Gas Hob Won’t Ignite: Causes, Checks & Fixes

Isolate electrical power and stop immediately if gas is smelled

Ovens and hobs combine mains electricity, high temperatures and, on gas appliances, combustible fuel. Do not dismantle while energised or continue using an appliance that trips, sparks, smells burnt or leaks gas.

MOST LIKELY CAUSES

Start with these

Electrode wet or dirty Spills can prevent a strong spark.

Burner cap misaligned Gas may not reach the spark correctly.

No electrical supply The ignition circuit may be dead.

Ignition module fault The spark generator may not operate.

◫ Symptom variations Match the exact heating, ignition or control pattern. ⌄

Gas flows but no spark
Spark clicks but burner does not light
Only one burner fails
Ignition keeps clicking
Burner lights with a match but not electronically

✓ Quick checks Simple checks before removing panels. ⌄

Note which function or zone fails.
Check the appliance lock, timer and selected mode.
Confirm the cooker isolator and breaker are on.
Look for visible element, seal or burner damage.
Isolate before touching internal parts.

If the issue is a setting or obstruction: operation should return immediately.

If there is tripping, gas smell or internal failure: stop and call the appropriate engineer.

1 Step 1 — Turn off the gas and let the hob cool Isolate the appliance before removing covers or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Do not continue repeated ignition attempts if gas is accumulating.

Success looks like: The area is safe to inspect.

Escalate when: If gas smell remains, ventilate and seek urgent help.

2 Step 2 — Clean and dry the burner parts Isolate the appliance before removing covers or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Remove loose caps, clean gently and refit in the correct position.

Success looks like: The spark reaches the gas outlet.

Escalate when: Damaged parts need replacement.

3 Step 3 — Check electrical power Isolate the appliance before removing covers or touching internal parts. ⌄

Process

Confirm the plug, fused spur or isolator is on.

Success looks like: Ignition power returns.

Escalate when: No power or repeated fuse failure needs electrical testing.

⌁ Common causes explained Why oven and hob faults develop. ⌄

A gas hob may fail to ignite because there is no spark, the burner cap is misaligned, the electrode is wet or dirty, the gas path is blocked or the ignition module has failed.

The affected function is the strongest clue. A single failed mode points toward one element, ring or switch, while a total loss of operation suggests supply, control or safety-device faults.

⌘ Advanced diagnostics Engineer checks and repair work. ⌄

Test spark electrode and lead.
Inspect ignition switch.
Check ignition module.
Verify gas flow and injector condition.
Perform gas-safety checks after repair.

▣ Parts that may need replacing Common components linked to this fault. ⌄

Spark electrode
Ignition lead
Ignition module
Burner cap
Ignition switch

! When to call an appliance engineer Conditions that should end basic troubleshooting. ⌄

The oven or hob trips the electrics.
There is a gas smell or unstable flame.
Internal electrical testing is required.
The appliance must be dismantled.
Controls, elements or wiring show heat damage.
The fault returns after basic checks.

? Frequently asked questions Common oven and hob questions. ⌄

Can one failed element stop the whole oven?

It depends on the model. Often one cooking mode fails while others still work.

Why does an oven trip only when hot?

Element insulation can break down as it heats, causing leakage to earth.

What should I do if I smell gas?

Turn off the appliance, avoid sparks or switches, ventilate the area and contact the appropriate gas emergency service or registered engineer.