Gas Stove Won't Light? Here Are 5 Common Causes & Fixes

There are few things more frustrating in the kitchen than turning the knob on your gas stove and hearing that repetitive click-click-click with no flame to show for it. A stove that won’t light is a common problem that can bring your dinner plans to a sudden halt. While your first instinct might be to worry about a major, expensive issue, the good news is that the cause is often a simple, fixable problem.

But how do you know if it’s something you can fix yourself or if it’s time to call in a professional? Understanding the common causes behind an ignition failure is the first step.

This guide will walk you through the five most common reasons a gas stove won't light, from simple cleaning issues to parts that may need professional repair.

A Critical Safety Warning First

Before you attempt any troubleshooting, the most important step is to check for the smell of gas. If you smell gas in your kitchen, do not proceed.

• Do not turn any lights or other electronics on or off.
• Do not try to light the burner.
• Immediately open windows to ventilate the area.
• If the smell is strong, leave your home.
• From a safe location, call your gas utility company to report a potential leak.

Safety is the number one priority. Never attempt to diagnose a problem if you suspect a gas leak.

Troubleshooting the 5 Common Causes

If you do not smell gas and feel safe proceeding, here are the most common culprits behind a burner that refuses to light.

1. A Clogged or Dirty Burner Head

This is, by far, the most common reason for a gas stove to stop igniting. Over time, the small ports (holes) on the burner head where the gas comes out can become clogged with grease, food debris, and cleaning residue. If these ports are blocked, the gas can’t flow out to meet the spark, and the burner won’t light.

• The Fix: This is a safe and easy DIY fix. Once the cooktop is completely cool, remove the burner grate and the burner cap. Lift the burner head off its base and use a stiff brush (like an old toothbrush) and a paperclip or a specialized tool to gently clean out each port. Make sure the burner head is completely dry before placing it back on its base.

2. Moisture Around the Igniter

Did the problem start right after a pot boiled over or after you cleaned the stovetop? If so, the cause is likely moisture. The spark igniter is an electrical component, and if it or the surrounding area is wet, the spark can be shorted out, preventing it from being strong enough to light the gas.

• The Fix: This is the easiest fix of all: just wait. Give the burner and igniter area plenty of time to air dry completely. You can also use a towel to gently soak up any visible water. Once it's bone dry, try lighting it again.

3. A Misaligned Burner Cap

After cleaning your stovetop, it's very easy to accidentally misplace the round burner cap. This cap needs to sit perfectly level on the burner head for the gas to spread evenly and for the spark to ignite it correctly. If the cap is crooked or off-center, the burner will often click but won't light.

• The Fix: Ensure the stovetop is cool. Lift the burner cap and carefully reseat it on the burner head. You should feel it lock into place. Make sure it is completely level and not rocking back and forth.

4. A Faulty or Worn-Out Igniter

The spark igniter (the small white ceramic part near the burner) is a wear-and-tear item. After thousands of clicks, it can eventually fail. You’ll know the igniter is the problem if you’ve cleaned the burner and checked the cap, but you still see a weak, yellow or orange spark instead of a bright bluish-white one, or if you hear a clicking sound but see no spark at all.

• The Fix: Replacing an igniter involves handling electrical wiring and is a job best left to a professional. A certified technician can quickly test the ignition system and replace the faulty part, ensuring it’s done safely and correctly.

5. A Problem with the Gas Supply or Control

If none of the burners are lighting, the problem could be with the main gas supply to the appliance or an internal component. It could be a closed valve behind the stove or a more complex issue like a faulty spark module or a problem with the gas regulator.

• The Fix: While you can check to make sure the gas valve behind your stove is in the "on" position, any other issue related to the gas supply or the internal control systems requires a professional. For your safety, never attempt to repair gas lines or complex electronic modules yourself.

When to Call for Professional Gas Stove Repair

While cleaning a burner is a simple task, most other repairs involve gas and electrical components that can be dangerous for a DIYer. It’s time to call a professional for gas stove repair when:

• You’ve cleaned the burner and the problem persists.
• You suspect the issue is a faulty igniter or spark module.
• Multiple burners are not working.
• You smell gas.

At A+ Appliance Repair and Maintenance, our certified and licensed technicians are experts in all major brands of gas stoves. We provide same-day service, upfront pricing, and a full warranty on all our work. Don't take risks with your family's safety. Contact us today to schedule a fast and reliable repair.