If your gas stove won’t light, flames keep flickering, or you smell gas, you’re not alone. These issues pop up in many homes and most of them have simple solutions. Below we break down the typical faults, safe troubleshooting steps, and when it’s time to bring in a qualified repairer.
Igniter won’t spark. The igniter is the little click‑y‑pop you hear when you turn a knob. If it’s dead, the burner won’t light. Check for dust or food debris covering the sparker and clean it with a soft brush. If the spark still doesn’t happen, the igniter may need replacing.
Burner won’t stay lit. Often caused by clogged burner holes. Remove the burner cap, soak it in hot, soapy water and use a pin to clear each hole. Rinse well and dry before re‑installing.
Flickering or uneven flames. This usually means the gas pressure is off or the air‑to‑gas mix is wrong. Adjust the air shutter on the burner (it’s the small metal plate near the base) until the flame is steady and blue. If you’re unsure, keep the flame blue and steady—any orange or yellow indicates too much air or a dirty burner.
Smell of gas. A faint whiff after you turn the stove off can happen if the flame is low. Turn the knob off, wait a minute, then light it again. If the smell persists, close the gas supply valve and call a professional right away.
Most minor problems are fixed with a few tools: a screwdriver, a soft brush, and a wrench. Start by turning off the gas supply, then follow these steps:
If after these checks the stove still won’t light, the issue may be internal: a cracked gas valve, worn ignition module, or a faulty safety thermocouple. These parts require a Gas Safe engineer to replace, and attempting a repair yourself can be dangerous.
When you notice any of these red flags, call a professional:
Remember, safety comes first. A quick visual check and basic cleaning will solve most everyday hiccups, but don’t gamble with gas leaks or faulty valves. A certified technician will ensure everything is sealed, test the pressure, and get your stove back to full power without risk.
Keep a small maintenance routine: wipe burner caps weekly, check igniters monthly, and listen for any unusual clicks. With these habits, your gas stove will stay reliable, and you’ll avoid costly emergency calls.
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