Faulty Hob – What to Do When Your Kitchen Burner Won’t Light

Notice your hob sputtering, failing to ignite, or flashing odd lights? You’re not alone. A bad hob can ruin a dinner plan, but you don’t always need to wait for a technician. With a few quick checks you can often spot the problem, stay safe, and decide if a call to a Bedford gas engineer is worth it.

Simple Checks Before Calling a Pro

Before you pick up the phone, go through these easy steps. They take only a few minutes and can save you a call‑out fee.

• Power supply. Make sure the hob is plugged in correctly and the socket isn’t tripped. Reset any circuit breaker if you see it in the off position.
• Gas valve. Verify that the main gas supply valve is fully open. A partially closed valve can cause weak flames or no ignition at all.
• Cleaner caps. Remove any food debris or grease from the burners and ignition caps. Build‑up prevents the spark from reaching the gas.
• Ignition spark. Turn the knob to the “ignite” position and watch for a spark. If you see a click but no spark, the ignition electrode may be dirty or worn.
• Thermocouple. For older gas hobs, the thermocouple (the little metal rod near the burner) can get cracked. A cracked thermocouple stops the gas flow for safety.

If any of these steps fix the issue, great – you’ve saved yourself time and money. If the hob still won’t light or flames look uneven, it’s time to move on.

When to Call the Professionals

Some problems need a qualified gas engineer. Here’s when you should pick up the phone:

• ​Gas smell. If you detect any gas odor, turn off the supply immediately and ventilate the kitchen. Call a Bedford gas engineer right away – gas leaks are dangerous.
• ​No spark after cleaning. If the ignition still won’t spark after you’ve cleaned it, the electrode may need replacement.
• ​Irregular flames. Blue flames that turn yellow or flicker often mean a burner block or a gas‑pressure issue that a pro must diagnose.
• ​Older hob. If your hob is more than 10‑12 years old, the internal seals and gas lines may be wearing out. A professional can replace the whole unit safely.
• ​Electrical faults. If the hob trips the circuit breaker repeatedly, the wiring may be faulty. Only a certified engineer should handle the wiring.

Bedford gas engineers are fully certified, carry the right tools, and know the local regulations. They’ll do a full safety check, repair or replace the faulty part, and test the hob before they leave.

Remember, safety comes first. If you’re ever unsure, it’s better to wait for a professional than to risk a gas leak or fire. A quick call can get your hob back in shape and keep your kitchen running smoothly.

Got a stubborn hob? Follow the simple checks, and if the problem persists, call a trusted Bedford gas engineer. Fast, reliable service means you won’t miss a meal again.