What causes an oven igniter to fail?

Author: Corine Rath  |  Last update: Monday, June 22, 2026

Excessive Build-up: Over time food particles and other contaminants may fall onto the igniter. If this debris builds up it will eventually prevent the igniter from heating up and creating a flame.

What causes an oven igniter to stop working?

Any kind of soot buildup or corrosion around the igniter can cause an issue, wire insulation that's compromised can cause issues, the control board itself can be the issue. Also clean the burner screws and mounts so the burner itself is well grounded. That system is great until it's not and then it becomes a huge PIA.

How long should an oven igniter last?

Have you noticed your gas oven is taking too long to heat up, or it no longer heats at all? There's a 95 percent chance you just need to replace a $25 igniter. Gas oven igniters last around eight years.

How much does it cost to replace the igniter on a gas oven?

A gas oven igniter replacement costs $150 to $325 on average, depending on the brand and model. A new oven igniter costs $20 to $50 for the part alone. A broken igniter results in the oven not heating, clicking noises without lighting the gas, and gas leaks.

Is it cheaper to repair or replace an oven?

The rule of thumb is that if repair costs exceed 50% of the price to install a new oven, you should buy a new oven instead of replacing it. For example, if your oven costs $2,000 but costs $1,500 to repair, you could use that $1,500 for a new and improved oven.

Testing a faulty ignitor on your range or oven. Troubleshooting a gas odor.

Can you light a gas oven if the igniter is broken?

The igniter is the key component of a gas oven. If you have a faulty igniter, many of the other components will not work and the oven will not turn on.

What are the symptoms of a bad igniter?

Here are a few indications that you have a faulty ignitor.
  • No Cold Air. ...
  • The Furnace Won't Come On. ...
  • The Furnace Suddenly Stops Blowing. ...
  • Starts, Then Stops, Then Starts Again. ...
  • Tripping the Breaker More Than Once. ...
  • I Hear the Click, But Nothing Happens. ...
  • Flame Sensor Problems. ...
  • Short Circuit.

Can I clean my gas oven igniter?

Locate the igniter near the oven burner at the back of the oven. Use a soft brush or a can of compressed air to gently remove any food particles, or grease from the igniter. Be careful not to apply excessive force to avoid damaging the igniter. Do not use water or any liquid cleaner on the igniter.

Why is my gas stove working but not the oven?

If your gas stovetop is heating but not your oven, it could indicate an issue with your gas ignitor. It may be dirty from buildup and just need cleaning. Check your owner's manual for the location and proper cleaning instructions. Consider contacting a service professional for the repair.

Why does my igniter keep going?

If you see any gaps, bends, or other mishap that makes the burner cap not fit snuggly on top, then that might be the reason your stove keeps clicking. A misshaped burner cap needs to be replaced as the clicking sound you hear could be the gas stove's igniter constantly trying to spark, even when it's turned off.

Does a new oven igniter smell?

An oven's igniter produces the energy that ignites the gas, preparing the oven to heat to your selected temperature. While it's normal to catch a whiff of gas when you first switch your oven on, you shouldn't smell it the whole time it runs.

Why is my oven igniter not clicking?

The Spark Module Is Broken

The spark module provides power to the igniter, which lights the stove. When it's broken or not functioning properly, you probably won't hear the stove clicking and have no spark.

Do oven igniters wear out?

A gas oven igniter works by sparking and heating the gas emitted from the oven, so without it, the oven will not be able to produce heat. However, as so much rests on this little igniter, they are prone to a bit of wear and tear.

Why would an igniter stop working?

Make sure that the igniter is making a clicking noise when you press the igniter button. If it doesn't click, then the wires may not be connected properly, the battery may be dead or installed incorrectly, or the igniter module may have failed.

Why does my gas oven igniter then go out?

An oven that won't stay lit could be due to a faulty or weak igniter, gas supply problems, or clogged burner ports, which are common culprits for this issue.

Why do gas oven igniters fail?

A spark igniter electrode is made of metal and the base of the igniter is ceramic. This ceramic base can withstand the high temperatures put out by the burners. The ceramic is fragile and over time may crack or may have other damages and it may be shorting to ground and unable to ignite the gas flame.

How much does it cost to replace an oven igniter?

Igniter. You'll pay $150 to $250 to repair the igniter. Igniters are crucial parts of gas ovens, as they are responsible for igniting the gas to give heat and cook your food. So, if the igniter is faulty, the oven simply won't heat, but it's dangerous, too, because it can result in gas leaks.

How long should an igniter last?

Because of this, igniters have a 3-5 year life expectancy. They will eventually crack and need to be replaced. If you suspect that you have a damaged HSI, you will most likely be able to change the part yourself. Like a light bulb, they are a regular replacement item.

How do I reset my igniter?

Reset The Furnace Ignitor

Find the burner door on the furnace and look behind it to find the ignitor. Turn it to “OFF” and wait for five minutes. After you wait, turn it back on and return the door to the burner. It is important to make sure the switch on the door is properly engaged.

How do you fix a gas oven igniter?

How to Replace an Oven Igniter in a Gas Range
  1. Step 1: Confirm that the igniter is the cause of your problem. ...
  2. Step 2: Purchase a replacement igniter. ...
  3. Step 3: Get access to the broken igniter. ...
  4. Step 4: Remove the old igniter. ...
  5. Step 5: Install the new igniter. ...
  6. Step 6 – Test and reassemble your range.

How long do ovens last?

The life expectancy of an electric oven is around 13 - 15 years. The life expectancy of a gas oven is around 15 years. The life expectancy of a dual-fuel oven is also around 15 years. However, the lifespan of these kitchen appliances depends on how frequently you use them.

How to clean a dirty oven igniter?

Get a clean, soft-bristled toothbrush. Before you start brushing, gently blow on the igniter to get rid of any loose bits. Now, very gently brush the surface of the igniter. These igniters can be pretty fragile, so use light, short strokes and don't press hard.

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