Gas burners are simple: gas flows through a valve to the burner, and a spark igniter lights it. When a burner will not light, the fault is in the spark, the gas path or the burner head itself.
If you ever smell gas, do not try to light the burner. Open windows, leave the area and contact your gas utility first.
Clicking but no flame
- Wet or dirty igniter. After a boil-over or cleaning, moisture or grease on the igniter stops the spark reaching the gas. Let the cooktop dry completely.
- Burner cap out of place. The cap has to sit flat and centred on the base for the gas ports to line up with the spark.
- Clogged burner ports. Food debris blocks the small holes around the burner head. Clean them with a soft brush or a straightened paper clip, never anything that enlarges the holes.
- Weak or cracked igniter. An igniter that sparks weakly, or sparks on the wrong side, needs replacing.
No clicking at all
- Spark module. If none of the burners click, the spark module or its power supply has failed.
- Switch under the knob. Each burner has a spark switch on the valve. A failed switch means that burner never calls for a spark.
- Wiring. A loose igniter wire after a cleaning or a repair is common.
Lights, then goes out, or keeps clicking
- A burner that lights and then keeps clicking has moisture in the igniter, a misaligned cap or a cracked igniter.
- A flame that lifts off the burner or burns yellow means the air and gas mix is wrong, usually clogged ports or a regulator problem, and should be corrected.
Safety
Never bypass an igniter with a match on a burner that will not light; if the valve is faulty, gas can accumulate. If you smell gas, stop, ventilate and contact your gas utility or emergency services before calling us.
When to call a technician
Call when the burner is clean and dry and still will not light, when no burner clicks, or when the flame is yellow or lifting. Igniters, spark modules and valves are routine repairs on gas stoves, cooktops and ranges.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the questions we hear most about this problem.
Why does only one burner not light?
The problem is local to that burner: its igniter, cap, ports or spark switch. If none light, suspect the spark module.
Can I light the burner with a match?
Only if the gas valve and burner are known to be working and only as a short-term measure. If gas does not light within a few seconds, turn it off and ventilate.
How much does an igniter repair cost?
Igniters, switches and spark modules are modest repairs. Our $75 diagnostic fee covers the inspection and diagnosis and is applied toward the approved repair.
Related services
Need a hand with it? Alliance Appliance Services diagnoses first and explains the repair before any work starts. Call (571) 303-8548 or request a repair online. We serve Springfield, Alexandria, Fairfax, Arlington and the surrounding Northern Virginia communities.