A gas burner that keeps clicking, takes longer to light, or fails to ignite may point to a worn or faulty igniter. So, how do you replace a gas stove igniter safely and correctly? The process involves shutting off the power and gas supply, removing the damaged igniter, and installing a compatible replacement. At BlueStars Parts, you can find reliable stove and oven parts to help make your repair process easier and more convenient.
Quick Diagnosis
Before replacing any component, follow this troubleshooting order: identify the symptom, perform basic checks, and confirm whether the igniter is the actual cause. Once the faulty part has been identified, determine whether your appliance uses a cooktop spark igniter or an oven glow-bar igniter. Each type requires a different replacement procedure, so do not begin disassembly based on symptoms alone.
Is the Igniter Actually Bad?
Before replacing the igniter, rule out other possible causes of ignition failure:
- Cooktop spark igniter: If the burner keeps clicking or fails to light, check whether the burner cap is properly aligned and the burner ports are clean and dry. If the problem persists, the igniter, wiring, or gas supply may need further inspection.
- Oven glow-bar igniter: If the oven takes too long to ignite or the igniter glows without lighting the burner, a weak igniter is possible. However, gas supply, wiring, or control issues can cause similar symptoms. Professional testing may be needed to confirm the faulty component.
| Cooktop Spark Igniter | Oven Glow-Bar Igniter | |
|---|---|---|
| Repair Time | 15–30 minutes | 20–45 minutes |
| Difficulty | Easy. DIY only if the igniter and wire connector are easily accessible without handling gas piping or complex wiring. | Easy to Moderate. DIY only if the igniter and connector are accessible without extensive cabinet or rear-panel disassembly or complex wire splicing. |
| Steps to Follow | 1. Remove grates and burner caps 2. Remove the electrode screw or clip 3. Disconnect the wire connector 4. Install the new electrode and re-secure |
1. Remove oven racks and floor panel 2. Unscrew the mounting bracket 3. Unplug the wire harness 4. Mount the new igniter 5. Reassemble and reconnect |
| Recommended BlueStars Parts | Varies by model | 316489400 Range Oven Igniter / WB13K21 Gas Range Oven Igniter |
1. What You'll Need to Replace a Gas Stove Igniter
Preparing the correct replacement igniter and a few basic hand tools is very important. Check your stove's model number first, since the fasteners and access method can vary between cooktop and oven igniters.
Before You Replace the Igniter
Before purchasing a replacement igniter, check these common issues to avoid replacing a working component unnecessarily:
- Do you smell gas? Stop troubleshooting immediately and evacuate the area. Avoid electrical switches, flames, or sparks. Contact your gas utility or emergency services from a safe location.
- Is the burner cap properly aligned? Make sure it sits correctly on the burner base, as misalignment can prevent ignition.
- Are the burner ports clogged? Check for food residue or grease buildup that may block gas flow. Clean them according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Is the spark electrode dirty or wet? With the stove off and cool, check for moisture or debris around the electrode. Clean and dry it as recommended in the owner's manual.
- Does the oven igniter glow without lighting the burner? A weak igniter is possible, but this symptom alone does not confirm failure. Further testing may be needed to check the igniter and related components.
Note: Replace the igniter only after confirming it is faulty. If the cause remains unclear, consult a qualified technician.
1.1. Tools You Need To Prepare
| Tool | Quantity | Required? | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phillips screwdriver | 1 | Often required | Used to remove access panels, burner parts, or mounting screws. |
| Flat-head screwdriver | 1 | Depends on model | Helpful for some panels and fasteners. |
| 1/4-inch nut driver or socket | 1 | Often required | A common size for igniter and burner mounting screws. |
| 5/16-inch or 3/8-inch nut driver/socket | 1 | Depends on model | Some ranges use different fastener sizes. |
| Work gloves | 1 pair | Recommended | Help protect your hands from sharp metal edges. |
| Safety glasses | 1 pair | Recommended | Help protect your eyes while working around panels and wiring. |
| Flashlight/work light | 1 | Recommended | Makes wiring and mounting points easier to see. |
| Phone/camera | 1 | Recommended | Take a photo of the wire position before disconnecting anything. |
Note: Always check the service or owner's manual for your exact stove model before starting, rather than assuming all ranges use the same screws or access method.
