Why Are My Surface Burners Not Igniting?

Columbine Appliance & Fireplaces is pleased to offer answers to frequently asked questions about home appliances to our valued customers in the greater Boulder ~ Ft. Collins area. One of questions about cooktops our Boulder ~ Ft. Collins appliance repair technicians are often asked relates to why surface burners on a cooktop may not be igniting. Listed below are some possible explanations and solutions.

Are burners wet from recent cleaning
If the burners of your cooktop are wet from recently being cleaned they may not ignite. Columbine Appliance & Fireplaces suggests blowing cool air on the burners using a hair dryer. If the ports of the burner(s) are clogged reference the cooktop's Use & Care Guide for sealed burner cleaning recommendations.

Are the ports on the burner(s) clogged
If the ports on the burner are clogged it is best to refer to the cooktop Use & Care Guide for sealed surface burner cleaning recommendations.

Are all burners failing to ignite? If all the burners on the cooktop are failing to ignite the gas connection should be inspected to see if it is correctly connected and not turned off. Have a qualified gas technician connect the cooktop to the gas line if necessary. If the cooktop is connected to the gas supply and gas availability has been verified contact Columbine Appliance & Fireplaces to schedule a service appointment.

Is a sparking sound present when attempting to ignite?
The ignitor may not be sparking to the cap on the burner is sparking sounds are heard when attempting to light the burner. After turning off the burner check to be certain the caps are set properly on the burner base. Also it is best not to switch caps from one burner to another as they may not spark properly. Each cap is designed for a specific burner.