Why Is My Gas Stove Not Lighting? 11 Common Issues

It’s frustrating when you’re preparing a meal and your gas stove isn’t lighting properly. This is a common challenge that many homeowners face, and the solution could be a simple fix or require the help of a professional. If you have a problem with a gas stove not lighting, read on to learn how you can troubleshoot it.

1. Clogged Burner Holes

Over time, grease, food particles, and other debris can accumulate and block the tiny holes where the gas should flow through. This blockage can prevent the proper mixture of gas and air, resulting in a weak or nonexistent flame. 

Next Steps

To resolve this issue, carefully remove the burners and use a toothbrush or a soft brush to clean out any obstructions, making sure you are gentle and thorough.

2. Dirty Igniter Components

In addition to your burner holes, dirt, grease, and debris can also accumulate on your stove’s igniter (typically found at the base of the burner) and prevent it from sparking properly. 

Next Steps

This, too, can be fixed by gently cleaning it with a soft cloth or a small brush. After removing the build-up, make sure the igniter is dry before lighting the stove.

3. Moisture Issues

If your gas stove is clicking but just won’t light, the problem could be excessive moisture in the burner. Grease spills, boiling-over pots, or overly aggressive cleaning tactics could be the culprit.

Next Steps

Remove the burner cap to allow it to air out. If you can see any visible grease build-up, gently clean it up with a pipe cleaner and a mixture of dish soap and vinegar.

4. Igniter Malfunctions

For the igniter to create the spark needed to ignite the gas, it must be in the correct alignment. If it’s not properly aligned, the igniter will not generate the necessary spark and will require readjustment. 

Next Steps

If you suspect the igniter is the reason your stove is not lighting but find it’s clean and properly aligned, look for signs of damage and/or wear, such as cracks, discoloration, or a worn-down tip. Your stove’s igniter can wear out over time and require replacement. Look at your local hardware store or online to find a compatible igniter, and follow the manufacturer’s installation instructions when you replace it. 

5. Gas Supply Issues

A blocked or leaky gas line can prevent the gas valve from fully opening. Check to see if the gas valve is open and determine if anything is blocking it from opening. In some cases, the gas supply to your stove may have been turned off and simply needs to be turned back on.

Next Steps

If the issue persists, you may need to hire a local gas appliance professional to assess and repair your gas supply. A stove appliance repair ranges in cost between $100 and $500, depending on your stove model.

6. Faulty Safety Valve

Your stove’s safety valve controls the flow of gas to the burner and ensures safety by turning the gas off, if necessary. If your safety valve malfunctions, it may not allow the gas to reach the burner—preventing it from lighting. 

Next Steps

Fixing a faulty safety valve requires the help of a professional, as it involves working with the gas line. It’s best to contact a qualified gas appliance technician to inspect and replace your safety valve.

7. Electronic Ignition Problems

If your gas stove is not lighting, it could be worth it to check if a tripped circuit breaker is to blame. Sometimes, the electrical circuit that powers the stove’s igniter can overload and cause the circuit breaker to trip and cut the power supply to your stove. 

Next Steps

To fix this issue, locate your home’s electrical panel and see if any breakers are in the “off” or center positions. If you find a tripped circuit breaker, flip it back to the “on” position. This should restore power to your store and allow it to light up. 

8. Gas Leak or Pressure Issues

A gas leak can prevent gas from reaching your stove’s burner and prevent it from igniting. Similarly, if there are any problems with gas pressure, it can also affect the flow of gas to your stove’s burner. These issues require immediate attention as they pose a safety risk—especially if your gas stove was left on. 

Next Steps

If you suspect a gas leak, it’s critical that you turn off the gas supply and contact a professional immediately. A gas appliance technician can assess the situation, identify any leaks, and resolve pressure issues to ensure the safe operation of your gas stove.

9. Control Knob Malfunction

If your stove’s control knob is faulty or not working properly, it could prevent the gas from flowing to the burner and cause it to not ignite. To determine if this is the issue, check if the control knob is securely in place and turns smoothly. 

Next Steps

If it feels loose or doesn’t turn easily, you may need to replace it. Also, check that the control knob is set to the correct position for ignition. If the problem continues, you should consult a gas appliance professional for assistance.

10. Pilot Light Out

Some gas stoves have a pilot light as their primary method of lighting the stove. This is a tiny flame located under the stovetop that lights a burner when you’re ready to use it. If this flame goes out, your burner will not light. If you have a gas stove with a pilot light, you should learn how to re-light it if it ever goes out. Quality models of stoves feature protection around the pilot light, so it’s not common for it to go out; however, it could happen. 

Next Steps

Locate the pilot light valve using your stove’s owner manual. Ensuring the burners are all turned off, turn the gas knob powering the pilot light to the lowest setting or the one labeled “pilot.” The pilot light may automatically ignite, or you may need to use a long-necked lighter.

11. Vent System Problem

A range hood is an appliance that hangs above your stovetop. It acts as a vent system and helps get rid of the smoke, grease, and smells that build up while you’re cooking by filtering the air or pushing it out of your home. A downdraft range hood sits vertically behind the stove. Because of their proximity, the vents can create too much airflow, quickly extinguishing the flames of your gas stove shortly after you light them. 

Next Steps

Try decreasing the speed of your range hood or increasing your burner setting to create more balance between the ventilation and the size of the flame.

Jouviane Alexandre contributed to this piece.