Reasons Why Your Oven Is Not Lighting
First, check the gas supply lines and the igniter. If your top igniter is working, but the oven cavity itself will not light, it is the oven igniter that may have a problem. This is not a problem with the gas.
Use a toothbrush and clean the burner bases completely and dry them if they are wet with a hair dryer until they are completely dry. Next, sand the tip of the spark igniter with fine sand paper until it shines again. Now place the cap back on the burner and make sure it's seated flush. Try the burner again.
Use a grill lighter or long match to light the pilot light valve at the bottom of the oven. Some ovens are designed to be manually lit at each use. In this case, slowly turn the temperature knob while holding the flame to the pilot light valve. Close the oven door after the pilot light ignites.
If a single burner won't light or burn on your gas stove, it is likely for one of two main reasons: a lack of gas flow or a failure to ignite. If the burner lights but the flame is weak or yellow instead of blue, the gas tube or the burner ports may be partially blocked by food debris.
If your gas oven won't turn on but the stove still works, you're in the right place. Thankfully, most of the time this problem is caused by either a problem with your power, the gas, the gas igniter, the burners, or in rare cases the temperature control thermostat.
Turn the circuit breaker to the OFF position. Wait one minute, then turn the breaker back to the ON position to reset electronic oven controls on models so equipped. We suggest doing this even if the light or the clock on the Range or Wall Oven is working.
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.
Now, the average oven will still cook your food perfectly well without a working light bulb, but the lack of light will make your life that little bit harder. And hey, replacement oven bulbs aren't hard to come by, so why stay saddled with a broken one?
Burnt Out Bulb
One of the most common reasons for a non-functional oven light is a burnt-out bulb. Just like any other light bulb, the one inside your oven has a limited lifespan. Over time, it will eventually burn out and need to be replaced.
Gas oven burners ignite in approximately 30 to 45 seconds. The infrared broil burner will light within 45 seconds. If it takes much longer than this to ignite, the burner may be experiencing delayed ignition, refer to Gas Oven Delayed Ignition for more information.
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.
Potential Causes and Solutions
If your gas stove isn't lighting despite the clicking sound, it could be due to several factors. Common causes include gas leaks, faulty ignition systems, clogged burner ports, or issues with the gas supply.
Gas ovens cook food via a gas-fuelled burner. These appliances require a steady supply of natural gas to function - the gas is ignited by either an spark generator or a small pilot flame depending on the model.
Simple issues like grease or debris buildup or the age of the appliance may affect a gas oven's ability to ignite. If replacing the igniter isn't possible, you may need to consider purchasing a new 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.
Soak the sealed burner base in vinegar or warm water and use a stiff brush to remove any debris. Finally, clean any remaining debris out of the burner holes with a toothpick, sewing needle or compressed air. Reinstall the burner, cover and the grill, and try igniting the burner once more.
Locate the pilot light hole at the bottom of the oven. Use a long match or a lighter with a long nozzle to reach the pilot hole. Light the long match or lighter and hold the flame to the pilot hole. Wait for the oven to light.
Located on the oven control console is a feature called “Control Lock”. It is usually reset by holding down the button for three seconds and pushing it down again. Occasionally, resetting your gas oven's power can resolve the problem.
If the pilot light is extinguished, allow at least 5 minutes for accumulated gas to disperse after turning off the gas valve before attempting to relight the pilot. Follow manufacturer's specific instructions for relighting the pilot after the gas has dispersed.
Hold a long match or lighter near or in the pilot light hole to light it. Light a long match with your hand that isn't holding the oven knob, or use a lighter with a long tip (like a BBQ lighter). Slowly move the flame towards the pilot light hole until it lights.
The problem with your ignition could be as simple as the burner, valves and ignition being clogged with food and grease that may have built up over time. Before inspecting, make sure that the gas supply is switched off, then inspect the areas which could be impacting your ignition.
The number 1 failure preventing a gas oven from heating is a weak igniter. The igniter won't get hot enough to allow adequate current to flow to the safety valve so the valve won't open to let gas flow to the burner for ignition. That's why we recommend testing the oven igniter first.