WHY IS MY STOVE BURNER NOT WORKING?
When you’re getting ready to cook on your stove, it can be frustrating to notice one or more burners not working properly. There are a few possible causes for gas or electric cooktop burner malfunctions, and understanding the cause can help you find the right solution.
Use this guide to learn more about how cooktops work, possible causes of burners not working and whether to repair or replace your appliance.
HOW DO STOVE BURNERS WORK?
The function of your cooktop varies by its fuel type. Gas stoves work by lighting a flame using gas and an electric ignitor, while electric stoves use exposed or covered coils heated by electric currents. Induction electric cooktops are activated by electromagnetic energy.
Gas or electric cooktops should turn on when you activate the controls on the front or top of the appliance.
9 possible cooktop burner problems
If your cooktop isn’t turning on, investigate the possible causes to help determine the best solution. It is always recommended to consult your product manual whenever you experience problems with your cooktop.
1. INCORRECTLY SET CONTROLS
When starting an electric or gas cooktop with knobs, you may need to push the knob in before turning it to your desired setting. If your cooktop isn’t turning on, check that you have correctly pushed and turned the knob. The knobs on gas ranges need to be turned to “ignite” before adjusting the level of the flame.
2. IMPROPERLY INSTALLED COILS
On electric cooktops, the coils need to be installed exactly following the manufacturer’s instructions to function. A coil that is inserted improperly will not function correctly.
If you have an exposed coil cooktop, consult your owner’s manual for installation instructions. Glass-ceramic cooktops may require the help of a licensed technician to further inspect this issue.
3. TRIPPED CIRCUIT BREAKER
Both gas and electric cooktops require an electric connection to power the burners. You may have tripped the circuit breaker if you’ve overloaded an outlet. Check the main power supply for your kitchen to verify that the fuse or circuit breaker is functioning.
4. WRONG KNOB USED
When you’re getting dinner started in a rush, you may be using one burner knob thinking it’s another and assuming your chosen burner is not working. If your cooktop isn’t turning on, double-check that you are using the corresponding knob for your desired burner.
5. CONTROL LOCK IS ON
Some cooktops offer a Control Lock feature that prevents unintended use of the burners. If you notice one or more burners not turning on, check the control panel to see if Control Lock has been selected. If you’re unsure how to check for the Control Lock button, consult your product manual.
6. POWER CORD IS UNPLUGGED
Sometimes, the simplest solution is the right one. If your gas or electric cooktop is not plugged into a grounded three or four-prong outlet, it will not operate.
The issue could also be with the outlet’s voltage. Electric cooktops typically require a 240-volt outlet and gas stoves usually need a 120-volt outlet. If the power outlet that you’ve plugged your cooktop into does not have the required voltage, you may need to choose a new outlet or schedule a service with a licensed electrician to double check and address the issue.
7. POOR GAS CONNECTION
Gas cooktops require a properly installed gas connection to function. Verify that the main gas valve is in the ON position. If you recently installed a gas cooktop and it isn’t turning on, there may be air in the gas line, causing a delay in the release of gas to the burner. Turn one of the burners on to release any potential air from the gas line.
If you’re still not sure about your gas connection, consult a professional to safely handle it.
8. BURNER MAY BE WET
If your gas stovetop is making a clicking noise but is not igniting the burner flame, there may be excess liquid in or on the burner. This can be caused by a pot that has boiled over or grease that has splattered outside the pan. Turn off all the burners and remove the grate and burner cap to let it air out completely.
9. POWER NEEDS TO BE RESET
After you’ve investigated all other possible causes, consider resetting the cooktop by turning off the circuit breaker for one minute, then power on the circuit breaker. If nothing improves, you may need to consult a professional to replace the fuse.
REPAIR OR REPLACE?
Deciding whether you should repair or replace your cooktop depends on the cause of the malfunction and the age of your appliance. Some repairs can be simple and cost-effective. If you have an old cooktop, it may be time to upgrade your stovetop if the repair cost is near the cost of a new appliance.
If you have a Maytag® cooktop, you can easily schedule service with a licensed technician to help you decide whether a repair or a replacement is right for you.
EXPLORE MAYTAG® COOKTOPS
Whether you’re replacing an older model or simply giving your kitchen an upgrade, Maytag® cooktops are designed for control, durability and performance. Browse gas and electric options with features on select models that bring the heat, like the Power Simmer Dual Stack Burner, Dual-Choice™ Element or Reversible Grill and Griddle that lets you grill, sear, flip and griddle.
LEARN MORE ABOUT YOUR KITCHEN APPLIANCES WITH MAYTAG BRAND
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