Gas cook top igniter repair FAQs:

This article gives answers to frequently-asked questions about the the cause, diagnosis, and cure of cooktop or gas range igniter problems that cause continuous clicking, or failure to ignite gas burners or a gas oven properly.

This article series explains how to fix clicking igniters on a gas cooktop. Some of these conditions are dangerous. The gas igniter troubles discussed here apply to some models of gas appliances including gas stoves, gas ovens, and gas cooktops where an automatic or pilot less gas ignition system is used.

Gas Range Top Igniter Repair FAQs

These questions & answers about troubleshooting and fixing gas burner igniters such as used on gas ranges and cooktops were posted originally at GAS COOKTOP or STOVE IGNITER REPAIR - you will enjoy reading the steps in diagnosis and repair given there.

Photo: the gas igniter on a Bosch cooktop, with the burner cap removed to illustrate the spark that arcs between the igniter contact and the grounded body of the burner base.

[Click to enlarge any image]

Watch out: if you smell gas and/or suspect there are gas leaks do not keep trying to ignite the burner(s) as you could risk a gas explosion.

See GAS LEAK DETECTION, LP / NG

On 2020-04-17 - by (mod) - gas igniter clicking stopped: check wire connectors & connection points

Thanks that's very helpful information.

On ignition wire connections at the control module

For other readers: Once-burned, twice shy, I take care to label every wire before disconnecting them; often I'll also take a photo, but of course if all the wires look identical then that won't help at re-connect time so labels are in order.

I've had a book of peel-and-stick electrical wire labels using letters and numbers - for 40 years now; you stick the individual "A" by the terminal and wrap the longer "AAAA" strip around the wire.

Notes on Bad Electrical Connections at Spade Connectors

I will often use a pair of pliers to pinch the female end of the spade connector to make for a snug connection and better electrical contact.

More-subtle: some spade connectors can suffer a poor electrical connection at the end that crimps onto the wire itself. I've also on occasion found broken copper strands right where the wire enters the crimp fitting on the connector. I cut off the old connector and strip back the wire and crimp on a new connector.

On 2020-04-17 by Karl - don't think the spark control module (P/N 164D6176P001) [was the problem]

I don't think the spark control module (P/N 164D6176P001) [was the problem]. I had previously swapped the original with a new one during extended troubleshooting. All grounds (and all circuits as well) had been extensively checked for continuity and resistance during troubleshooting--I'm certain they weren't an issue.

Interestingly, I can not rule out a loose spade connector. Although I had previously checked them for cleanliness and good contact, the control module is in an awkward location. Igniter wire spades may have become loosened at the control module through repeated disconnects and reconnects.

I noticed that the two might not have been making the contact I would have preferred and tightened them up as I made the last swap at the controller so cannot rule that out as a factor.

It should be noted that the wiring schematic differs from the wiring diagram which in turn differs from the way the igniters were finally and successfully connected. Furthermore, the only available wiring diagrams were fuzzy and nearly illegible. While understandable in retrospect, it is sloppy practice and added to the confusion when trying to figure out what was going on.

Bottom line: make careful note of the order in which the spark igniter wires attach to the spark/sense electrodes at the spark control module before you start disassembly and double-check those space connectors at the control module!

Thanks again for your interest and informed responses.

On 2020-04-17 - by (mod) - bad igniter control module or bad connector

Thanks so much for the follow-up, Karl as that will help other readers.

When leaving the continuously-sparking igniters, their wires, burner controls, and all other parts in place and only changing the wires at the igniter control module, I am left suspecting

1. a corroded connector on the control-module end of the igniter system
or

2. a defective control module itself (or its ground)

As you've already tried swapping wires around the connectors ought not be failing to connect and I don't suspect the wires nor igniters.

I infer that the problem is the igniter module itself. Do you agree?

On 2020-04-16 by Karl - SOLVED! I switched the igniter wires of the two continuously sparking burners at the spark control module.

Mod -

SOLVED! I switched the igniter wires of the two continuously sparking burners at the spark control module. Makes no sense, but there it is.

Karl

On 2020-04-13 - by (mod) -

Good news Karl, and thank you for the comment as it will certainly help other readers remember to look for a burner cap that's even a little bit askew when there's an igniter problem.

On 2020-04-13 by Anonymous

OMG, Thank you! One of my igniters was clicking, but not lighting right away, then it would lite like a blast. The burner cap looked like it was laying correctly, but when I rotated it I found it was not. Problem solved.

On 2020-04-12 - by (mod) -

Thanks for the follow-up; ultimately we'll have exhausted the experiments and may be forced to start the usual technician's repair approach: replace parts.

On 2020-04-12 by Karl - 2 more steps in tracking down the cause of continuous igniter clicking

Mod,
Thanks for your response. I have already switched igniter wires for a single clicking burner at the spark control module with no joy (your recommendation #2).

Although I have switched igniters and wires out between a single working burner and a still clicking burner, I have not switched the two still sparking burner with two not still sparking ones.

Karl

On 2020-04-10 - by (mod) -

Karl

You've made a lot of sensible tests, and I agree that tracking down non-stop clicking gas burner igniters.

Let's try this:

1. Switch igniters and wires out between the burners that won't stop clicking and two that do stop clicking when they should.

If that makes no difference

2. Switch the position on the control module between wire to an igniter that works properly and one that doesn't.

Let me know the results.

