How to Repair Household Appliances - Problem 4: Gas oven doesn't heat—The igniter heats up

By the DIY experts of The Family Handyman Magazine

Photo 1: Unplug the old coils
Remove the two screws that secure the metal cover and lift off the cover.
Unplug the wires and lift out the old coils

Photo 2: Replace the coils
Drop the new coils over the metal posts and reconnect the wires. Reinstall the metal cover

If the igniter comes on and stays on but the burner doesn't light, the flame sensor is probably stuck in the closed position, preventing any gas from getting to the burner. A multimeter test won't help here, so just replace the flame sensor (Photo 6 in section above). Unplug the dryer for this repair.

Finally, if the igniter comes on for about 30 seconds and then shuts off and there’s no flame, it could indicate bad coils. The coils are electromagnets that open the gas valves when the igniter heats the flame sensor. Usually you can hear the coils click when the igniter comes on. If the igniter comes on and glows but you don’t hear a click and the burner won’t light, then replace the coils (Photos 1 and 2). For all these fixes, when you find the problem part, remove it and take it with you to the appliance parts store to buy the correct replacement. Then, after making the necessary repairs, reinstall the burner assembly. Firmly tighten the nut connecting the burner to the gas valve. Then open both gas valves and test for leaks at the burner/valve joint by swabbing on a solution of 1/2 teaspoon of dishwashing liquid to 1 cup of water. Watch for bubbles, which indicate a leak. If you see bubbles or smell gas, tighten the connection and retest. If this doesn’t solve the problem, shut off both valves and call the gas company or an appliance repair service for help.