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A convection fan that will not spin is usually a failed fan motor, a seized blade, a door switch or a relay on the control board. Here is how to narrow it down.
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Why won't my gas burner light?
A gas burner that won't light usually has clogged burner ports, a misaligned burner cap, or a wet or dirty igniter. If the igniter does not click at all, the problem may be a failed spark module, knob switch, or power to the range.
Gas cooktops are simple machines. Gas flows to the burner, a spark lights it, and the cap spreads the flame evenly. When one of those three steps fails, you get no flame or an uneven one.
Safety first: what if you smell gas?
If you smell gas, do not try to light the burner again. Do not flip switches or use your phone indoors. Leave the house, then call PG&E or 911 from outside.
PG&E's gas safety page explains what to do step by step. A faint whiff right after you turn a knob is normal. A strong or lasting smell is not.
Burner won't light and no gas smell? Call us and a technician can test the igniter, switches, and spark module.
What are the most common causes?
Clogged burner ports
Boil-overs and grease can block the small holes around the burner. Gas can't reach the igniter, so it won't light, or it lights on one side only.
Burner cap out of place
If the cap is crooked after cleaning, the flame can't form properly. Lift it off and set it back so it sits flat and centered.
Wet or dirty igniter
The igniter is the small white ceramic tip next to the burner. Moisture or food on it weakens the spark. Let a wet cooktop dry for several hours before you try again.
Failed igniter, switch, or spark module
If one burner does not spark at all, its igniter may be cracked. If no burners spark, or one clicks nonstop, the spark module or a knob switch may have failed. These are common repairs.
Gas supply problems
If no burners light and you do not hear a hiss of gas, check that the shutoff valve behind the range is open. If other gas appliances also stopped working, call PG&E.
How do you clean a burner safely?
Turn off all knobs and let the cooktop cool. Lift off the grate and burner cap, clean the cap and burner head with warm soapy water, clear the ports with a straight pin, and dry everything fully before you put it back.
- Make sure everything is off and cool. Do not clean a burner that was just used.
- Remove the grate and cap. Set them in warm, soapy water.
- Clear the ports. Use a straight pin or paper clip. Do not use a toothpick, which can break off inside.
- Wipe the igniter gently. Use a dry cloth or a soft toothbrush.
- Dry everything. Put the cap back so it sits flat, then test the burner.
What does a yellow flame mean?
A healthy gas flame is mostly blue. A large, lazy yellow or orange flame can mean the burner is dirty or the air and gas mix is off. This can produce more carbon monoxide, so it should be checked.
The EPA advises having gas ranges and other fuel-burning appliances inspected to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning, and never using a gas oven to heat your home. The CDC lists the warning signs of carbon monoxide poisoning, which include headache, dizziness, and nausea. A CO alarm near your kitchen is a smart, low-cost safeguard.
When should you call a technician?
Call if the burner still won't light after cleaning, if the igniter clicks nonstop, if the flame stays yellow, or if the oven also won't light. Our stove and cooktop repair service fixes Wolf, Thermador, Viking, GE, Samsung, and other gas cooktops and ranges. If the oven side is the problem, see our oven repair service.
Wondering what the fix will cost? Our Mountain View appliance repair cost guide breaks down typical prices.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my gas burner click but not light?
Usually because the burner ports are clogged, the burner cap is out of place, or the igniter is wet or dirty. If none of those fix it, the igniter or spark module may have failed.
Why won't my stove stop clicking?
Water or food spilled into the switch area is the most common cause. Let the cooktop dry for a day. If the clicking keeps going, a knob switch or spark module may need replacing.
What should I do if I smell gas?
Do not light anything or use switches. Leave the house and call PG&E or 911 from outside. Do not go back in until it is safe.