On 2020-04-10 by Karl - list of steps in repairing continuous stove igniter clicking

Hi, I could use some help here. The Center and Right Front burners on my DCS RGS-305SS range won’t stop clicking when lit—the other three function flawlessly. I have executed the above recommended fixes and checks (and then some!) without success.

There appears to be a failure of the feedback circuit from the two affected burners to the spark control module. I have done extensive cleaning and testing per the below detail without success. Any recommendations?

Gory detail:

• Stove has been disassembled and detail cleaned down to the burner box level.

• Burner caps and rings are clean, rust free, and properly installed.

• Simmer rings were degreased and media blasted clean with baking soda then wire brushed bright by hand in the area around the spark igniter. Simmer ring orifices were reamed to specification. Simmer flames are blue and consistent around all burners.

• Jet holders were removed, cleaned and inspected. Four of five main jet holders were replaced with new (due to corrosion/degradation).

• Jets (both burner and simmer) were removed, cleaned, inspected, checked for size, and reamed to specification.

• Gas lines (main and simmer) were removed, cleaned and inspected. Two kinked simmer lines were replaced.

• Igniters were removed, cleaned and inspected. Sparks to all burners are within the simmer flame and strong. Igniters on clicking burners were exchanged both with known good used igniters and new igniters with no improvement.

• Igniter wires were continuity checked good and checked to ground. Connectors on two affected wires were crimped slightly to improve connection. Igniter wires on clicking burners were exchanged with wires from known good burners with no improvement.

• All grounds were tested good with a VOM. Testing included simmer ring to various points around the chassis to ensure continuity with ignition module ground.

• Ignition switches have been cleaned and electrically tested satisfactory (on/off) with a VOM. Switches on center and right front have been both exchanged with switches on working burners and replaced with new switches with no improvement.

• Wiring to ignition switches was continuity checked good both from transformer to switch and from switch to spark igniter module. Wires were also checked from switch to ground (open = good). Wires were swapped between a working burner switch and a clicking burner switch with no improvement.

 

On 2020-03-12 - by (mod) - wet or shorted wire at a burner control knob

Bob
I suspect a wet or shorted wire at a burner control knob
or
less likely, a failed igniter control module.

Has anything wet spilled into the stovetop recently?

On 2020-03-12 by bob

gas top will not stop clicking with all the burners turned off

On 2020-03-02 by (mod): follow the igniter wires to the module

Thomas: you need to follow the igniter wires to the ingniter module.

If cleaning up connections or replacing igniters doesn't work you may need to replace the control module or the switch in the burner control.

On 2020-03-02 by Anonymous - KitchenAid gas cooktop Model # KGCT365X assembly and repair

Here is the third illustration for your KitchenAid gas cooktop Model # KGCT365X

On 2020-03-02 by Anonymous - KitchenAid cooktop parts guide

Here is another parts explosion for your cooktop

On 2020-03-02 by (mod) - parts explosions and guides for KitchenAid cooktops

I will post a several KitchenAid cooktop burner, grate, gas valve and control parts explosions adapted from old manuals at sears parts.com

On 2020-03-02 by Thomas Graham

We have a KitchenAid gas cooktop. Model # KGCT365X. The igniter comes on randomly, even when it is not being used. I have the manuals, they are of no use. We need a parts blow up, or a detailed description of how to dismantle, and diagnose, the repair. Thank you.

On 2020-02-24 - by (mod) - wet wires caused igniter failure - fixed using a hair dryer

Anon

Thank you for posting your successful experience drying off the igniter wires. It's a good case proving that a wet wire that is shorting out may be a bit subtle. Sometimes giving time for wires to dry or mopping up a spill and then drying out the appliance diagnoses and fixes the issue. .

On 2020-02-24 by Anonymous

Pot of water boiled over; next time I tried to ignite burner, I had no flame. After reading the above and checking for issues above the stove top housing,

I opened the stove top but the igniter wire seemed dry. I used a hair dryer on low and blew them off anyway. This worked.

On 2020-02-24 - by (mod) - SMEG PGA96 gas cooktop Hob igniter repair

GAS COOKTOP or STOVE IGNITER REPAIR and the other articles in this series give a number of diagnostic steps that you'll want to look at.

Most common for the problem you describe would be debris or crud on the igniter or on the edge of the burner to which the igniter is sending a spark.

Also check your wiring connections and the condition of the wire itself. That is the wire between the igniter in the control unit.

If you don't have it here is an installation, use, and troubleshooting manual

• SMEG PGA96 GAS COOKTOP INSTALLATION & REPAIR MANUAL [PDF] Smeg Australia Pty Ltd, ABN 33 146 901 082, Head Office 2 - 8 Baker St, Banksmeadow, NSW 2019 Australia, Fax +61 2 8667 4800 Email: info@smeg.com.au retrieved 2020/05/25 original source: https://www.smeg.com.au/smeg_au/docs/user_manuals/PGA96.pdf

On 2020-02-23 by PAUL

We have a SMEG PGA96 gas cooktop - we have a problem where the igniter continues to flicker when power is turned on at power source

On 2020-01-18 - by (mod) - cause of broken stove igniter

Wow - not in any way that occurs to me off-hand. I suppose there could be some subtle additional event associated with turning the gas off and back on - but not the event itself.

On 2020-01-17 by Viola

Can turning off the gas supply and then turning it back on in a short period of time cause the stove igniter to break?

