How to Change a Switch on a Gas Cooktop

A gas cooktop works with switches mounted below the surface to control the individual burners. Turning on the switch activates the ignition system, which heats to a temperature hot enough to open the valve that lights the burner. If a switch goes bad, the burner connected to it will not light. Accessing the switch involves disconnecting and raising the cooktop. Replacement switches are available at an appliance parts shop.

Screwdriver set
20-inch metal rod

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off all cooktop burners and wait for the appliance to cool.
- 2
  Unplug the power cord below the cooktop for the ignition system. Twist the handle clockwise in the gas valve to shut off the fuel to the cooktop.
- 3
  Remove the Phillips-head screws underneath the cabinet or island where the top front edge connects to the bottom of the cooktop. If there is a long metal plate under the screws, slide it off once the screws are out.
- 4
  Lift the top corners of the the cooktop's front edge to raise the appliance at an angle. Hold it up with the metal rod as a support.
- 5
  Detach the two wires on the switch to be replaced. Each wire slides off a metal blade on the switch.
- 6
  Remove the two screws securing the switch to the housing under the cooktop. Pull the part out of the bracket and remove.
- 7
  Place the new switch in position and push it into the U-shaped bracket. Secure the switch with the two screws.
- 8
  Slide the wires onto the contact blades on the switch.
- 9
  Remove the support rod and lower the appliance into place.
- 10
  Slide on the metal bar below the cooktop and secure it to the underside of the cabinet or island with the screws removed in Step 3.
- 11
  Open the gas line to the appliance and plug in the power cord for the ignition.

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