Gas Cooktop Repair: Common Issues and How to Fix Them

When your gas cooktop, a kitchen appliance that uses natural gas or propane to generate heat for cooking. Also known as gas hob, it stops working, it’s rarely a mystery—usually it’s something simple like a clogged burner, a dirty igniter, or a worn-out thermocouple. Most people assume they need a technician right away, but 8 out of 10 gas cooktop repair issues can be fixed with a toothbrush, a needle, and five minutes of your time. You don’t need special tools or training. Just know what to look for.

The gas hob ignition system, the component that sparks to light the gas flame is the most common culprit. Over time, grease, food crumbs, and moisture build up around the electrodes, blocking the spark. If you hear clicking but no flame, clean the igniter with a dry toothbrush or a pin to clear the holes. Same goes for the gas burner ports, tiny holes around the burner rim that release gas. If they’re clogged, the flame will be weak, uneven, or nonexistent. A paper clip works better than a toothpick for this. Don’t use metal tools that could scratch the surface—plastic picks or old toothbrushes are safer.

Another frequent problem is the thermocouple, a safety device that senses if the flame is lit and shuts off gas if it’s not. If your burner lights but goes out after a few seconds, the thermocouple is likely too dirty or misaligned. It’s a small metal rod next to the burner. Gently wipe it with fine sandpaper, then make sure it’s positioned right in the flame’s path. If it’s bent, carefully bend it back. No need to replace it unless it’s cracked or charred.

Some people blame the gas supply when their cooktop fails, but the issue is almost always local. Check the shut-off valve under the sink or behind the appliance—sometimes it gets turned slightly closed. If other gas appliances in your home are working fine, your cooktop isn’t starved for fuel. It’s just stuck. And if you smell gas? Don’t try to fix it. Turn off the main valve, open windows, and call a professional immediately. Safety comes first.

What you’ll find below are real fixes from actual repairs done in homes around Weymouth. No theory. No guesswork. Just what breaks, why it breaks, and how to fix it without spending hundreds on a service call. From stubborn burners that won’t light to cooktops that click endlessly, these posts cover every common gas cooktop repair scenario you’re likely to face. Some you can handle today. Others might mean it’s time to consider a replacement. Either way, you’ll know exactly where you stand.