On 2020-01-17 by (mod) - tips for removing a stuck- gas burner

Sometimes food spills over the life of a range top combined with heat can form a virtual glue that sticks that burner assembly to the steel base of the range top. I would try a little sqiirt of liquid wrench around the edge of the burner assembly and then give it 10 minutes to half an hour to soak in

I might then try prying very gently with, I hate to say this, but maybe a blunt table knife or something that's least likely to scratch or chip either surface. Work gently.

On 2020-01-15 by (mod) - gas cook stove oven glow plug on but burner wont ignite

Lewis

I would go ahead and remove the recalcitrant retaining nuts; always it's best to use minimum force, I agree. But if the appliance must be opened for repair you're stuck with having to proceed.

If you can get a bite on the retaining nut with a nut driver use that; in a pinch I've used larger tools and for rounded or corroded fittings even a small Vise grip pliers.

Attach a photo if you can so that I can see the exact details of your cooktop situation and which retaining nuts are giving trouble.

On the cooktop described here I found that dissimilar metals often led to corrosion and difficulty in later dis-assembly of parts.

I also found it easy to strip the brass nuts that secure the burner assembly in place - those we simply replaced.

On 2020-01-17 by Lewis

Yes, it appears to be just stuck together. I have never been inside the cooktop, so I don't know how strong things are inside, and am afraid to pull too hard. Can you shed any light on that? Ideas to get them to separate?

On 2020-01-15 by (mod) -

Lleon

Check first that you have fuel - gas supply to your stove.

Our igniter disgnostics at GAS COOKTOP or STOVE IGNITER REPAIR are better than an off-the-cuff response. Please take a look and then don't hesitate to as specific follow-up questions and I'll be glad to reply.

On 2020-01-15 y lleon tidwell

gas cook stove oven glow plug on but burner wont ignite

On 2020-01-13 by (mod) - stove clicks, power goes out, power returns, beeping sound

Ernest this isn't a problem that I fully understand but it sounds as if there is a defective igniter control or a short in the igniter or igniter wiring.

On 2020-01-13 y Ernest Brown

I turn the stove on and as it clicks the power goes out then back on.and there is a beeping sound

On 2020-01-08 by (mod) - oven igniter fixed by bending electrode

Fantastic, Dan, that detail will certainly help other readers.

If you can post a photo of the switch and igniter (one photo per comment, multiple comments fine) that would be helpful.

Take care when bending an igniter, possibly fixing a problem by closing the gap between igniter wire and nearby burner surface - if there's a ceramic insulator you need to be careful not to crack or break it.

On 2020-01-07 by Dan - So I took the switch apart, bent an electrode

It was my switch not working, when I connected the wire for the oven light to the igniter, the igniter worked. So I took the switch apart, bent an electrode, put it back together and all is well.

On 2019-11-29 by (mod) - electrical wiring to a gas cooktop

Peter

I'm worried if you have unsafe electrical wiring in the form of a loose or improper connection and at least one of those tickets. You'll be a lot safer to have an electrician sort out that wiring. Most likely will end up connecting your new ranged up to working circuit and the other would simply be removed or Switched Off.

On 2019-11-28 by Peter Sullivan

Under our gas cooktop there are 2 four outlet electric boxes. Constant clicking on 4 of our 6 burners led us to but a new cooktop. Older cooktop had 3 sections with 3 separate gas lines and 3 electric plugs... 2 electric plugs went into one box and 1 plug into the other box.

Our new cooktop has 1 gas connection and 1 plug. When turned on 1 electric box caused continued clicking and switching to the other box was fine. We have a warmer that is plugged into the box that causes clicking and I don't know if it is safe to use the warmer

On 2019-11-01 by (mod) - how long to wait for stovetop spills to dry out when igniters stop working

Jash

You can probably wait longer. In fact depending on the volume of water that you spilled it could be a day or more. I suspect that water has entered the stove top interior and is shorting a wire.

Continuing

It may be that if you can manually light a couple of burners and let them run for a bit you will heat up the stove top of that might speed the dry out

On 2019-10-31 by Jash

I spilled some water accidentally and since then my ignitor has been sparking . I switched off the supply and let it dry . However its been almost 2 hrs I cleaned and let it dry, as soon as i switch on the power supply the clicking has not stopped. Should I wait longer or call somone to have a check?

On 2019-09-09 by (mod) - signs of wet igniter wires

Aaron

The most likely cause of the problem you described are either shorted igniter wires or wires that are lying in wet from a spill through the stove top.

On 2019-09-08 by Aaron

I have an older Viking 6 burners gas range. Normally each burner sparks and ignites on its own. However recently when I turn one burner on it sparks and ignites just fine but a second burner starts to spark. Even when I then turn the knob for that second burner and it ignites, the sparking continues until I turn off the first burner. This situation is consistent with 2 pairs of burners. Thanks in advance for any advice.

On 2017-11-09 by # 5 burner - burner takes longer to light

gas range ,5 burners / the front right burner [ largest one ] takes a long time to light , compared to the other 4, reason FOR IT ?

On 2018-12-09 by (mod) - bad igniter wire or module or wet wires

You might have bad wires or the module itself may be bad

On 2018-12-07 by Charvina Kayasth

So my ignitor for the stove wont stop .. even if it is clean and i tried to remove moisture everything pls help

On 2018-11-24 by (mod) - Viking VGSC306-4BSS 4-burner 30" range/oven combo igniter trouble

John,

I'm only speculating but it occurs to me that if you have an igniter module that is failing the temperature could be pushing it over the edge.

