Symptoms
- All burners produce smaller or weaker flames than normal
- Flames may still be blue, just low output
- Cooking takes noticeably longer than usual
- Problem affects the oven too in some cases
Likely causes
- CommonGas supply valve behind the range not fully openIf the range was recently serviced or moved, the dedicated valve may be partly closed.
- PossibleLow household gas pressureRare, but supply-side pressure issues can affect the whole house.
- PossibleRegulator issue on the range itselfSome ranges have a pressure regulator that can fail or need adjustment.
- CommonPropane tank running low (for propane setups)A nearly empty propane tank commonly causes weak flames across all burners.
What to do
- If you use propane, check the tank level first, since a low tank is the most common cause of universally weak flames.
- Check other gas appliances in the home, like a water heater or furnace, to see if they're also affected, which would suggest a house-wide supply issue.
- If accessible and you know how, verify the gas shutoff valve behind the range is fully open (only if you're comfortable doing so safely).
- Note whether the oven is also weaker than normal, which helps a technician pinpoint whether it's a shared supply issue.
- Avoid trying to adjust any regulator yourself.
- If other appliances are unaffected and the valve is open, have a technician check the range's own regulator and connections.
When to call a pro
If a low propane tank or a closed valve isn't the cause, call a technician or your gas utility to check supply pressure and the range's regulator.
Safety
Generally low risk
Generally low risk for a careful person. Stop if anything looks different from what this guide describes.