Oven Igniter Not Working: Here's How to Fix It

A non-functioning oven can be a major inconvenience, especially when the issue lies with the igniter. The oven igniter is a critical component that lights the gas and starts the heating process. When it fails, your oven may not heat properly—or at all. Fortunately, most igniter problems are common and can be addressed with the right approach and basic tools. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to identify the issue, understand the role of various oven igniter parts, and provide clear, step-by-step solutions to get your appliance working again quickly and safely.

Common Causes for Oven Igniter Not Working and Their Fixes

When your oven isn’t heating up or takes too long to do so, the igniter should be the first component you inspect. Let’s explore the most frequent reasons behind oven igniter failure and how to fix each one.

Power Supply Issues

Power supply issues can be caused by a tripped circuit breaker, a faulty electrical outlet, a damaged power cord, or internal wiring faults that prevent electricity from reaching the oven’s igniter.

Fixes:

• Make sure that the oven is connected to a functional outlet. To verify power, try plugging another device into the same socket.

• Make sure the circuit breaker in your house hasn't tripped. Reset if necessary.

• Examine the oven's power cord for damage or loose connections.

• Make sure all hardwiring connections are secure and tight if you're utilizing a wall oven.

If the power supply is functional and the igniter still doesn’t work, it’s time to look deeper into the ignition system or consider testing the oven igniter parts for continuity.

Worn-Out Igniter

Over time, the igniter can wear out and fail to reach the temperature required to open the gas valve, even if it glows faintly.

Fixes:

• Observe the igniter when the oven is turned on. A healthy igniter glows white-hot and ignites gas within 90 seconds.

• If it takes longer or doesn’t ignite the burner at all, the igniter may be too weak.

• Test the igniter’s continuity using a multimeter. A reading of infinite resistance indicates it’s faulty.

• Replace the igniter with a compatible one that matches your model.

When replacing worn oven igniter parts, always handle them with care, as they are fragile and sensitive to oils from your fingers.

Dirty or Clogged Igniter

Grease, food debris, or carbon buildup can block the igniter or its surrounding components, preventing it from lighting the burner.

Fixes:

• Before beginning any cleaning, turn off and unplug the oven.

• Use a soft brush or dry cloth to gently remove debris around the igniter.

• Avoid using water or liquid cleaners directly on the igniter.

• If the igniter is covered in soot or melted residue, a replacement may be necessary.

Routine maintenance and occasional inspection of oven igniter parts can prolong their life and ensure efficient performance.

Faulty Safety Valve

The safety valve works in conjunction with the igniter. If the igniter is functional but the gas valve doesn’t open, the problem may lie with the valve.

Fixes:

• Check that the igniter is drawing the correct current (usually 3.2 to 3.6 amps for most models).

• If the current draw is correct but no gas is released, the safety valve could be stuck or defective.

• Safety valves are not commonly cleaned or repaired; replacement is typically the only option.

• Consult your oven’s technical manual to locate and replace the valve correctly.

While replacing the valve, inspect surrounding oven igniter parts to ensure no other components were affected or damaged.

Damaged Igniter Wiring or Connections

Sometimes the igniter itself is functional, but damaged wiring or poor electrical connections prevent it from operating.

Fixes:

• Visually inspect all wires connected to the igniter. Look for fraying, burn marks, or loose terminals.

• Use a multimeter to test for continuity in the wiring harness.

• Reconnect or replace damaged wires using appropriate electrical connectors.

• To avoid arcing, make sure all connections are securely fastened.

If wiring is compromised, it may have also affected other oven igniter parts, especially if overheating or short-circuiting occurred.

Control Board Malfunction

Modern ovens often use an electronic control board to manage the ignition sequence. If the board fails, it may not send voltage to the igniter.

Fixes:

• Check if the control panel is responding correctly to commands.

• If the oven timer, display, or settings behave abnormally, the control board may be to blame.

• Use a multimeter to test whether the board is delivering voltage to the igniter during a bake cycle.

• Replace the control board if it’s not outputting the required voltage.

Always ensure the new board is compatible and properly programmed for your model. After replacing the board, retest the entire ignition system, including all oven igniter parts, to ensure correct function.

Gas Line or Valve Blockage

Even with a working igniter, if gas isn’t reaching the burner, the issue may lie within the gas line or valve.

Fixes:

• Inspect the gas line for kinks, leaks, or shutoff valves that may be closed.

• Check for gas pressure using a manometer (this may require a licensed technician).

• Clean or replace any clogged burner orifices.

• Turn off the gas and have an expert check the system if you're not sure.

Never attempt to disassemble or repair the gas valve unless you are trained and certified—improper handling is dangerous. Once resolved, confirm that all oven igniter parts are functioning properly during ignition.

Thermostat or Temperature Sensor Failure

The oven may have a malfunctioning sensor or thermostat if it lights up initially but turns off too soon or never reaches the desired temperature.

Fixes:

• Use a multimeter to test the resistance of the temperature sensor. It should vary based on temperature.

• If the reading is not within the acceptable range, replace the sensor.

• Ensure the sensor isn’t touching the oven wall, as this can give false readings.

• For older ovens with mechanical thermostats, calibration or full replacement may be needed.

Proper sensor readings are critical for ignition timing and cycle control. Always recheck your oven’s operation after replacing sensors to confirm all oven igniter parts are syncing correctly.

Igniter Not Aligned Properly

An igniter not aligned properly can fail to ignite the gas because misalignment prevents the igniter’s heat from reaching the burner, often caused by loose mounting screws or incorrect installation.

Fixes:

• Unplug the oven and remove the bottom panel to access the igniter.

• Confirm that the igniter is positioned close enough to the gas flow from the burner (usually less than ½ inch).

• Tighten mounting screws if loose, or reinstall if misaligned.

• Check the burner ports near the igniter for clogs that might redirect the gas flow.

A misaligned igniter can also cause delayed ignition and small explosions of gas buildup—be sure alignment is correct to prevent this issue.

When your oven igniter stops working, it disrupts your cooking routine, but most problems can be fixed with some careful troubleshooting. From worn-out igniter parts to wiring or control board issues, understanding the root cause is key to a successful repair. Always ensure you use the correct oven igniter parts designed for your specific model to avoid repeated failures. If you’re comfortable with basic electrical and gas safety, many fixes are DIY-friendly. Otherwise, seeking professional help is wise. With the right knowledge and tools, you can quickly get your oven back to reliable operation.

Written by Allen Rode for HnKParts, a trusted provider of high-quality appliance parts, offering a wide range of oven igniter parts, oven parts, and more.