I don't think there's a relationship between gas flow or pressure and whether or not the igniter tries to make an ignition spark.

If you don't already have the manual for your Viking gas range you can download a PDF copy free

at GAS COOKTOP RANGE & OVEN REPAIR & MANUALS

Photo: a Viking VGSC306-4BSS 4-burner 30" range/oven combo discussed with reader John.

On 2018-11-24 by John C

I have a Viking VGSC306-4BSS 4-burner 30" range/oven combo [see photo above].

When the oven is off, each top burner can be started (good spark, rapid ignition) and operated independently, and they do not cut out.

However, when the oven is operating and is heated up (> 400 degrees?)

No top burner that is not *already* burning can be turned on (i.e. no spark, no click).

Turning off the oven and waiting a while fixes this symptom. In what ways could the state of the oven affect stovetop spark control logic?

Could it be insufficient gas pressure? I believe the supply line is 1/2". Any ideas?

On 2018-10-25 by (mod) - all igniters click until one burner lights

Bo

Many cooktops are wired so that all of the igniters click until the turned-on burner ignites - so that part of the issue can be normal.

So is your burner igniting?

Does the clicking continue after the burner ignites?

If so the problem is probably one of those described on the page GAS COOKTOP or STOVE IGNITER REPAIR, such as dirt on the igniter or burner edge preventing the sensor from responding to the flame.

On 2018-10-25 by bogie - no matter which burner I turn on the same burner ignitor clicks

no matter which burner I turn on the same burner ignitor clicks

On 2018-07-03 by (mod) - wet igniter wire problem repair

Sometimes if during cleaning we get wiring and/or igniters wet or wet the control knob or even the control module (unlikley) that can happen.

Usually if you dry off everything you can reach, then be sure that every burner cap is precisely in place, and wait, you'll be ok. Wait an hour or so for things to dry further and let me know if that works for you.

On 2018-07-03 by Barbara Mack - all 5 igniters are sparking

during cleaning my gas stove top, the electric starters - all 5 of them - started sparking.

On 2018-06-20 by (mod) - stovetop spill wets igniter wires

normally yes but if you spilled a lot of water and it's inside of the stove top soaking the wires it may take some time

On 2018-06-17 by Michael

I spilled water on my gas range w/ pilotless spark plugs. The plugs don't click and ignite stove. Will they dry out and function?

On 2018-05-20 by (mod) - how to open KitcheAid glass stovetop to repair igniter

Sue

Look at the stove top from underneath. There are probably hold down clamps that need to be loosened and removed.

And if the glass top was glued to the countertop you'll need to cut that with a utility knife/

Unfortunately if that area is blocked by built-in oven that will have to come out first.

Be careful. If you're not trained to do work on gas appliances and you make a mistake you could burn down the house or blow it up.

On 2018-05-19 by Sue

Can't open my Kitchen Aid gas glass stovetop to repair the igniter

On 2018-01-31 by (mod) - gas explosion hazard if stove burner igniter is broken

certainly, if someone turns on the burner for which the igniter is broken, that can be a dangerous condition that could even lead to an explosion

On 2018-01-29 by Debbie

Can there be a gas leak if one of the starters breaks off on the stove

On 2018-01-26 by (mod) - oven igniter separate wire & parts from burner igniters

Conf

Usually the oven burner is by separate control from the stovetop burners, perhaps a pilot? I am flying too blind here to be able to offer much diagnosis.

On 2018-01-26 by Confused

Ge gas stove top burners work !! Oven won't heat

Top burners working oven not starting can't smell gas ? is there more than one initer ?

On 2018-01-25 by (mod) - one stovetop burner won't ignite

Vic

CHeck for a bad switch at that burner, or a bad wire between burner control and igniter module

On 2018-01-25 by vic san

i have a Bosch Duel fuel stove. Model HDS752U/03

when i turn on one of the top burners the igniter does not activate , i.e. there is no spark anywhere.

when i turn on any other burner all four igniters activate.

I know that this stove all four igniters are suppose toactivate when any burner is turned on.
I d'ont know if i should replace the ignitor module or the problem would be just in the dial switch of that one burner.

how can i test that?

thanks

On 2017-11-30 by (mod) - Maytag burner clicks when burner control is OFF

I apologize that this probably sounds too basic but I would start by cleaning the edge of the burner near the ignitor carefully.

The problem may be the burner control switch (at the burner knob) itself.

But also I would inspect the ceramic around the igniter for cracks which might represent a short. I don't see anything there I would open the stove top and follow the wiring to see if one of the wires to the igniter is damaged or shorting possibly in response to temperature.

You could then try replacing the igniter in this wire between the igniter and the control module. That doesn't fix the trouble I'm afraid the problem is probably right in the control module itself.

On 2017-11-30 by Anonymous

We have a Maytag gas oven with four gas burners on top. When the oven is on at 400 degrees the front left burner on top starts clicking even though the burner is off. Once it cools down it stops clicking. What do you suggest we do?

On 2017-11-07 by (mod) - Ikea gas hob top has to be pressed to create spark - replace the switch?

