Replacing a Kenmore gas oven igniter is a fairly straightforward task that can be completed in about 30 minutes. By following these simple steps, you can save yourself the cost of calling a repair technician.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
- New Kenmore gas oven igniter
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Wire stripper
- Electrical tape
Step 1: Safety First
Before you begin, be sure to turn off the gas supply to your oven and unplug it from the electrical outlet.
Step 2: Remove the Oven Door
Open the oven door and locate the two screws that hold the top hinge in place. Remove the screws and lift the door off the oven.
Step 3: Remove the Oven Bottom Panel
Locate the screws that hold the bottom panel of the oven in place. Remove the screws and carefully lift the panel off.
Step 4: Locate the Igniter
The igniter is typically located at the bottom of the oven cavity, near the gas burner. It is a small, metal tube with a wire connected to it.
Step 5: Disconnect the Igniter
Use a screwdriver to loosen the screw that holds the wire to the igniter. Then, gently pull the wire off the igniter.
Step 6: Remove the Igniter
Use a pair of pliers to gently twist the igniter back and forth until it comes loose. Be careful not to damage the oven cavity.
Step 7: Install the New Igniter
Insert the new igniter into the oven cavity. Make sure that the wire is facing the correct direction.
Step 8: Connect the Igniter
Connect the wire to the igniter and tighten the screw.
Step 9: Reinstall the Oven Bottom Panel
Carefully place the oven bottom panel back on the oven and secure it with the screws.
Step 10: Reinstall the Oven Door
Lift the oven door back onto the oven and secure it with the screws.
Step 11: Test the Igniter
Turn on the gas supply to your oven and plug it back into the electrical outlet. Open the oven door and press the ignite button. The igniter should spark and ignite the gas burner.
Tips for Replacing a Kenmore Gas Oven Igniter
- If you are not comfortable working with electricity, it is best to call a qualified repair technician.
- Be sure to disconnect the power to your oven before you begin working on it.
- Use caution when removing the igniter, as it can be sharp.
- If you are having trouble removing the igniter, you can use a pair of pliers to gently twist it back and forth until it comes loose.
- Be sure to connect the wire to the igniter in the correct direction.
- If the igniter does not spark when you press the ignite button, check the wire connections and make sure that the power is turned on.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
- The igniter does not spark. Check the wire connections and make sure that the power is turned on. If the igniter is still not sparking, it may need to be replaced.
- The igniter sparks but does not ignite the gas. Make sure that the gas supply is turned on. If the gas is on and the igniter is sparking, the gas burner may be clogged. You can try cleaning the burner with a wire brush.
- The igniter sparks and ignites the gas, but the flame goes out. The flame may be going out because the gas pressure is too low. You can adjust the gas pressure by turning the gas valve on the oven.
What You Need to Know
Q: How often should I replace my Kenmore gas oven igniter?
A: The igniter should last for several years. However, if you notice that it is not sparking or is not igniting the gas, it may need to be replaced.
Q: Can I replace the igniter myself?
A: Yes, you can replace the igniter yourself. However, if you are not comfortable working with electricity, it is best to call a qualified repair technician.
Q: How much does it cost to replace a Kenmore gas oven igniter?
A: The cost of a new Kenmore gas oven igniter is typically between $20 and $40. The cost of labor to replace the igniter will vary depending on the repair technician.