1.2. Safety Preparation Before You Start
Before replacing a gas stove igniter, take a few minutes to secure the gas supply, electrical power, and work area. These steps help reduce the risk of gas leaks, electrical shock, burns, or accidental damage.
- Shut off the gas supply valve: Close the appliance shutoff valve before starting the repair.
- Disconnect electrical power: Unplug the range or switch off the circuit breaker, since gas stove igniters still use electricity.
- Stop immediately if you smell gas: Do not continue the repair, operate electrical switches, or create any flame or spark. Leave the area if the odor is strong and contact your gas utility or emergency service before using the appliance again.
- Let the stove and oven cool completely: Hot burners, racks, and metal panels can cause burns.
- Wear work gloves and safety glasses: These help protect against sharp sheet-metal edges and loose debris.
- Confirm the replacement igniter matches your exact stove model: The wrong igniter can cause poor ignition or installation problems.
2. How to Replace a Cooktop Spark Igniter
Only proceed with replacement after confirming that the cooktop spark igniter is faulty. If cleaning the electrode, clearing the burner ports, or correcting the burner cap alignment resolves the ignition problem, replacement is unnecessary.
Once the faulty igniter has been confirmed, the gas supply is shut off, the power is disconnected, and the cooktop is completely cool, you can begin the repair. Work on one burner at a time so the caps, burner heads, and screws do not get mixed up.
Step 1: Remove Grates/Burner Caps
Lift off the grate covering the affected burner, then remove the burner cap and burner head. If the burner head is secured with screws, use the appropriate screwdriver or nut driver to remove them first. Keep each part nearby and note its original position for easier reassembly.
Note: Depending on your stove model, you may also need to loosen the cooktop and lift it slightly to reach the igniter mounting point and wire underneath. Do not force the cooktop if it does not lift easily.
Step 2: Remove Electrode Screw/Clip
Before removing the electrode, check whether the burner cap and burner head are properly aligned. Misalignment can cause continuous clicking or prevent ignition, and correcting it may resolve the problem without replacing the electrode.
Locate the spark electrode beside the burner. Depending on the design, it may be held in place by a small mounting screw or a metal retaining clip. Remove the screw or release the clip carefully, then loosen the old electrode from its holder. Avoid applying too much pressure to the ceramic body, as it can crack easily. Before disconnecting the electrode wire, take a clear photo of the connector and wire routing to guide reassembly.
Step 3: Disconnect Wire Connector
Locate the spark wire connected to the bottom of the electrode and gently pull the connector off the electrode terminal. Hold the connector itself rather than pulling on the wire, which could damage the connection. Take note of how the wire is routed so it can be positioned the same way during installation and kept away from hot surfaces or sharp metal edges.
Step 4: Install New Electrode & Re-secure
Insert the new spark electrode into the same position as the old one and secure it with the original screw or retaining clip. Reconnect the spark wire firmly, making sure the terminal is fully seated. Do not overtighten the mounting screw, as excessive pressure may damage the ceramic insulator.
Reinstall the burner head, cap, and grate, making sure the burner cap sits flat and centered.
Before restoring gas and electrical power, complete this final safety check:
- Connector seated: Make sure the wire connector is fully attached and secure.
- Electrode firmly mounted: Confirm the electrode is properly positioned and does not move or wobble.
- Burner cap centered: Check that the burner cap sits flat and aligns correctly with the burner head.
- Wire safely routed: Ensure no wires touch hot components or sharp metal edges or become pinched during reassembly.
Restore the gas supply and electrical power, then turn the burner to the LITE position to confirm that the electrode sparks and the burner ignites normally.
3. How to Replace a Gas Oven Igniter (Glow-Bar Style)
Before replacing an oven glow-bar igniter, confirm that the ignition problem is caused by the igniter rather than the gas supply, wiring, safety valve, or control system. An igniter that glows without lighting the burner is a warning sign, not definitive proof of failure. A qualified technician may need to verify its electrical current against the manufacturer's specifications.
Once the igniter has been confirmed faulty and the correct replacement part has been identified, the process involves five steps: accessing the burner, removing the old igniter, disconnecting the wiring, mounting the replacement, and reassembling the oven.
