Gas surface burners are often slow to light or will not light at all because the burner or burners are wet or dirty, the electrode is not seated properly or the burner head and cap are not matched up properly.
Problem: It's clogged with food debris
Whether it's grease buildup or food crumbs, one of the most common causes for a gas burner that has trouble igniting is debris blocking gas flow to the igniter.
The most common reason a gas stove won't light is that the igniter is clogged with debris. Over time, dirt and dust can accumulate on the igniter and prevent it from sparking. If this is the case, you'll need to clean it off in order for the stove to work properly.
There are many possible reasons why the burner will not stay lit - the gas jet may be blocked, the valve may be set too low, the air flow may be restricted, there may be an issue with the pilot light, and so on.
Check for moisture: Moisture or spills around the burner switches or igniters can cause them to continuously spark. Ensure that the stove surface and knobs are dry and clean. Wipe away any spills or moisture using a cloth or paper towel.
If your cooking gets a bit messy sometimes, food debris can get lodged around the ignition system. This grime will throw the system off, causing the igniter clicking when it's off. This is a pretty simple fix. All you have to do is clean out the gunk.
Cause: Potential issues include a closed gas valve, a kink in the gas supply line, or even a leak. How to Troubleshoot and Fix: Ensure the gas supply valve is in the 'ON' position. Inspect the gas line for any visible kinks or damage.
If You Smell Gas but Your Stove Is Off, Leave and Call 911
But when you check your stove, you notice that all of the burners are off. In that case, you might have a gas leak. If so, leave immediately, and call 911 or your local gas company.
Common causes include problems with the pilot light, thermocouple, gas supply, obstructions, ignition system, gas pressure, and weather conditions. While some issues can be resolved with basic troubleshooting, others may require professional assistance.
While every stove is different, you can expect a gas stove to last about 10 to 15 years on average. According to some sources, gas stoves tend to last longer than their electric or induction counterparts, though these options do have their own benefits that might be worth the trade-off.
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.
Gas Range & Cooktop - Common Causes for Slow Ignition, No Ignition or Clicking on Surface Burners. Gas surface burners are often slow to light or will not light at all because the burner or burners are wet or dirty, the electrode is not seated properly or the burner head and cap are not matched up properly.
Most newer gas ranges and ovens don't have pilot lights. Instead, the gas is ignited by an electric ignition system.
If it is food debris, then you can clean any buildup with a metal pin or paper clip to clear it from the burner, igniter, or controls if they are dials. If none of those, you may need to replace a shorted valve switch harness or a faulty igniter. In both cases, you should be able to find physical evidence of failure.
If your gas burner isn't igniting, it could be because the gas line valve is in the closed position. This valve controls the gas flow to your stove; if it's closed, no gas will reach the burners. To double-check the gas line valve, try the following directions: Locate the gas valve, usually found behind the stove.
Signs that your gas stove is not working properly include smelling gas, the burners not lighting, strange noises, poor temperature control, or the flame color changing to red, yellow, or orange rather than blue.
Always turn off the gas supply at the cylinder valve when not in use, even for short periods. Avoid using electrical appliances or open flames near the cylinder when changing connections or checking for leaks.
Gas Leaks or Blockages: Gas leaks or gas line blockages can reduce flame intensity. Leaks decrease the amount of gas reaching the burner, while blockages restrict the gas flow, resulting in a weak or insufficient flame. Inadequate Air Supply: Gas burners need oxygen to fuel properly.
If your gas stove keeps clicking even after you turn the unit off, the first and most likely culprit is a clogged ignition system. Food scraps and even grease can sometimes wedge themselves in these systems and cause the stove to continuously click. Solution: Clean your ignition system!
The national average for gas stove repairs ranges from $150 to $400. Most homeowners pay $200 for replacing a gas stove igniter. Some repairs are cheaper or expensive, depending on the problem, part costs, and labor.
Soak a cotton swab in alcohol and clean the white porcelain igniter thoroughly. Also clean the metal burner cap with a cotton swab. Try the burner again. If you still hear clicking but don't see a spark then it's time to try option three, thorough cleaning of the metal burner head parts.