How to Replace an Oven Igniter in a Gas Range

A broken igniter in your gas range may seem like a job for a professional, but replacing it is actually quite a simple process. Our guide breaks the task down into simple steps so you’ll be able to feel confident doing it yourself. Read on to find out what you’ll need, where to source the new part, and how to replace the igniter.

Note – although this is a relatively simple task, it does require some minor electrical work. If you are unsure about doing this type of work, you can always get a professional electrician, or get an experienced DIYer to help you if it is your first time. It’s always better to be safe than sorry when it comes to working with wiring!

Step 1: Confirm that the igniter is the cause of your problem

It’s easy to assume the igniter is the cause of your gas range not lighting, but there can be other faults that are similar. Rule out a gas issue by checking to see if you can hear and smell gas when the gas is turned on. Also ensure the igniter is not wet or dirty, as this can stop it from sparking. Once these issues are ruled out, move onto the next step. 

Ignitors can be tested for amperage draw but we recommend having a service technician make this check with live voltage to the oven.

Step 2: Purchase a replacement igniter

You can get a new igniter online or we can order one for you and have it shipped right to your door. Reach out with the model number for a price! Make sure the new one is compatible with your gas range, and ensure it is all ready to go before you disassemble your old one. 

Step 3: Get access to the broken igniter

Before you begin, take a look at your gas range’s user manual to find out where to locate the igniter and access it, as the manual may provide specific instructions tailored to your appliance model. Begin by carefully removing the cooking grates and burner caps, and then lift the burner heads off or unscrew them, depending on your range. 

To access the igniter, you may need to remove a panel, but this will depend on your oven’s model. Make sure you follow the disassembly process as outlined in your manual. 

Step 4: Remove the old igniter

The next step is disconnecting the broken igniter. Before you start, make sure the range is unplugged and the gas supply is turned off. This will help avoid any accidental ignition or other hazards occurring during the replacement process. 

The igniter will be connected to the range with a wiring harness, or with individual wires. Before you take it apart, make sure you take a picture of how the wires fit to the igniter so you can replicate it when you put the new one in. 

To disconnect the wires, gently pull them apart making sure you’re holding the connectors, not pulling on the wires themselves. You’ll want to avoid excess force as this can damage the wires. In some oven models, the connectors can be locked by a mechanism that needs releasing before they can be separated. 

Once the wires are disconnected, you’ll need to pull out the igniters. It might be held in place with screws or brackets, which you’ll need to undo with a screwdriver or a wrench. Keep the screws somewhere safe as you’ll need them when putting in the new igniter.

When you pull out the old igniter, handle it carefully – if it is cracked or broken there might be sharp edges. 

Step 5: Install the new igniter

Putting the new igniter in is the most delicate step in the process, and it is essential to follow the correct method and handle everything carefully to ensure successful installation. 

• Before installing the new igniter, check it over carefully for damage or faults. You should have already checked to make sure it is compatible with your range and that it meets the specs of the old igniter. 
• Place the new igniter in the same spot as the old one, making sure it is properly aligned. 
• Connect the wiring harness or individual wires to the new igniter. You can refer back to the picture you took to make sure everything is wired in the same way as it was with the old one. Push on the connectors gently but firmly to make sure there is a secure connection. If the connectors have a locking mechanism, make sure these are engaged. 
• Take the screws or brackets that secured the old igniter in place and use them to secure your new igniter. Make sure you tighten the screws so they are snug but not overtight – overtightening can cause damage to your new igniter. 
• After it is secured, double check the wiring connections and make sure the igniter is properly positioned and aligned. 

Step 6 – Test and reassemble your range

Once your new igniter is installed and properly connected, you’ll need to test it before reassembling the gas range. This means if there is a minor alignment issue, you won’t need to put everything back together and then take it apart again in order to tweak the alignment. 

Firstly, plug the oven back in and turn the gas supply on. Try turning on the burner to ensure that the igniter is working correctly. If it ignites as you would expect, then your replacement was successful and you can proceed with reassembling your range. 

Depending on how the range was taken apart, replace the cooktop and any panels you may have removed. Then reinstall the burner heads, burner caps and grates. With the igniter successfully tested and the range reassembled, your gas range is ready to use once again!