Note: A Glowing Igniter Doesn't Always Mean It's Working
A glow-bar igniter may still glow orange or red but fail to draw enough electrical current to open the gas safety valve. However, glowing without burner ignition does not confirm that the igniter is faulty, as gas supply, wiring, or safety valve issues may cause similar symptoms. Have a qualified technician test the igniter's current draw and related components before replacing it.
Step 1: Remove Oven Racks and Floor Panel
Take out all oven racks to give yourself enough room to work. Remove the screws securing the oven floor panel, then lift or slide the panel out to expose the bake burner and igniter underneath. Some ovens also have a flame spreader or burner shield above the burner. Remove it if necessary and keep the screws organized for reassembly.
Step 2: Unscrew the Mounting Bracket
Locate the glow-bar igniter mounted beside the bake burner tube. Use the correct nut driver or socket to remove the screws holding the igniter or its mounting bracket in place. Before removing it completely, note the igniter's position relative to the burner. The new part should be installed in the same orientation so it can ignite the gas properly.
Step 3: Unplug the Wire Harness
Follow the igniter wires until you reach the connector, then release the locking tab and unplug the wire harness. Pull on the connector itself rather than the wires to avoid damaging them.
Depending on the oven model, the connector may be accessible from inside the oven or through a rear access panel. If the replacement igniter's connector does not match the original harness, first verify that you have the correct part for your oven model.
Do not splice wires by default. Wire splicing should only be considered if the part manufacturer explicitly allows it and specifies the correct heat-rated connectors and wiring method. Otherwise, have a qualified technician complete the connection.
Step 4: Mount the New Igniter
Position the new igniter on the burner bracket in the same orientation as the old one.
- Secure the mounting screws without overtightening them.
- Reconnect the wiring and make sure the connector is fully seated.
- Route the wires away from the burner and other hot surfaces.
- Avoid touching the dark gray igniter element with bare fingers.
Recommended replacement parts:
After testing confirms that the oven glow-bar igniter has failed, check your appliance's exact model number and original part number before selecting a replacement. Do not order a new igniter based on delayed ignition or glowing symptoms alone.
- For compatible Frigidaire, Kenmore, Electrolux, and Crosley ovens, the 316489400 Range Oven Igniter can help restore reliable ignition when the original glow-bar igniter becomes weak or fails.
- For compatible GE, Samsung, and Hotpoint ovens, the WB13K21 Gas Range Oven Igniter is another replacement option for an oven that does not heat, has delayed ignition, or has an igniter that glows without lighting the burner.
316489400 Range Oven Igniter and WB13K21 Gas Range Oven Igniter
Step 5: Reassemble and Reconnect
Reinstall the burner shield or flame spreader if you removed one, then place the oven floor panel back into position and secure the screws.
- Slide the racks back into the oven.
- Restore the gas supply and electrical power.
- Set the oven to BAKE and confirm that the igniter glows and the burner lights normally.
- Stop using the oven if you notice unusual gas odors, delayed ignition, or abnormal burner behavior.
4. How to Test the New Igniter
After reassembly, test the stove or oven before returning it to normal use:
- Step 1 – Restore gas and power: Open the appliance shutoff valve and reconnect the stove to electricity.
- Step 2 – Test a cooktop spark igniter: Turn the burner knob to LITE and confirm that the electrode sparks consistently and the burner ignites without repeated clicking.
- Step 3 – Test an oven glow-bar igniter: Set the oven to BAKE and confirm that the igniter glows and the burner lights normally without excessive delay.
- Step 4 – Check the flame: The burner should ignite smoothly and maintain a stable flame. Compare the flame color and pattern with your manufacturer's guidelines, as normal flame characteristics may vary depending on the burner design and fuel type (natural gas or propane).
- Step 5 – Watch for warning signs: Turn the appliance off immediately if you smell gas, hear unusual ignition sounds, or the burner fails to light normally.
- Step 6 – Let the oven cycle once: Allow the burner to cycle on and off once to confirm that the new igniter works consistently.
5. How to Prevent Gas Igniter Problems in the Future
Preventive care depends on the type of ignition system your gas stove uses. Follow these tips to maintain cooktop spark igniters and recognize early warning signs of oven glow-bar igniter problems.
For Cooktop Spark Igniters
- Clean spills promptly: Food, grease, and cleaning residue around the burner can interfere with ignition. Let the cooktop cool, then gently clean the area.
- Keep the electrode clean and dry: Gently clean the electrode according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid soaking or aggressively scrubbing it.
