The Short Answer
If the burner clicks, the spark is present, so the fault is gas flow or the burner cap. If there is no click, the igniter or spark module is the suspect. If it clicks and you smell gas but it will not catch, the electrode may be sparking away from the gas stream because the cap is out of position. Reading the click is the fastest way to narrow it down.
Start with the Quick Checks
Confirm the gas supply is on and other burners work, which rules out the whole appliance. Lift the burner cap and reseat it squarely, since even a small tilt can move the flame port away from the spark. Look for spilled food or moisture in the burner head and clear it once cool. A cap that has been through the dishwasher and put back damp is a common, easily fixed cause. If it still will not light, the igniter or valve needs attention.
Notes by Brand
- Wolf sealed burners and rangetops: a burner that clicks endlessly or lights slowly usually needs the cap reseated or the spark module checked. See our note on the clicking igniter.
- Viking open and sealed burners: the spark electrode and the simmer valve are common culprits, and our guide on a burner that will not light covers the steps.
- Thermador Star burners: the star-shaped port can trap debris, so a clean burner head often restores a clean light.
- La Cornue and other range cookers: hand-built burners use their own ignition, and a weak spark or a worn thermocouple is the usual reason a burner will not stay lit.
Symptom to Cause
| What You See | Likely Cause | What We Check |
|---|---|---|
| Clicks but will not light | Cap out of position or blocked port | Cap seating, port cleaning, and gas flow |
| No click at all | Igniter or spark module | Spark module, wiring, and electrode |
| Lights then goes out | Weak flame, thermocouple, or valve | Flame quality, safety valve, and gas pressure |
| All burners clicking constantly | Spark module stuck or moisture in switches | Module, switches, and control |
| One burner dead, others fine | That burner's igniter or blocked port | Igniter, port, and cap on the affected burner |
IF You Smell Gas
Turn the burner knob off, open a window, and do not operate any switch or flame. If the odor is strong or persists, leave and call your gas utility. Gas safety comes before any troubleshooting, and we would rather you book than take a risk.
What We Do on Site
We confirm spark and gas independently, reseat and inspect the burner cap and head, and test the igniter, spark module and safety valve. If a thermocouple or module has failed we replace it with a a part selected for the approved scope and verify a clean, stable flame on every burner. You get a written estimate before any parts go in.
Burner Refusing to Light?
Book a diagnostic visit. Diagnostic and travel fees, if applicable, are confirmed before the appointment and before repair approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
My Burner Clicks but Will Not Light. What Is Wrong?
Clicking means the spark is working, so the problem is usually gas reaching the burner or a misaligned burner cap. A cap seated slightly off, a clogged port, or moisture in the burner head are the common causes, all of which we can correct.
Why Does One Burner Not Light When the Others Do?
A single dead burner points to that burner's igniter, a blocked port, or a cap that is out of position, since the gas supply and control feeding the others is clearly fine. It is usually the least expensive kind of ignition repair.
Is It Safe to Keep Trying to Light a Burner?
If you smell gas, stop, turn the knob off, ventilate, and do not use any ignition source. Book a visit or call your gas utility if the smell is strong. If there is no gas smell, a few attempts are fine, but repeated failed lighting means it is time to have it looked at.
Related
Cooktop Repair
Ignition, valve and burner faults on gas and induction.
Oven Not Heating
When the same range's oven has gone cold too.
Clicking Igniter
Why a burner keeps sparking after it lights.