Have you ever experienced a situation where your gas stove igniter clicks but there’s no gas coming out of the oven? You can even smell the gas oven gas smell. Despite the igniter working and gas being released, the burner fails to light up. This article explores the causes of this problem and potential solutions to help you resolve the issue.
Common Causes of Burner Ignition Failure
- Clogged Burner Hole The gas released by the copper pipe beneath the burner surface reaches the igniter through a small hole. Food debris can easily clog this hole, preventing gas from coming into contact with the igniter, or drastically reducing the gas supply, resulting in no flame. Partial blockage also means the burner doesn’t ignite due to a lack of contact between the two.
- Malfunctioning Gas Valve The gas valve controls the flow of gas necessary for ignition. Any issues with the gas valve hinder the flow of gas. The pipe below the cooktop surface is directly connected to the gas valve. A gas valve can malfunction due to wear and tear or insufficient voltage being supplied to it.
- Failed Gas Pressure Regulator The gas pressure regulator, located behind the gas valve, consists of an inlet, outlet, a spring, and a diaphragm mechanism to control gas flow. The failure of any of these components hampers the gas pressure, and the gas might not be released. Since the gas will fail to flow, there will be no flame.
Gas Stove Clicks But Doesn’t Light: The Culprit
The blockage of the hole that allows the flow of gas to the igniter is the primary reason why the gas stove won’t light even when you hear the clicking sound.
How to Fix a Gas Stove That Doesn’t Spark
The solution depends on the exact problem:
- Clearing a Blocked Hole To unblock the hole beneath the burner surface, follow these steps:
- Remove the top burner surface once it cools down.
- Spot the hole from the inner side of the burner, adjacent to the gas igniter.
- Use a pin or a needle to pierce the hole from the igniter side to remove any debris or blockage.
Once the hole is clear, place the burner lid on top and turn on the gas stove. The flame should come to life after clearing the blockage, as most of the time, it is food debris or grease that prevents gas flow to the igniter.
- Addressing a Problematic Gas Valve Disassembling the gas stovetop assembly to check the gas valve requires professional expertise. If the problem is with the gas valve, only a professional will be able to fix it. In cases of electrical issues, an expert can check the power supply and electric current flow to resolve the problem.
- Dealing with a Failed Gas Pressure Regulator If the problem is the failed pressure regulator, the solution can be multiple:
- Consult the gas stove manual to locate the position of the shut-off valve and ensure that it is in the open position.
- If the valve is already open and there is no smell of gas when turning on the stove, the problem is likely with the regulator, in which case replacement is the only solution.
Do Gas Stove Igniters Wear Out?
Yes, gas stove igniters can wear out, especially in commercial kitchens. To determine whether the igniter is at fault, perform these checks:
- Turn on the knob and listen for the clicking sound of the igniter or watch for a small spark near the igniter. If it appears, the problem isn’t with the igniter.
- Ensure that gas is being supplied to the gas stove.
- Check the igniter for dirt, debris, or other contaminants. If it is dirty, clean it before use.
- Check the electrical connections of the gas stove and ensure that the valves are in the on position.
If the supply lines are proper, valves are in the correct position, and gas is being supplied, then the igniter might be the problem in the absence of a spark.
When the Gas Igniter is the Problem
If the gas igniter is the issue, replacement is the only solution. Hire a professional for Frigidaire range repair to source the replacement part or order one online and then hire a professional to replace it. The gas stove manual specifies the type of igniter needed.
Resetting Your Igniter
Before calling a professional to replace the igniter, it is best to reset the igniter. If the gas stove starts lighting up again, there is no need to replace the igniter.
- Disconnect the cooktop electrical connections.
- Remove the burner top to view the igniter.
- Move the igniter to the off position and leave it for at least 5 minutes.
- After 5 minutes, move it to the on position and place the burner on top.
- Reconnect the power source and try igniting the burner again.
If the gas stove ignites after one or two attempts, it indicates that the problem was a minor glitch and nothing else. Otherwise, as previously highlighted, replacement is the only solution.
Cost of Igniter Replacement
The price of an igniter can vary based on the brand and other factors, typically ranging from $150 to $200. However, the igniter itself costs only $75, with the remaining expenses covering the professional labor required for installation. While replacing an igniter can be challenging, you may be able to save on labor fees if you’re confident in your skills.
To sum up, understanding the prevalent causes and viable solutions for a gas oven that refuses to light can save you both time and money. Whether it’s a blocked burner hole, a malfunctioning gas valve, or a defective gas pressure regulator, adhering to the steps outlined in our article can assist you in troubleshooting and rectifying the problem. In more intricate situations, enlisting a professional for Frigidaire range repair might be essential to guarantee your gas stove operates accurately and safely. Learn more about the environmental implications and igniter issues in our in-depth analysis.
