Symptoms
- Clicking sound but no flame
- Gas smell but no ignition
- Flame lights on some burners but not others
- Burner lit fine yesterday, nothing today
Likely causes
- CommonFood debris or spills clogging the burner portsBoil-overs and grease dry into the small holes the flame comes out of.
- CommonWet igniter or burner cap after cleaningWater or cleaning spray on the igniter prevents it from sparking.
- PossibleIgniter electrode misaligned or dirtyThe white ceramic igniter needs to be close to the burner and clean to spark reliably.
- PossibleBurner cap seated incorrectlyIf the cap is off-center the gas ports and igniter don't line up.
- Less commonFaulty igniter or spark moduleThe igniter itself can wear out over years of use.
What to do
- Turn the knob off and let the range sit for a minute so any built-up gas clears before trying again.
- Remove the burner cap and grate and check the small ports around the burner head for clogs.
- Clear clogged ports gently with a toothpick, sewing needle, or thin wire; avoid widening the holes.
- Wipe the burner head and the small ceramic igniter dry with a clean, dry cloth.
- Make sure the burner cap is seated flat and centered, since a tilted cap misaligns the flame ports.
- Turn the knob to light and listen for a steady clicking; if it clicks but doesn't light, hold at light for a few extra seconds.
- If one burner still won't light while others work, swap its cap and head with a working burner to see if the problem follows the part.
Tools and parts
- Toothpick or thin wire
- Dry cloth
- Soft brush
Gas range burner capSearch: “gas range burner cap replacement”
Igniter/spark electrodeSearch: “gas range igniter replacement”
When to call a pro
If the igniter doesn't click at all, or the burner still won't light after cleaning, call an appliance repair technician to test the igniter and spark module.
Safety
Use caution
Wait for gas smell to clear before attempting to relight, and never use an open flame like a lighter to check for gas.