You've seen them on late-night TV infomercials. Maybe you have one in the kitchen--or in storage until it's fixed. Fortunately, rotisseries are relatively easy to test and fix. Let's see how the Fix-It Club does it.

How Does It Work?

A rotisserie is a motorized heating appliance with a temperature control or timer.

A rotisserie is a small heating appliance with a rotating spit. An open rotisserie has a covered heating element, a wire grilling rack, and a roasting spit that is turned by a motor. The rotisserie allows air to circulate freely around food for consistent heat. Fat drains away into a removable tray for disposal. Because many rotisseries have separate power cords for the motor and element, you also can use the appliance as an electric grill. An enclosed rotisserie has two heating elements, one on top and one on the bottom of the cabinet, so it also can serve as a broiler oven.

What Can Go Wrong?

A rotisserie is subject to the same problems as other small heating appliances. The power cord, the heating element, the timer, the motor, the thermostat, and the switch can all malfunction. They are relatively easy to diagnose and fix.

Fix-It Tip

As with other small cooking appliances, most problems are caused by improper cleanup after use. Excess grease or food particles can get lodged in places they shouldn't be, potentially damaging electrical components. Make sure you thoroughly clean the unit after each use.