Stove problems tend to happen at the worst possible time — usually when you're trying to cook dinner. Here are the most common causes and what to do about them.
Gas Burner Not Igniting
The most common stove problem — you turn the knob and hear clicking, but the burner won't light.
Most likely causes:
- Clogged burner ports — food debris blocking the small holes around the burner cap. This is the most common cause by far.
- Wet igniter — moisture from a recent cleaning or boilover is preventing the spark
- Misaligned burner cap — the cap isn't sitting flat, disrupting the gas flow
- Faulty igniter — the igniter itself has stopped producing a spark
Fix it yourself: Remove the burner grate and cap. Soak in warm soapy water. Use a toothpick to clear each port hole. Dry completely before reinstalling.
Still not igniting after cleaning?
Book a Stove Repair
Gas Stove Clicking Constantly
If your stove clicks constantly even when all burners are off, moisture or food debris on the igniters is almost always the cause. Turn all knobs to off, remove the burner caps, and let everything dry completely.
Electric Burner Not Heating
For electric coil stoves:
- Burned out burner coil — the coil itself has failed
- Damaged burner socket — the socket the burner plugs into has burned
- Faulty infinite switch — the switch controlling burner temperature has failed
Quick test: Swap the non-working burner with one from another position. If it works in the new position, the original socket or switch is the problem.
Glass Cooktop Cracks or Scratches
A hairline crack in a glass cooktop is a safety issue — stop using that burner and call a technician. Do not use a cracked glass cooktop.
When to Call a Professional
Cleaning burner caps and ports — do it yourself. Igniter replacement, spark module replacement, infinite switch replacement, and any gas line work require a certified technician.
FixWell Appliance Repair serves all of San Francisco and Marin County — same-day appointments available.
FAQ
Why does my gas stove keep clicking when I'm not using it?
Moisture or food debris on the igniters. Clean and dry the entire burner area thoroughly.
Is it safe to use a gas burner if one burner isn't igniting?
The other burners are fine to use. But don't try to manually light the faulty burner with a match — gas can accumulate. Get it repaired.
How much does stove repair cost in San Francisco?
Most repairs range from $220–$360. Igniter replacement and burner cleaning are among the most common and affordable repairs.