Gas Burner Will Not Light
A gas burner that is slow (or fails to light) is a common complaint. Almost always the problem is caused by dirt. Few pilot light designs remain in operation so we will skip them- the theory is the same. All burners ignite from a small electrode that flashes a spark from it to ground.
The spark comes from the spark module, usually in the rear console, by way of a high voltage wire. Spark modules fail in peculiar ways. Sometimes only half will go bad while the other part still functions. In most cases, not one but all burner electrodes spark at once; of course only one has the gas on, so only one will light up. Customers are seldom aware that all four are sparking simultaneously.
A crack in the electrode will allow the spark to jump incorrectly to ground and not near ignite the gas. Dampness or damage (by mice for instance) to the high voltage wire will also result in grounding. Threading the replacement electrode wire thru the range can be a difficult chore. Tie a string to the old one as you remove it and use the string to pull the new wire through or pull the new one through with the old one.
Fishing an Electrode Wire
Near the electrode is a small hole emitting gas. The spark ignites the gas and the flame jumps to an ajoining set of holes, much like a fuse, until it arrives at the main burner ring. This happens in a fraction of a second. However, if any of the holes in this series are clogged, the flame will not jump to the main burner.
Dirty Electrode
It may take more than several seconds for enough gas to accumulate and poof it lights and scares the user. Ah Ha. A service call results. Any spillage or soap left over from too much cleaning will cause problems. A small pin can be used to free up the holes. Also the burners can be boiled or run through the dishwasher. If the holes or slots are not perfect they will not light smoothly. It may be necessary to get new burners.
Cleaning a Dirty Burner