Simon,

I don't understand what gas Appliance you have installed, but it's possible that you're describing a piezoelectric ignition system in which pushing the button is actually what is creating the electrical current or spark at your igniter. And that case you would not normally find voltage on those wires except at the moment that the switch is depressed

On 2017-11-06 by Simon m

I have an IKEA gas hob top witha separate ignition switch that has to be pressed down to create the spark.

The switch is missing and i thought I could just order a new switch ? but the two wires that are there show no voltage and are open circuit....should they show a voltage ? Or is this not simply a question of replacing the switch?

On 2017-10-17 by (mod) - common igniter module may spark all igniters at once

David


Many stovetops share a common igniter module and spark all igniters at once - lighting just the burner whose gas valve is open.

But if you suspect a lightning strike it's possible that a power surge damaged the igniter module.

I also check for wires shorted together or sitting in wet material under the stovetop.

The danger is cross-ignition: a bad igniter isn't working and the burner ignites when the bolus of gas accumulated in the stovetop is so big that it's lit from a nearby igniter- risking blowing a pot off the stove or burning your eyebrows.

On 2017-10-14 by David Thomason

I haven't seen this problem covered yet. The igniter for the left front burner does not work, but the igniter for the right front burner triggers the igniter on the left front burner, as well as the right front burner.

This started happening soon after a lightening strike outside that did some damage to my stereo. Is there any other remedy for this than replacing the control module? Is it dangerous if we don't fix it? After all, you can still light the burner, if you know the trick.

 

On 2017-10-14 by (mod) - right hand igniter lights left hand gas burner

David

Many stovetops share a common igniter module and spark all igniters at once - lighting just the burner whose gas valve is open.

But if you suspect a lightning strike it's possible that a power surge damaged the igniter module.

I also check for wires shorted together or sitting in wet material under the stovetop.

I would also check that nobody has swapped wire connections to igniters - that would make control X igniter burner Y

Watch out: The danger is cross-ignition: a bad igniter isn't working and the burner ignites when the bolus of gas accumulated in the stovetop is so big that it's lit from a nearby igniter- risking blowing a pot off the stove or burning your eyebrows.

On 2017-10-14 by David Thomason

I haven't seen this problem covered yet. The igniter for the left front burner does not work, but the igniter for the right front burner triggers the igniter on the left front burner, as well as the right front burner. This started happening soon after a lightening strike outside that did some damage to my stereo.

Is there any other remedy for this than replacing the control module? Is it dangerous if we don't fix it? After all, you can still light the burner, if you know the trick.

On 2017-10-03 by Jean

We had a power outage in town last night and today the only way we can use our stove burners is to light them manually. It is a 2000 Maytag model pgr4410awd . Is there a way to reset the ignitor?

On 2017-09-01 by (mod) - what is the control module?

Sch

That sounds correct. Typically the controller is a solid block that contains electronic circuitry, connector numbers and identification markings, and wires to power and to the burners.

On 2017-08-30 by schentow

igniter spark control module is the part with 4 -8 connectors to it or the small piece which attaches to the starter switch?

On 2017-08-30 by Fatima khalil

What do i do if one of the burners piezo ignition starts to make a clicking sound

On 2017-07-24 by (mod) - stovetop burners spark but won't ignite

Are you saying that when you turn on a stove top gas burner there is absolutely no gas flow to any of the burners?

If so that's a gas fuel supply problem - is the gas turned OFF at the supply?

On 2017-07-23 by Anonymous

I have been away for two weeks and want to use my gas stove bug it will not ignite. The oven and grill do, but the burners on top will not ignite.

The igniters are striking. I have ever tried a hand ignitor. How do I get the gas back up yo the burnerd

On 2017-04-21 by (mod) - ok to unplug a gas stove?

Just plugging and unplugging a stove ought not cause damage: does the stove have electrical power at all?

On 2017-04-20 by Stephanie

I unplugged my gas stove to clean behind it then when I plugged it back in the control don't work to ignite I have to use a match

On 2017-04-16 by (mod) - the Bosch igniter or a supporting collar for it is broken

Fred,

I suspect that the igniter or a supporting collar for it is broken; most-likely sister needs to pull out the Bosch gas stovetop installation and users' guide, and look near the back pages at part numbers, then give Bosch or a local Bosch supplier a call to obtain a replacement igniter.

Then it might be necessary to open the stovetop to fish out the dead igniter, run the wire up through the opening in the stovetop near the burner, then connect the wire to the new igniter and insert it in place. Exact procedures may differ depending on the stovetop model.

On 2017-04-16 by Fred

My sister has a Bosch gas stovetop. The center burner igniter has drppoed down inside. How to fix?

On 2017-04-15 by (mod) - continuous cooktop igniter clicking

Bill

Try the steps suggested at GAS IGNITER CLICKING DIAGNOSIS for detailed diagnosis and repair suggestions for clicky gas burner igniters - and let me know what questions remain

On 2017-04-15 by bill

my gas cooktop continually clicks how do I repair it

On 2017-04-10 by (mod) - continuous igniter clicking - bad module?

Possibly, yes.

On 2017-04-10 by Bruce

Will a bad module allow a constant clicking of the igniters even though they all seem to work properly by lighting the gas burners.

I did have a spark when I took it apart in the back I think i had a tool laying close to an igniter-could that have been the module shorting out? but why the constant clicking?

