Oven won't light

Common reasons your oven won't light

The most common reasons your oven won't light are a defective electronic control board, defective control panel or a cracked igniter.

  • 63%

    63% of the time it's the
    Electronic Control Board

  • 14%

    14% of the time it's the
    Control Panel

  • 9%

    9% of the time it's the
    Igniter

  • 14%

    14% of the time it's the
    Something else

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Common oven repair parts you may need

Replacing one of these oven parts may fix your problem.

Electronic Control Board Replacement

When the electronic control board of an oven becomes inoperative, it can result in a range of issues, including power loss, insufficient heating, or the inability to shut off the oven. This is because the control board acts as the central processor of the oven, managing critical functions such as temperature control, fan operation, cooking duration, and self-cleaning cycles. A malfunctioning board can disrupt communication between various oven components, leading to problems such as failure to secure the oven door latch or the emission of unusual noises and odors. Considering its potential impact on multiple components, it's prudent to have a Sears Home Services professional assess the board for any defects that may necessitate replacement.

Control Panel Replacement

A faulty oven control panel can manifest in different symptoms that impact the appliance's operation. It may not respond to commands, neglecting to recognize inputs or modify oven modes and temperature settings. The display might exhibit erratic readings or go completely blank. Furthermore, a faulty control panel might cause problems with the oven's heating, leading to uneven cooking, failure to attain the desired temperature, or an inability to heat at all.

Igniter Replacement

If an oven igniter is defective, it can hinder a burner from igniting, leading to a lack of heat from the bake or broil burners in the oven. A malfunctioning igniter could also make it challenging to light the burner, necessitating multiple attempts for ignition. The igniter might produce a clicking sound without successfully igniting the gas, signaling a malfunction. Additionally, in some instances, the igniter may not generate any visible spark at all. Igniter failure can result in delayed ignition, noticeable by a delay between turning the knob and the burner lighting.

What to expect when you experience a oven won't light issue

How to fix a won't light problem

Resolving most won't light problems usually involves replacing the electronic control board, control panel or igniter. However, other components could be at fault, so thorough troubleshooting and an accurate diagnosis are key to fixing the problem.

Recommendations from Sears Home Services for an oven that won't light

If the oven fails to ignite, there could be various underlying reasons. To prevent unnecessary part replacements, we suggest consulting a Sears Home Services professional for diagnostic tests to pinpoint the root cause. Our technicians possess extensive experience in diagnosing all kinds of oven malfunctions.

What to be mindful of with an oven won't light diagnosis

Identifying malfunctions in modern appliances proves daunting without the right expertise. Without employing correct diagnostic methods, resolving oven issues usually involves trial-and-error part replacements. The complexity of electronic parts in appliances, especially those developed in the last decade, adds to the difficulty of testing. Consequently, DIY repairs on contemporary appliance models are growing increasingly intricate.

Gas ovens need smooth ignition, so a blocked burner or dead igniter stops flames from appearing. That means you’re stuck with undercooked meals or safety concerns from unburned gas. Rather than forcing manual lights, rely on gas stove service near me to address line blockages or spark module faults. A robust ignition system lets you cook confidently without fear of lingering gas.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why won’t my oven light?
Check the igniter, gas supply, and control settings for any issues.
Could a faulty igniter be preventing my oven from lighting?
Yes, a broken igniter can prevent the gas from lighting and the oven from heating.
How do I fix an oven that won’t light?
Inspect the igniter, check the gas supply, and ensure the control settings are correct.
What causes an oven not to light?
A defective igniter, lack of gas supply, or incorrect settings can prevent the oven from lighting.

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Glossary Terms

A thermocouple is a sensor used for measuring temperature, consisting of two different metal wires joined at one end, which generate a voltage proportional to temperature changes.

An oven bag is a heat-resistant, nylon or polyester bag designed for cooking a wide variety of foods in the oven, ensuring moist and flavorful meals by trapping moisture and flavor inside.

An oven rack is a removable shelving unit inside an oven that holds cookware, allowing air to circulate around the food for even cooking and baking.

A dishwasher turbidity sensor is an advanced feature that measures the level of food particles and debris in the water, allowing the dishwasher to adjust the wash cycle length and water usage for optimal cleaning efficiency.