Why does my gas oven have flames burning up the sides until preheated is this normal for a GE oven?

Flames burning up the sides of your gas oven until it's preheated can indicate a few common issues:

1. Venturi Tubes Are Blocked: Venturi tubes are small metal tubes located near the burner's igniter. They supply air to the burner's flame, ensuring proper combustion. Over time, these tubes can become blocked with food residue or grease, causing the flame to burn with reduced air supply. This leads to flames crawling up the sides of the oven.

2. Air Shutter Misaligned: Every burner in a gas oven has a metal shutter/damper that controls the flow of air to the burner. If the air shutter is misaligned or not properly adjusted, it can disrupt the air-to-gas mixture, leading to flames shooting up the sides of the oven.

3. Inadequate Gas Supply: If the gas supply to the oven is insufficient, it can cause the burners to burn inefficiently with tall, yellow, and unstable flames. This may occur if the gas valve is partially closed, or there's a restriction in the gas line or at the connection point.

4. Damaged Spark Igniters: Faulty spark igniters can lead to inconsistent ignition, causing the gas to build up and then ignite rapidly, resulting in larger and uncontrolled flames. This phenomenon is more prevalent during preheating when the gas builds up before being adequately mixed with air.

5. Oven Door Issues: If the oven door is not tightly sealed, it can cause an imbalance in the airflow, affecting how the burner flames mix and combust. An improper door seal may allow some of the heat to escape, disrupting the normal operation of the oven.

To ensure the safety and proper functioning of your gas oven, it is recommended to address these issues. For any gas-related issues or adjustments, it's advisable to seek the assistance of a qualified technician or a licensed gas fitter to avoid potential risks. They can properly inspect and resolve any gas oven problems, ensuring safe and efficient usage.