On 2017-03-29 by (mod) - all igniters started clicking after stove cleaning - check for wet igniter wire

Most likely there's still a wet wire that should dry out with more time - eg. if water or cleaner actually leaked into the stovetop.

Running other burners to warm the top might help speed the process.

On 2017-03-29 2 by Diann

I have a kitchenAid 36 inch glass cook top. Last night all ignitors started clicking after cleaning. I let it dry out and this morning, 3 of the 4 burners ignite.

The large burner, which I use the most gets gas but will not ignite. How do I fix this? Is this somthing I can do myself?
Thank you for your help.

On 2017-03-0 by (mod) - all igniters spark but some don't stop when the burner lights

When some igniters work and others don't, I

- inspect for wet, shorted wires in the stovetop

- food or crud on the igniter or burner edge (or water) that prevents the igniter from sparking properly

- debris or water at the burner that prevents a sensor from detecting that a flame is present

- then I replace the igniters

- if all else fails we may have to replace the control module

On 2017-03-05 by Peter J.

Also, I just noticed that when turning on the either left hand burner, all four ignitors spark, but then the three not on stop when the one burner is lit. (This only true on the left side.) Thanks for bearing with me. Peter

One more thing. When either left hand burner is turned on, both the left front and rear front igniters ignite, but the ignitor of the burner not turned on will stop sparking when the flame starts. Thanks for your help. Peter

I made a mistake in my comments. The left front and left rear burners work fine on their own. Thanks. Peter J.

Three of the gas range burners on my Viking range, purchased in 1995, click at once when only the front right burner, or the rear right burner is turned on. The burner that's intended to turn on does, but the front right, rear right and rear left igniters keep clicking.

The right front burner works fine on its own and the rear right works fine on its own. All the burners with the continuous clicking will fire up and turn off normally during the constant clicking if the gas is turned on. The igniters look ok and I cleaned them all around; no moisture detected; the wires look ok, tight connections;

I replaced each of the four spark ignition switches located behind the burner knobs. I opened the spark ignition module housing to do a visual check and all looked ok. As a next step should I replace the spark ignition module, and/or the ignitors, or call an expert?

The spark that the igniters generates looks about the same from burner to burner. Any suggestions? Thanks.

On 2017-02-18 by (mod) - successful repair of Lacacnche Macon gas burner igniter by cleaning

GL

Fantastic. I'm so glad this information worked for you. Thanks for the nice feed-back.

I don't know where you're located, but Lacanche Macon appliances are sold both in their home France and in the U.K. If you're in the U.K. you can get more information and perhaps (when needed sometime) replacement igniters at

https://www.lacanche.co.uk/technical/

or if you don't have a user's manual this one might help

LACANCHE GAS SURFACE BURNERS User's Manual [PDF], retrieved 2017/02/18, Original source: https://www.frenchranges.com/support/lacancheuser.pdf

On 2017-02-18 by GL

Excellent Helpful Site. Thank you. Our 12 year old but little used Lacanche Macon LPG gas oven has always been slow to start up from scratch,

An recently it started intermittently clicking even though the pilot light was clearly on.

After reading your analysis I got a toothbrush and cleaned the igniter head and pin and the thermocouple. The toothbrush came out moderately dirty including rust I think. The oven igniter now works perfectly and quickly.

On 2017-02-06 by (mod) - one burner won't ignite, bad modulator on gas igniter

@Les, yes all burners spark at once on most igniter designs.

On 2017-02-06 by Les

Ok left front burner won't spark. Took rang apart. Found out the connection that the wires

Run through at the knob had burnt out. Switched wires for front right and left burners at modulator. Left front now sparks.

Replaced the part at the knob switched wires back still no spark. Switched wires again I have spark. Then I thought modulators was bad. Unhooked wire from modulator for front left tried without wire on high spark from that prong on modulator.

Re hook wire to it no spark. Why will it ark when not connected to that wire but not when it is connected. Remember I also switched the wires to see if it was bad or the ignighter both fine. Please help.

On 2017-02-05 by Anonymous - should all four burners spark at once?

Should all 4 burners spark when you you turn on a nob on a cook top

On 2017-02-05 by Meegan

ALL switches work on one ignitor is this a problem I didn't connect the gas as yet

On 2017-02-04 by Tom- KitchenAid 3 of 4 burners won't work

I have a Kitchen aide gas cooktop, fairly old model. None of the burners worked so I purchased a new part for that (do not remember name).

Now the all work, except for one issue regarding the igniters. There are 4 burners, going from bottom left to bottom right a smaller burner, a large burner, small, then large.

If you turn on either of the large ones everything works fine.

If you turn on the bottom left it works OK but will not stop sparking. If, however, you then turn on the other smaller burner they both stop sparking.

So somehow both small burners need to be on for the igniters to stop sparking. In addition, the igniter in the big burner, working fine by itself, also starts sparking when the small burner is turned on. What is going on?

See GE GAS COOKTOP Manual Model ZGU384NSM2SS [PDF] covers both LP gas model ZGU384L and Natural Gas model ZGU384N

On 2017-01-20 by viva - GE Monogram gas stove one burner won't stop sparking

I have GE monogram gas drop-in stove, model number: ZGU384NSM2SS

. Its only 3 years old. Since the time it was brand new the left rear burner would spark intermittently even if the burner was lighted. It never did so when the burner was off. Last Thanksgiving I had a major spill.

