Cooker Fault? Common Issues and How to Fix Them

When your cooker fault, a malfunction in a gas or electric cooking appliance that prevents it from heating, igniting, or maintaining temperature. Also known as cooker breakdown, it’s one of the most disruptive home appliance problems—especially when you’re trying to get dinner on the table. A cooker fault isn’t always a sign you need a brand-new unit. Often, it’s something simple: a blocked gas jet, a worn-out igniter, or a faulty thermostat. Many people panic and call a repair service right away, but a few quick checks can save you time and cash.

Most gas cooker problems, issues specific to gas-powered cooking appliances that involve ignition failure, uneven heating, or gas leaks start with the burner. If the flame is weak, yellow, or won’t light at all, it’s usually dirt or debris clogging the gas ports. Clean them with a pin or needle—just make sure the gas is off first. If the igniter clicks but doesn’t spark, the electrode might be dirty or broken. A quick wipe with a dry cloth often fixes it. And if the oven won’t heat but the hob works fine? That’s usually the oven thermostat, a temperature-sensing device that controls whether the oven element turns on or off failing. It’s not hard to test with a multimeter, but if you’re not comfortable with tools, it’s safer to call someone who is.

Don’t ignore strange smells or hissing sounds. Those aren’t just annoying—they’re safety risks. A gas leak near your cooker could be dangerous, and it’s not something to guess about. If you smell gas, turn off the supply, open windows, and get help immediately. Even if the fault seems small, like an oven door that doesn’t seal right, it’s wasting energy and making your food cook unevenly. A loose door seal is cheap to fix, but it’s easy to overlook.

What you’ll find below are real fixes from people who’ve been there. No fluff. No theory. Just what actually works: how to tell if your cooker’s thermostat is dead, why the burner won’t light even with a new gas supply, and when replacing a part is smarter than replacing the whole unit. Some of these fixes take five minutes. Others need a pro—but you’ll know exactly when it’s time to call one.