Oven won't turn on. Don't see a pilot light on.

Your oven does not have a pilot light!!


Your igniter is probably bad.




Most gas oven systems today are 'electronic ignition', and use a 'glowbar' type igniter electrically in series with an oven valve.


Electrical current passing through the ignitor operates a small heater that 'warps' an internal piece of bimetal to open the gas valve. As long as the burner flame continues to heat the igniter, its electrical resistance remains low enough to keep the valve turned on. If, for any reason, the flame is extinguished, the igniter's resistance increases and the valve turns off the gas to the burner.
While the valves are very reliable, the igniters have become the most common parts failure on these systems. Which is to be expected, I guess; they're doing their job in a gas flame!


Igniters come in two basic types, 'flat' and 'round', and they can't be interchanged.


Each type operates at a particular amperage level, and is matched to the type gas valve it operates. The stainless steel 'cages' that protect them usually correspond to their actual shape, which helps you figure out which one yours uses. And to make it even easier, there's pretty much only One round one that fits them all. Flat ones vary only in the length of the ceramic block to which they're mounted. Electrically they're nearly all the same.


Easiest way to test is just look in oven and see if you can see an orange glow coming from the back of the burner. If no glow then you need to replace the igniter. If you are at all handy nad have basic tool you can do the job
yourself.


Turn off power and gas. The igniter is attached with one or two screws or small bolts and two wires that are plugged into a connector. You can take the old one to any appliance store (or Sears Parts) and get a new one. They are delicate and easy to break so handle with care. They cost between $35-60.


Good luck. J


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