Gas stove won't light: what to do?

A gas stove that won't light can be frustrating, but it can also be a warning sign of a gas leak or a faulty appliance. Your first priority is to rule out danger before you try to fix anything.

What is happening

Gas stoves light either by a standing pilot light or an electronic igniter. If the burner does not light, the cause could be a closed gas valve, a dirty or wet burner, a blocked jet, a faulty igniter, or a problem with the gas supply. In some cases, unburned gas may be escaping into the room, which is a serious hazard.

Emergency warning

If you smell gas, hear a hissing sound, or feel dizzy or nauseous, treat it as an emergency. Do not turn any electrical switches on or off, do not use a phone inside the building, and do not light a flame. Leave the building immediately and call your local gas emergency service or emergency services from a safe distance. Do not re-enter until you are told it is safe.

What to do first (if you do not smell gas)

1. Turn off the burner. Make sure the knob is in the off position.
2. Check the gas supply. Confirm that the main gas valve to the stove is open. If you have a gas cylinder, check that it is not empty.
3. Wait a few minutes. Let any unburned gas dissipate before trying again.
4. Clean and dry the burner. Remove the burner cap and head. Check for food debris, moisture, or blockages in the gas ports. Dry thoroughly before reassembling.
5. Try to light it again. If your stove has a pilot light, follow the manufacturer's instructions to relight it. For electronic ignition, turn the knob and listen for the clicking sound.

What NOT to do

• Do not keep trying to light the burner repeatedly. If it does not light after a couple of attempts, stop. Repeated attempts can release unburned gas into the room.
• Do not use a match or lighter to light a burner that is not designed for manual lighting. Follow the manufacturer's instructions only.
• Do not ignore a gas smell. Even a faint smell should be treated seriously.
• Do not attempt to repair the stove yourself beyond basic cleaning and checking the gas supply. Gas appliances should be serviced by a qualified technician.

When to call for help

Call a qualified gas appliance technician if:

• The stove still won't light after basic checks.
• You notice a gas smell at any time.
• The igniter does not click or spark.
• The flame is weak, yellow, or uneven.
• You suspect a blocked jet or a faulty gas valve.

If you smell gas, call your gas emergency service immediately, not a technician.

What to monitor

After a successful lighting, check that the flame is blue and steady. A yellow or orange flame may indicate incomplete combustion or a dirty burner. If the flame is uneven or noisy, turn off the burner and clean the ports. If the problem persists, call a technician.

How to prevent it

• Clean the burners regularly to prevent blockages.
• Keep the burner area dry.
• Have your gas stove serviced periodically by a qualified technician.
• Install a gas detector if you rely on gas appliances.

This is general information and not a substitute for professional advice. In an emergency, call your local emergency services.