Electric self cleaning ovens

[def]

I've always been suspicious of self-cleaning ovens and thought they were a danger. In order to clean, they must heat to very high temperatures and incinerate the stuff stuck to the oven surfaces. The heat in and around the oven during the cleaning cycle is evident and of concern. Also, the cabinet surrounding the oven must get hot, as well.

Are there many fires or electrical failures associated with electric self-cleaning ovens?

I have cleaned my oven only once on 4 years because of the concern. Are the ovens really up to the task of tolerating the high temperatures?

Also, any hints as to how to reduce cleaning frequency? Is putting aluminum foil in the bottom under the heating element a good idea? My wife wants her oven clean all the time but, I'm reluctant to use the cleaning feature regularly.

Do I need a shrink or some therapy or are my fears well founded?   

[domain]

Just because you CAN, does NOT mean you SHOULD.

[JWWebster]

We have seen multiple questions: I just did a self clean and now the oven won't work? Since most stoves now have electronics instead of the old tried and true mercury based oven controls my hypothesis is this: the extreme high temps associated with self clean messes up them delicate shocktronics. 

[def]

Just because you CAN, does NOT mean you SHOULD.

No, but sometimes you must.   

[def]

We have seen multiple questions: I just did a self clean and now the oven won't work? Since most stoves now have electronics instead of the old tried and true mercury based oven controls my hypothesis is this: the extreme high temps associated with self clean messes up them delicate shocktronics. 

Oh no! More control board failures? I just got the Maytag Neptune sorted out and now, my oven is gonna go up in smoke?      

[Bailey]

The trouble with regular foil is that it is so thin it can stick to the oven liner. Whirlpool sells some aluminum foil designed for use in the oven. Part #241430

[RegUS_PatOff]

search 'da Bay for: Reusable Oven Liner
Made of silicone and can withstand up to 450F
I'm not sure if it can be placed on the "floor" of a gas Oven,
but can be used on one of the lower shelves.