Gas stoves can last a long time with adequate use and maintenance. However, there are some problems that pop up with these units. If you hear your gas range click when you try to ignite, but not turn on, follow our guidelines below.
Gently clean the ignitor contacts with sandpaper
If you hear clicking, but you don’t see a spark, disconnect the power to the range, then try to clean the ignitor contacts with sandpaper, or brush them lightly with a wire brush. Grime or debris stuck between the ignitor and the contact could be blocking gas flow to the igniter and preventing sparking activity.
Make sure the burner heads and caps are dry and correctly positioned
Sometimes, moisture gets trapped in the burner heads, especially after cleaning or after liquid spills onto the burners. After cleaning the burner heads and caps, shake out excess water and let them dry out thoroughly. Once they’re dry, return the burners to their correct positions. Make sure that each burner head is placed in the correct position on the cooktop. In addition, check to see that the burner cap matches its burner head, lies flat, and fits securely. Lastly, plug the unit back into the power, and try lighting the burners again. It may require roughly ten clicks to ignite the burner.
Look for dirt or moisture stuck in burner terminals
If the burner clicks continuously without igniting, this may be symptomatic of a gas flow issue. Buildup of grime or dirt between the ignitor and the contact may be obstructing gas flow and preventing sparking activity. If you hear clicking, but you don’t see a spark, turn off the power to the stove, then gently clean the ignitor contacts. Brush them lightly with sandpaper or a wire brush. Also, if you’ve recently cleaned the cooktop or the contacts, moisture remaining in the ignition or flame port holes could be interfering with sparking. Make sure burners and ports have time to dry out completely before you attempt ignition.
Look behind your unit for a loose connection or faulty switch
Loose wires could be at fault. If the wires connecting the igniter to the control module don’t make a solid connection, the burner won’t have sufficient power to ignite. Alternatively, the switch itself may be faulty and need replacement.
