Symptoms
- Grate rocks when you press on one corner
- Pots feel unstable while cooking
- Grate doesn't sit flush against the cooktop surface
- May be limited to one grate section
Likely causes
- CommonGrate not seated on its designed support pointsSmall variations in how a grate is set down can cause rocking.
- CommonDebris under the grate feetSpilled food or residue under a foot lifts that corner slightly.
- PossibleWarped grateHeat exposure over years can slightly warp cast iron or coated grates.
- Less commonMismatched or incorrect grate for that positionSwapped grates between burner positions on some models don't fit as well.
What to do
- Remove all grates and clean both the grates and the cooktop surface underneath, including corners where debris collects.
- Check for small rubber or metal feet on the grate bottoms and confirm they're all present and undamaged.
- Place each grate back in its original position if your range has grates sized differently per burner.
- Test for wobble by pressing gently on each corner.
- If a specific grate still wobbles after cleaning and correct placement, test it on a different burner position to see if the wobble follows the grate.
- If the grate itself is warped, replace it rather than trying to bend it flat.
Tools and parts
- Soft brush
- Dish soap
Gas range grateSearch: “gas range grate replacement”
When to call a pro
This is a simple DIY fix; a technician isn't usually needed for wobbly grates.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.