Symptoms
- Broiler element or flame doesn't activate
- Regular baking may still work fine
- Oven door needs to be cracked for broil on some models
- No flame heard or seen at the broiler burner
Likely causes
- CommonWeak or failing broil igniterLike the bake igniter, it must glow hot enough to open the safety valve.
- PossibleBroiler burner ports cloggedGrease splatter from broiling can clog the burner over time.
- PossibleBroiler not engaged correctlySome models need the door left ajar, or a specific setting selected, for broil to work.
- Less commonFaulty gas valve for the broiler circuitOccasionally the valve section serving the broiler fails independently.
What to do
- Check your owner's manual for the correct way to start broil on your model, including door position.
- Confirm regular baking works; if it does, the problem is likely isolated to the broiler igniter or burner.
- With the oven off and cool, locate the broiler burner (usually at the top of the oven or in a drawer below) and look for visible grease or debris on the ports.
- Clean the broiler burner and ports if there's visible buildup.
- Retry broil and time the igniter glow the same way as for the main oven igniter; longer than about 90 seconds without ignition means a weak igniter.
- If the igniter checks out, or you're unsure, have a technician inspect the broiler valve and burner.
Tools and parts
- Flashlight
- Soft brush
Oven broil igniterSearch: “oven broiler igniter replacement”
When to call a pro
If the broiler still won't ignite after cleaning, a technician can test the broil igniter and gas valve.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.