices. Very thin cuts of fish, poultry, or meat may not need to be turned.
6. After broiling, remove the pan from the oven when removing the food. Drippings will bake on the pan if left in the heated oven, making cleaning more difficult.

Safety Precautions When Broiling

Broiling involves high temperatures, so it’s important to take safety precautions. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Let hot air or steam escape before removing or replacing food.
• Keep the oven clean. Grease is flammable, so do not allow it to collect around the cooktop or in vents. Wipe spillovers immediately.
• Do not use oven cleaners or oven liner protective coating of any kind in or around any part of the oven.
• Remove the broiler pan, oven racks, and other utensils before initiating the self-cleaning cycle.

Troubleshooting Common Broiler Issues

If you’re having trouble with your broiler, here are some common issues and solutions:

• Burned-out broil element: If the broil element doesn’t glow red, it may be burned out. Look for visible breaks or blistering.
• Control board/clock issues: If the broiler malfunctions, replacing the control board or clock may resolve the issue.
• Stuck relay on the control board: If the broiler element stays on and overheats, replacing the relay might fix the problem.
• Oven door not closed properly: The broil element won’t come on if the door is open. Ensure the door is closed properly.

By following these steps and precautions, you can make the most of your Whirlpool oven’s broiler feature. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner in the kitchen, understanding how to use the broiler on a Whirlpool oven can open up a world of culinary possibilities. Happy cooking!