A gas cooktop is one of the most important kitchen appliances in your kitchen. You depend on it to prepare and serve meals for your family. If it were to develop some problems, it would be hard for you not to panic and try calling a cooktops repair technician. So, let’s take a look at some common gas cooktop problems and how you can fix them.
Gas Cooktop Won’t Light
The gas burner not lighting up is a common problem amongst gas cooktops. Although this problem is relatively common in older models of the appliance, it could also happen to new units. The reason is that a gas burner not lighting up could be due to several reasons.
First, observe and notice when trying to turn on the burner. Usually, you would hear a clicking sound and the smell of gas. If you hear a clicking noise and the burner does not light up, it means the problem is probably with the gas flow.
On the other hand, if you smell some gas but do not hear a clicking noise, it means there could be an issue with the ignition switch. To fix the issue, check the main gas source and access the burner to inspect any loose wires or dust and dirt accumulation. If that doesn’t fix the issue, you might need to replace the igniter.
Gas Cooktop Is Heating Slowly
If you observe that your gas cooktop is heating slowly, you will need to fix the issue as soon as possible, as you will not be able to prepare meals properly. A slow-heating gas cooktop usually points towards burner openings that are clogged. As a result, the flames will struggle to exit the burner openings. This issue can be fixed easily by thoroughly cleaning your cooktop.
To fix the issue, simply turn off and disconnect the cooktop. Next, remove the grates and burner caps and soak them in warm water and rinse and wash properly. Use a stiff brush to remove stubborn accumulation and a toothpick to open the burner holes. You can also use baking soda and vinegar solution to make the grates and burner caps shine like new.
Gas Cooktop Keeps Clicking
As mentioned earlier, while lighting your gas cooktop, you should hear a clicking noise. Once the burner turns on, the clicking noise will go away. However, in some cases, the clicking noise continues to the point where it does not allow the burner to light up. This problem is usually a result of something blocking the burner.
Inspect to ensure that the burner cap is in place and the holes aren’t clogged with dust and debris. It could also be that excess moisture is trapped in the cooktop. If that is the case, try pointing a fan at the gas cooktop to soak up the extra water or grease that may have spilled.
The Pilot Light Is Out
Some gas cooktops come with a pilot light that helps ignite the burners. The pilot light feature is usually present on older and luxury models. It’s a flame that remains lit when the burner is off. It is this tiny flame that helps light up the gas ring.
However, the problem with cooktops featuring pilot lights is that if they were to malfunction, the burner won’t light. Problems related to pilot lights are very common around the world and there is nothing unusual if you encounter the same.
Pilot lights on newer models are fortunately protected and difficult to blow out in most cases.
Call A Professional
If nothing else works, it means you are looking at a much more complicated problem. At this point, you should not play around with the cooktop and consult a technician. Sometimes, the fix is easy but risky. Therefore, it is better to spend some money rather than experimenting with something that might cause serious injuries.
A professional will thoroughly inspect the unit and fix the root cause of the problem so that you do not experience such troubles down the road.
Final Word
In the end, gas cooktops can develop all sorts of problems. However, what is important is that you should be aware of the basic troubleshooting tips. And if that does not help you solve the problem, you will need to consult appliance repair Fairfax services.
