Quick answer
If a gas stove burner will not click when you turn the knob, first check the range has power, since the igniters are electric: a tripped breaker or a GFCI outlet can cut it. If other burners click and one does not, the igniter is wet, dirty or cracked, or the switch behind that knob has failed. If no burner clicks, the spark module or its power is the likely cause. Until it is fixed, most cooktop burners can be lit carefully with a long match. HomeAdvisor puts typical oven or stove repairs at $130–$310. Call (888) 217-0236 to reach an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP; the line is answered 24/7.
Follow the short menu, then your 5-digit ZIP. The line goes quiet for a few seconds while it connects; stay on. If it does not connect, call once more: companies taking calls change minute to minute.
Written & reviewed by Marcus ReedIICRC WRT
Reviewed November 4, 2026· Next review May 2027
Gas cooktops use a small electric spark to light each burner. When you turn a knob and hear nothing, the spark is not being made, and the cause is either power, the one burner, or the part that makes the spark for all of them.
Start With Power
The igniters run on household power even though the burners burn gas.
- Is the clock or display lit?
- Check the breaker, and any GFCI outlet the range plugs into.
- After an outage, see stove not working after a power outage.
One Burner or All?
| What you hear | Likely cause |
|---|---|
| No burner clicks, display dark | No power to the range |
| No burner clicks, display lit | Spark module, or its wiring |
| One burner silent, others click | That burner's igniter or its knob switch |
| Weak click, no spark at one burner | Dirty, wet or cracked igniter |
| Clicks but will not light | See gas stove clicking but not lighting |
| Will not stop clicking | See stove igniter won't stop clicking |
Clean and Dry the Igniter
The igniter is the small white ceramic tip beside the burner. Spills, boil-overs and cleaning sprays coat it or soak it.
- 1Turn the burner off and let it cool.
- 2Wipe the igniter tip dry; clean it gently with a dry toothbrush.
- 3Remove the burner cap and head, clean the ports, dry everything, and put the cap back flat and centered.
- 4Let a wet cooktop dry for a few hours before testing.
A cracked ceramic igniter needs replacing.
Talk to an appliance repair technician
One call reaches an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP, answered 24/7.
Light It Safely Meanwhile
Most cooktop burners can be lit carefully with a long match or lighter: hold the flame at the burner first, then turn the knob to light. Do not try to light a gas oven by hand.
What a Repair Costs
HomeAdvisor puts typical oven or stove repairs at $130–$310. Igniters and switches are low-cost parts; a spark module costs a little more. See stove and cooktop repair.
The Call
Call when the range has power and one or all burners still will not spark. (888) 217-0236 is answered 24/7 and connects you to an appliance repair company taking calls in your ZIP for washers, dryers, ovens, stoves, cooktops and freezers. Follow the short menu, enter your 5-digit ZIP and stay on while it connects; if it does not connect, call once more.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is my gas stove not clicking?
NoPower to the range, a wet or dirty igniter, a cracked igniter, a failed switch behind the knob, or a failed spark module.
Why is one burner not clicking but the others are?
That burner's igniter is wet, dirty or cracked, or the switch behind its knob has failed.
Can I light a gas stove burner with a match?
Most cooktop burners can be lit carefully: hold a long match at the burner first, then turn the knob to light. Follow the manual. Do not try this with the oven.
Sources
Methodology: How we source and verify data · Report an error
Disclaimer: HearthDry is an independent educational resource. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional, legal, or insurance advice. Consult licensed professionals before making decisions about your property or insurance claims.
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