Why Does My Gas Stove Keep Clicking?

Gas stoves are the pride and joy of any dedicated home chef. Their consistent heat output and high power make them the perfect option for anyone who takes cooking seriously.

If you have a gas stove in your kitchen, you're probably accustomed to hearing "click, click, click" when you turn the burner knob. This is the sound of the electric igniter. Once the flame is going, the clicking should stop.

A gas stove not lighting but clicking is likely a problem with the burner or burner caps, or spark mechanisms. Before you schedule a stove repair or diagnosis with one of our appliance service professionals, follow these troubleshooting tips from Mr. Appliance®.

1. Realign the Burner and Burner Caps

One of the most common reasons a gas stove keeps clicking even after it's lit is an improperly aligned burner cap. Once the cooktop is completely cool, remove the burner grate to access the cap beneath it. Remove the cap and re-center it on the base. Try lighting the burner again.

2. Clean and Dry the Burner

Why is your gas stove clicking but not lighting? There may be excess moisture in the burner. This can occur when a pot boils over, after grease spills, or post-cleaning.

To dry everything thoroughly, remove the burner cap and let it air out. To speed up the process, turn all the burners off and wipe the top of the range with a towel. You can also aim a fan at the burner in question or turn on the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes to warm up and dry out the burner from the underside. This should help evaporate any liquid in the burner.

CAUTION: When dealing with this moisture issue, ensure the burner is not full of oil. If you spill a large amount of oil onto the burner while cooking, shut off the burners and soak up the oil using paper towels.

3. Remove Food Debris

If drying and realigning the burners and burner caps didn't fix your problem, look for burned-on food or debris that might obstruct the igniter.

PRO TIP: Use a metal pin or paper clip to clear the debris away from the burner. Avoid using a toothpick for this task because a small piece could break off and become lodged inside, causing even more trouble.

4. Examine the Gas Supply

While you can examine the gas supply for obvious issues, it's crucial to remember that gas appliances can be dangerous if not handled correctly. If you're unsure or uncomfortable, it's best to consult a qualified professional.

Start by checking the main gas valve to your stove, ensuring it's fully turned on. This valve is usually located near the stove or underneath the appliance. Next, inspect the gas line leading to your stove, looking for any visible damage, leaks, or loose connections.

CAUTION: If you smell gas or suspect a leak for another reason, shut off the gas supply, exit your home, and call your utility provider or local fire department.

If the gas stove clicking persists after checking these areas, consult an appliance repair professional for further diagnosis and repair.

5. Check the Igniter

The igniter is a small ceramic component that generates a spark to ignite the gas on your cooktop burners. You'll need to access the igniter by removing burner caps . Visually inspect the igniter for any damage, such as cracks or discoloration. If the igniter appears damaged, it should be replaced.

Common Reasons Why Your Gas Stove Top Is Not Lighting But Clicking

A gas stove clicking but not lighting can be frustrating. Several common reasons can cause this issue, such as:

1. A faulty igniter: The igniter, responsible for creating a spark to ignite the gas, may be malfunctioning. If the igniter is weak or damaged, it may not produce a strong enough spark to ignite the gas.
2. Low gas pressure: Insufficient gas pressure can prevent the gas from igniting properly. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as a partially closed gas valve, a clogged gas line, or a low gas supply.
3. Clogged burner ports: Over time, debris and food particles can accumulate in the burner ports, restricting gas flow. This can lead to a weak flame or prevent the gas from igniting altogether.
4. Moisture in the burner: Excess moisture, whether from a spill or recent cleaning, can prevent the gas from igniting. This is because water can displace the gas, making it difficult for the spark to ignite the fuel.
5. Misaligned burner or burner cap: A misaligned burner cap can disrupt the gas flow and prevent the flame from forming. This can lead to gas stove clicking sounds without successful ignition.
6. Electrical issues: While less common, electrical problems can affect the stove's ignition system, causing it to click without lighting.

If Your Gas Stove Top Keeps Clicking, Consider a Repair

If the gas stove top keeps clicking despite your efforts, you may need to replace the spark module, spark ignition switch, or igniter. It may be possible to order replacement parts from the manufacturer, but the most efficient and safe solution is calling a professional repair service. Mr. Appliance has experienced service professionals for any cooktop repair job!

Schedule an appointment with your local team today.

This article is intended for general informational purposes only and may not be applicable to every situation. You are responsible for determining the proper course of action for your home and property. Mr. Appliance is not responsible for any damages that occur as a result of this blog content or your actions. For the most accurate guidance, contact the Mr. Appliance location nearest you for a comprehensive, on-site assessment.

Gas Stove Top Clicking FAQ

Integrity, dependability, and exceptional customer service are the qualities that have made Mr. Appliance the go-to resource for appliance maintenance and repairs. All independently owned and operated Mr. Appliance locations are committed to providing the top-notch service you expect from an industry leader. This commitment also includes using our expertise and years of experience to answer your appliance-related questions.

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about a gas stove not lighting but clicking.

Is a Gas Stove top Clicking Dangerous?

A gas stove clicking when off is usually not dangerous, but it can indicate a potential issue with the igniter system. While it's not an immediate safety concern, address the problem as soon as you can to prevent future complications and ensure the stove functions properly.

Why Is My Gas Stove Clicking When Off?

A gas stove top may click when off due to a faulty spark module. The igniter may continue to spark even after the gas supply is shut off, causing the clicking noise.

How Do You Fix a Gas Stove That Won’t Stop Clicking?

You can fix a blocked igniter by using a small item like a metal pin or a needle to dig the blockage out. An unaligned burner cap should be removed and replaced so that it sits squarely in the middle of the burner. Contact a service professional if these strategies don't resolve the issue.