The whole stove stopped working. We did some troubleshooting and realized that the transformer wasn't working.

Cleaned and dried the entire stove and then installed a new transformer. Stove started working but had another issue with one of the burners. Installed a new switch harness and that corrected the burner issue.

However now the left and right rear igniters will not stop clicking when burner is on. I have made sure that the igniters and the holes for the gas are completely clean. The horizontal flame that makes the igniter stop sparking is nice and big and blue. As a last attempt I even changed the igniters and installed new ones.

That didn't help at all.

Note: The igniters only stop sparking if I switch on both the left and right rear burners at the same time. If one of them is on by itself the igniter keeps sparking. Please help. I am at a loss.

On 2016-11-17 by Grant - one burner won't stay lit

Hi. On two of my burners the igniter sparks, gas flows, lights and burns nicely while the knob is pressed in, but will not stay lit.

They require multiple attempts and up to a minute before they will stay lit. The other two stay lit after two or three seconds. What's up. The model is Unique Elite 30"

On 2016-11-14 by Kevin - igniter won't stop sparking

Igniter on gas stove won't stop sparking when burner is off

On 2016-11-08 by (mod) Check for debris onthe igniter or on the burner edge to which the igniter spark jumps

Emil:

Start by checking for crud or grease on the igniter or on the burner edge or metal surface to which the igniter sparks. CHeck also for one or more cracked igniters. Many newer stoves rely on sensing the heat of the flame at the igniter to stop the sparking.

It might be diagnostic to try turning off burners one by one - you may find that one specific one, or its wire is the culprit.

On 2016-11-08 by Emil - Viking gas stove igniters keep clicking

I have a Viking gas stove and recently the igniters would not work on all 4 burners so I replaced the spark module.

Now the stove will light but the igniters keep clicking unless all 4 burners are on. If I turn one of the 4 off, the clicking will start again. I can't figure out why this is happening. Do you think the spark module is defective or is something else causing the problem?

On 2016-10-16 by Val - crooked burner top caused igniter problems

My burner problems was solved by reading your excellent article ... I had not replaced the top cover securely after cleaning. Easy fix.

However, before I repositioned the burner top, I turned on an adjacent burner and the flame ignitor from the first burner briefly sparked as well.

There was no ignition spark from the back two burners. Maybe this is normal and I just never noticed it before? Thanks for your answer.

On 2016-10-05 by Robert - one burner won't spark, won't ignite

I have a gas range where the left rear ignitor isn't sparking. I have changed the spark module and the switch on the knob but spark module still wont ignite left rear.

If I go to ignite any other burner it sparks and can then have ignition. I have checked everything I can think of. What is going on?

On 2016-09-18 by (mod) - igniters click constantly depending on where the stove is plugged-in

George:

That's such a strange situation I can but guess that

1. in moving the power cord you are slightly moving wiring in the cooktop and thus causing or eliminating a short or current leak
or
2. there is a loose or bad connection at one of the electrical receptacles

or - most-likely

3. the bad electrical receptacle is missing its grounding conductor so the stovetop isn't properly grounded - thus causing malfunction of the igniter system

as I am presuming that electrical power, voltage, would be identical throughout your home.

On 2016-09-17 by George Peveto - igniters click constantly if plugged into certsain electrical outlet

new cook top and igniters click constantly when the power cord is plugged into one outlet near the stove but works as designed when plugged into another outlet or when plugged into an extension cord from any other kitchen outlet

On 2016-09-08 by Bonnie Roderick

My igniter quit,
I forgot and turned switch on control started smoking this is a Maytag gas cook top 5 to 6 yrs old

On 2016-09-02 by (mod) - bluetooth controller stops annoying igniter clicking

Lorendi,

Kudos for a creative solution, though of course I'd prefer to have found and fixed the problem. If the igniters are themselves good, often the issue is shorted wiring or a bad controller.

Still I pose that the manufacturer of your gas appliance may have the opinion that your solution is improper or unsafe. I'd want to know the specifics of why.

On 2016-09-01 by lorendi

We had the continuous sparking problem and performed all the recommended checks and cleaning but the problem persisted. Our "fix" was to install a bluetooth electrical outlet controller at the plug for the stove. Now, a quick press on the remote engages the outlet to the stove and the stove starts sparking.

After starting the burner(s) another click on the remote disengages the outlet and stops the sparking. Simple but not elegant - but cheap ($21 for the bluethooth controlled outlet at Home Depot). My wife likes this arrangement much more than dealing with a lighter.

On 2016-08-28 by (mod) Summary of reasons the igniters won't stop clicking

Marmee, if you've checked each of the troubleshooting suggestions in the article GAS COOKTOP or STOVE IGNITER REPAIR I'm probably stuck too, as there I list the reasons that igniters wont' stop clidking:

- burner top askew

- wet

- food spills

- cracked damaged igniter itself

- shorted igniter wiring inside the stove top]

- failed igniter control module

- defective burner control switch or switch wire from burner control to igniter control module

On 2016-08-28 by Marmee - igniters won't stop clicking

Igniters don,t stop clicking. Tried cleaning with alcohol, didn't help. What can I do next?

On 2016-08-15 by (mod) - cleaning fixes intermittent clicking at gas burner igniter

David,

I am always really happy when someone figures out another igniter clicking problem explanation to add to our list - you may have suggested one.

