How to Replace Your Oven Igniter: A Step-by-Step Guide
Replacing an oven igniter is a straightforward DIY project that can save you money. This article will guide you through the process of safely identifying, removing, and installing a new igniter, ultimately getting your oven back to working order, saving you from expensive repair bills.
Understanding the Oven Igniter
The oven igniter, a small but crucial component, is responsible for igniting the gas in your oven. Without a functioning igniter, your oven won’t heat up, rendering it useless. Understanding how it works and why it fails is essential for successful troubleshooting and replacement.
- What it does: The igniter is a resistance heating element. When you turn on your oven, electricity flows through the igniter, causing it to heat up. Once it reaches a certain temperature, it opens the gas valve, allowing gas to flow and ignite, creating the flame that heats your oven.
- Why it fails: Igniters typically fail due to age, wear and tear, or power surges. Over time, the internal filament can weaken and eventually break, preventing it from reaching the required temperature to ignite the gas.
- Symptoms of a bad igniter: Common symptoms include:
- Oven not heating up.
- Igniter glowing dimly or not at all.
- Clicking sound but no flame.
- Long delay before the oven ignites (longer than usual).
Benefits of DIY Igniter Replacement
Replacing your oven igniter yourself offers several advantages:
- Cost savings: You’ll avoid the cost of hiring a professional appliance repair technician, which can be significant. The igniter itself typically costs between $20 and $50.
- Convenience: You can complete the repair on your own schedule, without waiting for an appointment.
- Skill development: It’s a relatively simple repair that can give you confidence in tackling other minor appliance repairs in the future.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:
- New oven igniter (ensure it’s compatible with your oven model)
- Screwdriver (Phillips head and possibly flathead)
- Socket set or wrench set (for removing mounting screws)
- Multimeter (optional, for testing the old igniter)
- Wire stripper/crimper (if you need to connect wires)
- Wire connectors (if you need to connect wires)
- Gloves (for safety)
- Flashlight (for better visibility)
- Cell phone or camera (to take pictures of wiring connections)
Step-by-Step Replacement Process
Safety First! Before beginning any work, disconnect the oven from the power supply by unplugging it or turning off the circuit breaker.
- Identify the correct replacement igniter: This is crucial. Check your oven’s model number (usually located on a sticker inside the oven door or on the back panel) and search online for the correct replacement igniter.
- Access the igniter:
- Open the oven door.
- Remove the oven racks.
- Locate the broiler drawer (if applicable) and remove it.
- Locate the burner cover plate. It is usually held in place by one or two screws. Remove the screw(s) and set the cover aside.
- The igniter will be located near the gas burner.
- Disconnect the wiring:
- Carefully examine how the igniter is connected to the wiring harness.
- Before disconnecting anything, take a picture with your phone or camera. This will be invaluable when reconnecting the new igniter.
- Disconnect the wires, either by unplugging a connector or by unscrewing wire nuts.
- Remove the old igniter:
- The igniter is usually held in place by one or two screws.
- Remove the screws and carefully pull the igniter out of its housing.
- Install the new igniter:
- Position the new igniter in the same way as the old one.
- Secure it with the screws.
- Reconnect the wiring:
- Refer to the picture you took earlier to ensure you connect the wires correctly.
- Plug in the connector or secure the wires with wire nuts. Ensure the connections are tight and secure.
- Reassemble the oven:
- Replace the burner cover plate and screw(s).
- Replace the broiler drawer (if applicable).
- Replace the oven racks.
- Test the oven:
- Plug the oven back in or turn on the circuit breaker.
- Set the oven to bake and observe the igniter. It should glow brightly and ignite the gas within a few seconds.
- If the oven does not ignite, double-check the wiring connections and the igniter model number.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not disconnecting the power: This is a critical safety precaution.
- Using the wrong igniter: Compatibility is essential.
- Forgetting to take a picture of the wiring: This can lead to incorrect wiring and malfunction.
- Not tightening the connections: Loose connections can cause arcing and fire hazards.
- Forcing the igniter: Handle the igniter gently to avoid damaging it.
- Ignoring safety instructions: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety guidelines.
Oven Igniter Types
| Type | Description | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Flat Igniter | Rectangular shape; commonly used in older ovens. | Durable, slightly slower to ignite. |
| Round Igniter | Cylindrical shape; found in newer ovens. | Faster ignition, potentially less durable. |
| Glow Bar | A thin, rod-shaped igniter. | Very quick ignition, can be fragile. |
FAQs
Is it safe to replace an oven igniter myself?
Yes, if you follow the safety precautions and instructions carefully. Always disconnect the power before starting any work and double-check all connections. If you are not comfortable working with electricity or gas, it is best to hire a qualified appliance repair technician.
How do I know if my oven igniter is bad?
Common signs of a bad igniter include the oven not heating up, the igniter glowing dimly or not at all, clicking sounds without ignition, or a noticeable delay before the oven ignites.
Where can I buy a replacement igniter?
You can purchase replacement igniters from appliance parts stores, online retailers like Amazon, or directly from the appliance manufacturer. Ensure you have your oven’s model number to order the correct part.
How much does a new oven igniter cost?
The cost of a new oven igniter typically ranges from $20 to $50, depending on the type and brand.
What if my oven has a spark igniter instead of a glow igniter?
A spark igniter uses a high-voltage spark to ignite the gas. The replacement process is similar, but you’ll need to identify and disconnect the spark module and ignition wires instead of the igniter element.
Can I use a universal igniter?
While some universal igniters are available, it’s highly recommended to use a direct replacement igniter specifically designed for your oven model. Universal igniters may not provide the correct voltage or heat output, leading to performance issues or damage.
What if I can’t find the exact replacement igniter for my oven?
Contact the appliance manufacturer or a reputable appliance parts store. They may be able to help you find a suitable replacement or provide alternative options. Provide them with the exact model number of your oven.
What tools do I need to replace an oven igniter?
You’ll typically need a screwdriver (Phillips head and possibly flathead), a socket set or wrench set, a wire stripper/crimper (if you need to connect wires), wire connectors (if you need to connect wires), and gloves.
How long does it take to replace an oven igniter?
Replacing an oven igniter typically takes 30 to 60 minutes, depending on your experience and the complexity of the oven.
What if the new igniter doesn’t work after installation?
Double-check all wiring connections to ensure they are secure and correct. Verify that you have the correct replacement igniter for your oven model. If the problem persists, there may be another issue with your oven, such as a faulty gas valve or control board.
Do I need to turn off the gas before replacing the igniter?
While not always strictly necessary, it’s a good safety practice to turn off the gas supply to the oven before beginning any repairs. This can prevent accidental gas leaks. Locate the gas shut-off valve behind the oven or near the gas line.
Can I test the old igniter to see if it’s bad?
Yes, you can test the old igniter using a multimeter. Set the multimeter to the ohms setting and measure the resistance across the igniter terminals. A reading of infinity (open circuit) indicates a faulty igniter. A normal reading typically falls between 40 and 400 ohms, but varies by model.