Igniter Replacement – What You Need to Know Before You Start

When dealing with igniter replacement, the process of removing a faulty ignition component and installing a new one in a cooking appliance. Also called an ignitor swap, it’s a common fix for ovens and stoves that won’t light. Below you’ll see why the right part matters, what tools help, and how to keep things safe.

The heart of many electric ovens is the Oven Igniter, a heating element that glows red to trigger the gas valve and start the bake cycle. When it fails, the oven stays cold and you’ll hear a clicking sound with no flame. Oven igniters usually run on 120 V and last 3‑5 years under normal use. Knowing its voltage rating and physical size helps you pick a compatible replacement without guessing.

Gas cooktops use a Gas Stove Igniter, a spark‑producing electrode that lights the burners when you turn the knob. If the spark is weak or the electrode is cracked, you’ll notice delayed lighting or a clicking noise that never sparks. Most stovetop igniters are ceramic or metal caps mounted near the burner. Spotting corrosion or carbon buildup early can save you from a full‑board replacement later.

Both oven and stove igniters are part of a broader Spark Ignition System, the network of electrodes, transformers and control modules that create the spark needed to ignite gas. The system’s health hinges on clean contacts, proper voltage, and a functional control module. When any link breaks, you’ll see symptoms like no spark, intermittent flame or complete failure to start. Understanding how the spark ignition system works makes troubleshooting quicker and avoids unnecessary part swaps.

Before you reach for a new igniter, safety should be your first step. Turn off power at the breaker and shut off the gas supply. Wear insulated gloves and have a multimeter ready to confirm no voltage. A quick continuity test tells you if the old igniter is dead – set the meter to ohms, touch the leads to the igniter terminals, and look for a reading or infinity. If the test shows an open circuit, replacement is confirmed.

Typical signs that you need an igniter replacement include: the oven or stove won’t light after several attempts, a constant clicking sound, a faint glow that never reaches ignition temperature, or an error code on a digital control panel. These clues point to a failing igniter rather than a gas valve problem. Once you’ve identified the culprit, note the part number printed on the old unit; manufacturers usually print it on a sticker or etched on the metal.

DIY igniter replacement is doable for most homeowners with basic tools: a screwdriver set, a nut driver, a multimeter, and sometimes a wrench for gas lines. The steps are usually: remove the access panel, disconnect the old igniter, install the new one, reconnect wiring, reassemble, and test. If you’re uncomfortable working with gas or electrical connections, or if the appliance is still under warranty, calling a professional is smarter. A qualified technician can also check the ignition control module and ensure the gas valve seals properly, saving you repeat visits.

Now that you’ve got the basics of igniter replacement, you’ll find a range of articles below that dive deeper into each appliance type, walk through testing procedures, compare DIY costs vs professional service, and share safety checklists. Whether you’re fixing a stubborn oven, a misbehaving stovetop, or just curious about how spark ignition works, the posts ahead give practical tips and step‑by‑step guidance to keep your kitchen running smoothly.