Home Garden

GE Gas Range Will Not Start

When it comes to appliance manufacturers, GE has a long history and track record in the field. Its diverse line of gas ranges include free-standing and slide-in models that offer a variety of features, such as convection oven capabilities and a self-cleaning function. From time to time, though, a GE gas range may experience issues that prevent it from starting. Troubleshooting a gas range can be difficult because it may have a gas and electrical connection. However, understanding the most common reasons why your GE range will not ignite can help you resolve issues more quickly when they occur, so you can get back to cooking as soon as possible.
  1. Check Plug

    • While a GE gas range uses gas to heat the burners and oven, it also may require electricity to ignite the gas. If your range features an electric ignition and will not turn on, check to see if it is plugged securely into a functional, grounded outlet. Test the outlet by plugging a small lamp or appliance into it. If there is no power to the outlet, examine your home’s circuit breaker or fuse box to see if a circuit has been tripped or a fuse has been blown.

    Check Gas Shut-Off Valve

    • A GE gas range will not operate if it does not have a proper gas supply. If your range is plugged in properly but still does not turn on, check whether the gas shut-off valve has been closed inadvertently. To access the valve, slide your range away from the wall so you can reach the back of the appliance. The gas shut-off valve usually is found at the bottom of the range. The lever should be pulled to the open position, so adjust it if necessary.

    Check Burners for Clogs

    • If the burners on your GE gas range will not turn on, the ports on their sides may be clogged with grease and debris, preventing gas from flowing to them. Lift the burners from the stove top and examine them for clogs. Clear any obstructed openings gently using a toothpick, sewing needle, safety pin or twist tie. If there is cooked-on grease or spills on the burner heads, let them sit in a mixture of hot water and mild dishwashing detergent for approximately half an hour. Scrub off any remaining debris carefully with an old toothbrush.

    Check Oven Controls

    • If the GE gas range’s burners light but the oven will not turn on, its controls may not be set properly. Check your owner’s manual for the setting that you require, such as baking, roasting or broiling, to ensure that you have followed the proper procedure. If your range features electronic controls, verify that you have pressed the "Start" button after selecting your desired program. Your model also may have a Gas/Control Lockout feature, which allows you to lock your burners, oven and controls so they cannot be turned on. When the feature is engaged, your range will show "LOC ON" in its display. To turn it off, press the Gas/Control Lockout button for approximately 3 seconds until the range's display reads "LOC OFF."