Why Won’t My Gas Range Ignite?

Understanding gas-range igniter problems, diagnosing them, and even performing some small repairs is relatively easy.

If you have a gas range, you know that they’re an excellent way to quickly cook food. However, problems often pop up that can stop your range from igniting. Sometimes, serious gas range repair might even be necessary.

Thankfully, understanding gas range igniter problems, diagnosing them, and even performing some small repairs is relatively easy.

Causes of Range Malfunction

There are a few different reasons your range won’t ignite. Some of the most common reasons include:

• Dirty igniter
• Fray in the gas line
• Malfunction in gas valve
• Defective thermostat
• Broken selector switch
• Malfunction in oven sensor

Many of these problems are relatively easy to fix: others are much more serious.

Dealing with Minor Problems

A dirty igniter will cause uneven range ignition and is the easiest of all gas range problems to fix: usually, all you have to do is scrub it with water and a cleaning solution to remove caked on dirt and serious stains.

A broken selector switch is usually the culprit when your range won’t even let out any gas. You should hear a tight “click” noise as it spins in place. These broken switches are usually pretty easy to swap out, unless there are serious mechanical errors on the range itself.

Dealing with Serious Issues

Other problems, such as a fray in the gas line, are more serious. If you ever smell gas when your range is off, immediately turn off your gas source to your oven. If you have a gas leak and your range does ignite, it may not turn out well.

Serious mechanical issues, such as a gas valve malfunction and faulty thermostats, are more manageable for amateur range repairmen. In fact, depending on the stove, thermostats are sometimes easy to replace.

If you have any more questions about your gas range or are experiencing problems a little over your head, please contact us as soon as possible.