A gas oven that will not light is a safety issue first and a repair second. Know what to check safely, and when to leave it alone and call.
Call (539) 281-3311All troubleshooting guidesSafe checks first
- Check there is power. Most gas ovens use an electric igniter, so a tripped breaker or a power outage can stop the oven from lighting.
- Check the clock and controls. Some ovens will not run if the control is locked or in a sabbath or demo mode.
- See whether the cooktop burners light. If they do, the gas supply is working and the oven igniter or safety valve is more likely at fault.
- Make sure nothing is blocking the oven bottom or the burner area.
- Check that the oven door closes fully.
What usually causes it
- A weak igniter. It glows but cannot draw enough current to open the safety valve.
- A failed oven safety valve.
- A failed control board or temperature sensor.
- A blocked burner or flame spreader.
- A gas supply problem, such as the shutoff valve being closed.
When to call
- The igniter glows for several minutes but the burner never lights.
- You smell gas at any time.
- The oven lights with a loud whoomp or the flame looks uneven.
- Anything involving the gas line, the valve or the igniter. Gas work needs a qualified technician.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my gas oven glow but not light?
This usually means a weak igniter. It heats up but does not draw enough current to open the gas valve, so the oven never lights.
Can I light my gas oven with a match?
Most modern ovens have electronic igniters and a safety valve. Do not try to light them manually unless the manual says it is safe, and never if you smell gas.
Why will my gas oven not light but the stove works?
The gas supply is fine, so the oven igniter, safety valve or control is the likely cause.
Is it worth repairing a gas oven that will not light?
Igniter repairs are usually reasonable. See our repair or replace guide for how to decide.
Related guides
Oven still will not light?
Call and tell us what the igniter and burner do. We will tell you what to expect before anyone comes out.
Call (539) 281-3311Written by the ElectricAppliance team, 2351 W Vancouver St, Broken Arrow, OK. Last updated 2026-10-29. This page is general information, not a quote. Prices and timing depend on the appliance, the part and the fault, so call for a diagnosis.