I used an ABC dry chem fire extinguisher on a Frigidaire stainless steel self-cleaning oven (there was a bag of chips in a big plastic shopping bag left in the oven when the oven was turned on... big fire... dumb me... if only I had baking soda). I vacuumed out all the chem and ash and chips and used dry paper towels to wipe out an oily residue on the bottom plate of the oven.

The dry chem supposedly has a corrosive effect on metal and it appears that includes the porcelain coating on the bottom plate.

Some questions:
Can this oven still be used?
Is the porcelain shot and hence the self-clean feature not usable as is?
Can I replace the bottom plate and the bottom element and be back in business?
Are there any concerns with having used the dry chemical (ie. it's in the crevices and will become toxic when heated, etc.)?

This is a 6-month old $1200 oven with a warmer in the bottom drawer... I would hate to have to replace it. Stupid is as stupid does. I deserve all the laughs and flames anyone hurls at me but if you have any solid answers - that would be appreciated.

Hi,

Don't feel bad, we all have done something like this before, no ones perfect.

These are all excellent questions, but I don't have the answer. You may want to call or go down to your local Fire Department and I'm sure they will know more about the after effects of the dry chem.

Whats the model# of your range?

Jake

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Star Appliance Tech. 2 yrs. 1988-1990
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Thanks for your reply... Here is an update on the situation. I talked to the fire department and they called a fire extinguisher company who said the range should be usable. I cleaned (and cleaned and cleaned) out the oven and fired it up and it is working alright. I am sure the chemicals in ABC fire extinguishers can cause harm to electronics and could give off fumes as the websites say but I wonder if they overstate the hazards to cover their backsides. Anyway, I'll need new oven racks but will otherwise be back in business... with a big box of baking soda in the kitchen and a little wiser for the wear (I hope).

Sounds good, Whats the model# of your range? We can locate some really inexpensive oven racks for you.

Jake

__________________
Appliance Repair School 1987-1988
Star Appliance Tech. 2 yrs. 1988-1990
Wards Appliance Tech. 11 yrs. 1990-2001
Sears Appliance Tech. 4 yrs. 2001-Oct. 2005
Jake's Appliance Repair Nov. 2005-present

If you need more repair advice help on your appliance, click Here

Look-Up & Order Parts

Shop Home Appliances