- Clear clogged burner ports: With the burner turned off and completely cool, follow the manufacturer's recommended cleaning method. Avoid using sharp objects or applying excessive force that could enlarge or deform the burner openings.
- Reinstall burner caps correctly: Make sure the burner head and cap are properly aligned after cleaning. An off-center cap or one that doesn't sit flush can cause poor ignition and uneven flames.
- Avoid letting spills enter the gas tube opening: Keeping the burner cap in place helps protect the gas path from food and liquids.
For Oven Glow-Bar Igniters
- Watch for delayed ignition: If the oven consistently takes longer than usual to ignite after selecting Bake, arrange an inspection. Delayed ignition may indicate a weakening igniter or another ignition-system problem.
- Pay attention to prolonged glowing: An igniter that glows orange or red but fails to light the burner is not necessarily working correctly. A weak igniter is one possible cause, but the gas safety valve, wiring, or other components may also require testing.
- Recognize abnormal startup behavior: Repeated ignition failures, unusual startup noises, or inconsistent burner operation may indicate a developing problem. Stop using the oven and seek professional diagnosis if these symptoms persist. If you smell gas, stop troubleshooting immediately, evacuate the area, and contact your gas provider or emergency services from a safe location.
6. FAQs: How Do You Replace a Gas Stove Igniter?
6.1. How long does it take to replace a gas stove igniter?
Replacing a gas stove igniter usually takes 15–45 minutes, depending on the type and stove design. A cooktop spark igniter typically takes around 15–30 minutes, while an oven glow-bar igniter may take 20–45 minutes to replace.
6.2. Can you replace a gas oven igniter yourself, or do you need a technician?
Yes, many gas oven igniters can be replaced as a DIY repair if you are comfortable removing panels and disconnecting wiring. However, because the job involves both electricity and gas, call a qualified technician if you cannot safely shut off the supplies, access the igniter, or confirm the repair.
6.3. How do you know if it's the igniter or the gas valve that's bad?
If the glow-bar igniter glows but the burner takes unusually long to light compared with normal operation, the igniter may be weak. However, glowing alone does not confirm whether the igniter is working properly. A qualified technician can test its electrical current against the manufacturer's specifications. If the igniter meets those specifications but the burner still does not light, the gas safety valve or related components may need further professional testing.
6.4. Do you need to turn off the main gas line, or just the range's shutoff valve?
For most igniter repairs, turning off the range's dedicated gas shutoff valve is sufficient, provided you can clearly identify and safely access it. You normally do not need to shut off gas to the entire house.
If you cannot confidently identify the correct appliance shutoff valve, stop the repair and contact a qualified technician. Do not attempt to locate or operate the main gas shutoff as a substitute. If the valve is damaged, inaccessible, or the repair involves gas piping, leave the work to a qualified professional.
6.5. How much does it cost to replace a gas stove igniter?
According to some repair cost guides, professional gas oven igniter replacement typically costs about $150–$325, while cooktop gas-stove igniter replacement may cost around $100–$200, including parts and labor. The igniter itself commonly costs about $20–$50. These are general estimates rather than fixed prices. Actual costs may vary depending on location, appliance type, brand, model, labor rates, and repair complexity. Contact a local technician for an accurate quote.
If your gas stove keeps clicking, experiences delayed ignition, or fails to light, start by checking simple causes such as burner cap alignment, clogged ports, moisture, and power or gas supply issues. If the problem persists, confirm whether the igniter is faulty and identify the correct igniter type before attempting replacement. After installation, test the appliance according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Stop troubleshooting if you notice gas odors or encounter unsafe electrical or gas connections. If testing confirms that an igniter or related component has failed, explore the Range/Oven Parts collection from BlueStars Parts. Always verify your stove or oven model and original part number before ordering a replacement.
Contact information:
8 The Green, Ste A, Dover, Delaware 19901-3618, United States
Website: https://bluestarsparts.com/
References
Sears PartsDirect. (2026, March 19). How to replace a gas range oven igniter. Sears PartsDirect.
Whirlpool. (n.d.). Clicking or ticking – Gas cooktop. Whirlpool Product Help.
Repair Clinic. (n.d.). GE gas oven isn’t heating? Igniter replacement #WB13K21. Repair Clinic.
