You turn the knob, the hob clicks away, and nothing lights. Or it lights, but carries on clicking. Either is common, and often you can sort it out with a dry cloth. Because this is a gas appliance, though, it matters to know which jobs are safe to do and which are strictly for a Gas Safe registered engineer.
Don't use switches, lighters or flames. Open doors and windows, turn the gas off at the meter (unless it is in a cellar) and call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999, free, 24 hours, from outside the property.
Why a gas hob clicks but won't light
Each burner has a spark ignition (a small ceramic electrode next to the burner) that fires when you press and turn the knob. For the flame to light, three things need to line up: the spark, the gas and a clean burner. If one of them isn't right, you get clicks and no flame.
1. A wet or dirty burner cap
This is the number one cause, especially after cleaning or a boil-over. Water on the cap or burner stops the gas igniting. Fix: let the hob cool, lift off the cap and ring, dry them thoroughly (a hairdryer on a low setting helps), and leave them to dry before refitting.
2. A cap that isn't seated properly
If a cap has been put back off-centre, the gas flows unevenly and the spark misses it. Fix: refit the cap and ring so that they sit flat and central, usually with small lugs that slot into place.
3. Blocked burner ports
Food and grease clog the small gas ports around the burner, so the flame is weak, uneven or won't light. Fix: clean the ports with a soft brush or a wooden toothpick when the hob is cool. Don't use metal pins that could damage the burner.
4. A dirty ignition electrode
Grease on the little ceramic spark plug weakens the spark. Fix: wipe it gently with a dry cotton bud once the hob is cool and switched off.
Why it keeps clicking after it has lit
- Moisture on the electrode. It sparks continuously because it senses the damp. Let it dry out.
- A stuck ignition button or knob. If a knob is jammed in, the ignition keeps firing. Check nothing is pressing it.
- A spill under the hob top. Liquid can get into the switch and cause it to click on its own. Call us if you think this has happened.
What not to do
Don't take apart gas taps, change nozzles or injectors, adjust the gas supply or work on pipework. Anyone you pay to work on gas appliances in your home must be Gas Safe registered, and the Gas Safe Register advises against doing gas work yourself.
Signs it needs an engineer
- One burner still won't light after cleaning and drying
- The clicking continues with the burner lit, or when no knob is pressed
- The flame is yellow or orange instead of blue, or looks limp. The Gas Safe Register lists this among the signs of an unsafe appliance.
- The flame dies as soon as you release the knob
- A knob that is stiff, loose or doesn't turn the gas off
- Any smell of gas
Our Gas Safe registered engineers (number 596103) repair gas hobs, cookers and ovens across Caerphilly and the surrounding valleys. Repairs start from £70 + VAT, with a 90-day guarantee. See our hob repair page or read our wider guide to common hob problems.
Call us on 029 2088 5355 for a quote, or book online. Same-day or next-day where possible, repairs from £70 + VAT, and a 90-day guarantee on every repair.
Book a repair onlineFrequently asked questions
Why does my gas hob click but not light?
The ignition is sparking, but the gas isn't catching. The usual causes are a wet or dirty burner cap, blocked burner ports or a burner cap that is out of position. Dry and clean the parts and refit them carefully. If it still won't light, the ignition or gas tap needs an engineer.
Why does my gas hob keep clicking after it has lit?
Usually moisture or food on the ignition electrode, or a stuck ignition button. Let the hob dry, clean around the burner and check the knob isn't being pressed in. If it carries on, it needs a check.
Can I light a gas hob with a match if the ignition fails?
Many people do, but if the ignition is failing, it is a sign that something needs attention. If you have any doubts about the flame, or you smell gas, don't use the hob and get it checked.
Is a clicking gas hob dangerous?
The clicking itself is only the spark. The concern is unburned gas if a burner isn't lighting, so switch off the burner, open a window and let the gas clear. If you smell gas, call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999.
