STEP 4: Check the oven thermometer and determine the actual temperature inside your oven. If it does not read 350 degrees, subtract the two numbers from each other to determine how far off the oven is, and in which direction. (My thermometer came out at 420 degrees — 70 degrees too hot!)
FOR OVENS WITH MANUAL DIALS/KNOBS:
Pull off the oven temperature control knob, and look on the back. There should be a small dial to adjust the knob to make the oven hotter or cooler. You may need to use a screwdriver to loosen and adjust the dial.
Place the thermometer back into the oven, and set to 350 degrees. Wait another 15-20 minutes to allow the oven to preheat fully.
Remove the thermometer and check the temperature. You may need to repeat the process a couple of times to get the temperature just right. (Mine took three tries!)
FOR OVENS WITH DIGITAL CONTROL PANELS:
The calibration procedure may vary a bit from brand to brand. You can find instructions in your owner’s manual, or visit the manufacturer’s website.
For a GE oven, the process is as follows:
1. Press the “Bake” and “Broil” button at the same time until “SF” appears on the control panel.
2. Press the “Bake” button again until “00” appears on the control panel.
3. Use the up-and-down arrows to adjust the temperature accordingly.
4. Press the “Start” button to save your changes.
FOR OVENS WITH A DIGITAL CONTROL PANEL:
Calibration procedures may vary a bit from oven to oven. You can find the procedure specific to your particular oven in your owner’s manual, or by visiting the manufacturer’s website.
For a GE oven:
1. Press “Bake” and “Broil” at the same time until “SF” appears on the display.
2. Press “Bake” again until “00” appears on the display.
3. Use the up and down arrows to adjust the temperature accordingly.
4. Press “Start” to save your changes.