Oven Igniter Not Working: 7 Easy Ways To Fix It Now

Is your oven igniter not working properly? This component plays a critical role in heating the oven. It provides the required spark for igniting the gas and turning it into fire. The igniter is not a weak part of a gas oven, yet it is prone to wear and tear over time.  

Generally, Gas ovens are known for their reliability and longer lifespan. But with frequent use, their components will start failing and malfunctioning. An igniter is no exception to this rule. However, any malfunction in this part should not be taken lightly.  

Without a functional igniter, your oven will lose its functionality. Moreover, it remains a hazard threatening your safety by releasing natural gas whenever you try to ignite the oven. 

In this blog post, we’ll help you understand the causes behind the igniter malfunction. Also, we’ll provide a reliable custom troubleshooting guide to overcome this annoying issue. So read on!

Why is Your Oven Igniter Not Working?

Igniter problems occur due to various reasons, including being jammed with debris. Also, this component won’t work when damaged or worn out. You can visually inspect the part to get an insight into its real issues.

Also, a defective igniter will not remain silent. You can notice unusual noise resembling clicking, hissing, or rattling coming from the oven. So, let’s get to work and talk about the reasons behind a faulty igniter:

1. An Unclean Igniter 

Regardless of the oven brand and model, igniters are always tucked away in the bottom of the oven cavity. This component is always found under the oven cover.

Despite this protection, this igniter is not completely isolated from food debris, particles, and grease. So, it is common to find clogged igniters not by a tiny bit of food but by a buildup that has not been cleaned for a long time. 

Bits of food clogged the igniter is a common complaint by various homeowners. These particles find their way to the ignition system through the ambient heat and air. 

2. Faulty Igniter Coil 

A gas oven igniter comes with a coil that provides a spark. This coil resembles a small transformer that handles the spark generation process. If this coil fails, there will be no spark. Subsequently, the oven won’t light or heat up. 

3. Stuck Igniter Switch

The ignition switch is responsible for initiating the ignition. It mainly sends electric current to the spark module terminal. This contributes to the proper generation of sparks. However, the switch may become stuck or defective with excess moisture in the oven. 

A stuck switch will cause an oven to make continuous clicks. It will also make an oven unable to ignite. However, a stuck switch will keep transmitting the current. This is why a fire hazard is always associated with a stuck switch. 

4. Problematic Control Board

An electronic control board is designed to be an oven’s brain. It is responsible for coordinating almost all its functions. If it fails partially or entirely, the igniter will be affected. This usually happens due to bad controls.

Control board problems are often associated with a failure in the power output. It is essential to check the control board for signs of damage or wear and tear. 

5. Loose Electrical Connections

The igniter does not contain any moving parts. However, it might have loose wires due to uncareful cleaning or replacement. The igniter won’t remain connected to the burner igniter control module with disconnected wires. This way, there would be no spark that can successfully ignite the gas burner. 

6. Check the Safety Valve

A safety gas or shut-off valve is an important safety feature that prevents gas flow in an emergency. However, you might accidentally leave the switch in the off position. This leads to the prevention of natural gas supply. So, there will be no chance for the igniter to function properly. 

How to Fix an Oven Igniter Not Working?

When your oven igniter goes bad, costly repairs will be the first to come to mind. However, fixing or replacing an igniter is not always a costly process. It all depends on the proper diagnosis of the cause. 

1. Clean the Igniter 

Visual inspection of an igniter is complex, as it is hidden under a metal cover. However, removing the bottom panel facilitates this task. Cleaning a hot surface igniter requires little work.

It only takes brushing away the gunk buildup to clean a dirty igniter. You can use a toothbrush for this matter. However, you’d better consider replacing the igniter if this does not remove the buildup. 

2. Replace the Igniter

In case of stubborn clogging in the igniter or the presence of a damaged coil, replacement is the better solution. A hot surface igniter is not expensive to replace. Some universal igniters accommodate various types of gas ovens. 

Generally, the replacement cost will be at most $40 if you opt for an interchangeable part and DIY the replacement. However, the cost may increase if you hire a professional service technician. You may end up paying $150 or $200 for professional help.

3. Replace the Defective Switch 

You can identify a damaged igniter switch by testing it with a multimeter. Using a multimeter for continuity detection on the switch would be best. If the device shows no continuity, the switch is failing and must be replaced. 

4. Fix the Control Panel 

An oven’s control panel is a sensitive component full of electrical connections and wires. So, it needs an experienced hand in connecting and disconnecting these wires. Moreover, you may be exposed to an electric shock if you do not know your way with these connections. If you do not have enough experience, it won’t hurt to consult with an expert.

However, if you know your ability to handle this task, start by locating the board. It is usually found underneath the oven’s top part. Then take the board out to thoroughly inspect it. Signs of wear and tear in this component are easy to spot. The bad news is a frayed or cracked electronic panel can’t be fixed. So, 

5. Fix the Loose Connection

 Whether you have a gas or an electric oven, you should always disconnect it from the gas or power source. This is a primary step in troubleshooting the igniter or any relevant oven component. Now, check and test all the relevant connections. If you find any loose electrical wires, try to tighten them if possible.

Also, reconnect any disconnected wires, including the power supply wire connection. If there are damaged wires, replace them. You should consult a reliable maintenance specialist for proper knowledge about electric wires. 

6. Turn On the Valves 

A manual or an automatic gas valve is vital in protecting you in case of leaks. However, the igniter will only operate in turn if this is switched on. So, switch on the valve to ensure gas naturally flows through the oven pipes. 

7. Use a Manual Oven 

Modern gas appliances have made cooking easier and faster. However, they can be a source of hassle with their sensitive parts. If you are tired of ignition circuit problems, use a manual oven.

Typically, manual ovens do not have ignitors or electronic boards at all. They do not heat up using an igniter, but you can use a lighter or a match to light the gas oven. All it takes is approaching a lit match near the pilot hole, and it will catch the spark. 

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