Symptoms
- Clicking or sparking sound at the pilot or burner assembly
- No flame appears despite the clicking
- May happen on a new unit or after gas service was interrupted
- No gas smell detected
Likely causes
- CommonGas supply valve not fully openA partially closed valve lets the igniter spark but starves the burner of gas.
- CommonAir trapped in the gas line after service work or a new installationNew lines or ones recently worked on need air purged before gas flows steadily.
- PossibleFaulty gas control valve not opening on ignition commandThe valve itself can fail electrically or mechanically.
- PossibleEmpty propane tank on propane systemsA tank running low or empty can cause intermittent or complete ignition failure.
What to do
- Confirm the gas shutoff valve is fully open, with the handle parallel to the pipe.
- For propane systems, check the tank gauge to rule out an empty or very low tank.
- Follow the printed lighting sequence exactly, allowing a bit more time for air to purge if gas was recently restored.
- Listen for whether the igniter clicks consistently versus intermittently, which can hint at an electrical versus gas supply issue.
- If gas is confirmed available and the sequence is followed correctly with still no ignition, the control valve may be at fault.
- Avoid repeated attempts beyond what the manual specifies, since excess unburned gas could accumulate.
Tools and parts
- Flashlight
When to call a pro
If the valve is open, the tank isn't empty, and it still won't ignite after following instructions, call a licensed plumber or gas technician to check the control valve.
Safety
Use caution
Stop and ventilate if you smell gas at any point, and don't keep attempting to ignite the unit repeatedly if it consistently fails; unburned gas can build up.