Gas burner doesn't work

Gas burners serve as the primary source of heat in a variety of home appliances: water heaters, gas dryers, and gas cooktops and ovens, and-of course-- furnaces and boilers. When the burner fails, most gas appliances are designed to stop working altogether to prevent a gas leak.

As a rule, it's best to have gas burner problems fixed by your gas utility service person or a qualified heating technician, but there are a few steps you can take to avoid paying for a service call.

Most appliances that utilize gas burners need electrical power in order to operate. If the burner doesn't work at all:

1) Be sure the circuit breaker serving the appliance is "On" or that its fuse has not blown. Check both the main electrical panel and any secondary sub-panels that supply power to the furnace or appliance. If necessary, reset the circuit breaker or replace the fuse. If the circuit blows again, there is probably a short in the electrical system. Call an electrician or furnace repair technician or see HERE for electrical repairs.

2) Be sure the appliance's switch is turned on and that the appliance is plugged in (when applicable).

3) Be sure the appliance's power switch is turned on. This may be on the appliance or, in the case of a gas furnace, next to or inside the furnace cabinet. If it isn't on, turn it on and wait a few minutes.

4) Be sure the thermostat or heat dial is set properly.

5) If the appliance has a pilot light, be sure it's working.

6) If none of this works, call your gas utility or an appliance service technician.

Still having trouble with your gas burner?

Call the manufacterer