My Frigidaire Gas Stove Takes Forever to Preheat

Stove Type

• The kind of Frigidaire gas stove determines the best solution to the heating issue. Even though the stove is gas-powered, its igniter is either a spark igniter, which is electrically ignited, or a standing pilot, which is gas-fed. The problem, however, may be a loose connection; for example, all electric power cords must have a tight connection. If the pilot light's flame is out, then that probably is the problem.

Dirty or Broken Igniter

• Chances are good that the root of the preheating problem lies with the igniter. Often a very thorough cleaning solves the problem, but it may need replacement. When all parts of the appliance are off and cool to the touch, lift the burner assembly off its support arm. It slides away rather easily. The long tube called the flash tube can be cleaned with a long, stiff-bristled wire brush. If a good brushing doesn’t solve the problem, then replacement work may be necessary.

Bad Switch

• A bad switch can prevent a burner from heating properly. Pulling off the stove's dials that control the heat settings reveals a wiring system. Test a switch on the wiring by turning on an improperly functioning burner to the “Light” setting and simultaneously doing the same on a burner you know works properly. If the bad burner heats like the good burner, then a bad switch is the culprit behind the oven not heating satisfactorily.

Faulty Module

• The cause of the preheating problem may be a faulty module. Testing the modules involves turning every burner dial to the “Light” position for three seconds then turning it off. During that task, the igniter of each burner should spark with each setting. If at least one of them doesn’t spark, then the culprit is the module. The solution is to replace the module. Some home improvement stores and appliance centers sell modules, which can be installed by following their packaging's directions.