The burner knob on most stoves have a position in which the igniter is supposed to operate; something I've not considered before is a problem there: dirt in the knob control, or water, or a failing control.

On 2016-08-15 by David - gas burner knob must be in the right position for an igniter to work on some appliances

I've read your informative and helpful article GAS COOKTOP or STOVE IGNITER REPAIR as well as comments related to my situation. Frankly, I'm uncertain you will add much to what is already said. We've had our stove for a little over 9 years now. It has worked will without a problem.

Today, after cleaning the stove top, I noticed the gad igniter clicking device ignites every few seconds. Using your diagnostic instructions, I re-cleaned around the igniters of each burner checking to see if one was damaged, etc. All seems to be well. What I have not done is look under the hood to see if there are problems with connecting wires underneath.

Are there other options that could be causing this phenomenon? At present, all appears in order aside from the systematic clicking go the igniter.

Please advise.

Dave

Question: Maytag gas range igniter begins clicking every 10 seconds, powering off & on = short term fix

(Aug 24, 2014) Sue Deaunym said:

My Maytag gas range was installed about 6 years ago. Its never been exactly "right," and from time to time, the igniter would begin clicking every 10 seconds or so, even when the burners were fully off. (Unplugging the range for a few minutes usually remedied the problem.) The gas range replaced an electric one.

But we've always had some funky electrical problems in the kitchen that we've never before associated with the range.

An outlet strip wired into the outlet box into which the range was plugged would occasionally shock people who touched it. I inspected the outlet box and the strip, and could find nothing wrong with it. Checked with a volt meter, it seems OK.

I installed an underground gas line to a propane tank last week, and the guy hooking it up aid he was shocked on several occasions. So I went under the house and measured 120VAC on the copper pie leaving the house.

Disconnecting the range the stray current disappeared.

Looking at the starter devices at each burner, I see no problem.

How should I begin?

Reply: need proper electrical ground for igniters to work

Sue

Thanks for this excellent tip about gas flame igniters - it's not one I'd considered and it makes perfect sense.

Some igniters depend on proper electrical grounding for proper operation including the sensing of when gas or an actual flame is present. I'll add your notes to the article

GAS COOKTOP or STOVE IGNITER REPAIR

It sounds as if there is a wiring error or accidental short circuit in your range.

Start by turning off power to the range - that will turnoff power to any clock, control board, the igniter module, and the igniters and their wiring.

Next, remove the range top burner parts and top itself sufficiently to expose the wiring to the igniters.

Look for one or more shorted igniter wires. For example, if there have been spills into the range top interior the liquid may have shorted a wire, particularly if the wire, in its routing, is in contact with the metal base or side of the range top.

Also look for burned or shorted wires connected to the igniter module.

If all of the wiring is perfect and the clicking problem persists you may need to replace the igniter module and/or the control circuit board.

It's certainly possible that the stray current was a factor in damaging those components, particularly the control module which is what I suspect is the problem here.

Question: electric igniter won't stop clicking

17 March 2015 Jay said:
My cooktop electric igniter does not stop clicking and the knob is on off and no smell of gas.

What could be the problem? I've unplugged the electrical cord so that it would stop clicking

Reply:

Jay

In addition to the more detailed gas cooktop igniter diagnosis discussed in the article GAS COOKTOP or STOVE IGNITER REPAIR

• be sure the burner control is truly in its off position.
• Then look or debris around the igniter,
• a burner cap askew,
• liquid under the burner cap,
• water or other liquids spilled and leaked into the cooktop shorting the wire (this is the most common trouble)
• or last a failed control module.

Question: gas stove auto igniter keeps going with the clicking sound

(Apr 26, 2016) Anonymous said:
Good afternon my gas stove auto igniter keeps going with the clicking sound i have turn it of from the power point how can this be fixed

Reply:

Check

- a burner cap askew

- water, food, debris on the burner or igniter

- a shorted wire between igniter and its control

- a failed igniter

- a failed igniter control

More gas burner igniter troubleshooting details are at GAS IGNITER CLICKING DIAGNOSIS in this article and in more detail at GAS IGNITER DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR - separate article.

Question: All of the gas igniters stopped working (no clicking at all) at the same time

(July 22, 2016) Graeme said:
Good evening. All of the gas igniters stopped working (no clicking at all) at the same time on our recently purchased Westinghouse dual fuel stove. Electricity is connected to the stove (stove timer on and electric oven works). Any suggestions? Cheers

Reply:

Graeme:

I'd first confirm that the appliance has live electrical power, then I'd check for a visually-obvious failure such as a burned or disconnected wire to or from the igniter control module.

then I'd consider replacing the control module for the igniters.

To do that requires turning off the electricity to the stove, opening or disassembling it to expose and remove the igniter, and then installing a factory replacement.

Question: my stove top burners light perfectly BUT they wont stop clicking

2016/08/04 LC said:
Hi, my stove top burners light perfectly BUT they wont stop clicking (and I have thoroughly cleaned everything!) help!

Reply:

Gas burner igniter troubleshooting and repair details are at GAS IGNITER CLICKING DIAGNOSIS

...

Continue reading at GAS COOKTOP or STOVE IGNITER REPAIR - topic home, or select a topic from the closely-related articles below, or see the complete ARTICLE INDEX.

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• GAS FIRED WATER HEATERS
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• GAS IGNITER DIAGNOSIS & REPAIR

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