A gas hob that keeps clicking without igniting is one of the most common kitchen frustrations — and the good news is that the cause is often something simple you can sort out yourself. However, some issues do require a licensed gasfitter, so it's important to know the difference before you start poking around.
The Most Common Causes
There are several reasons your hob might click away without producing a flame:
- Moisture or water in the igniter — Steam from cooking, spills, or a recent clean can leave water sitting in the igniter housing, preventing a proper spark.
- Food debris blocking the burner — Boiled-over sauces and crumbs are the number one culprit. If the burner ports (the small holes around the burner cap) are clogged, gas can't flow freely enough to ignite.
- Misaligned burner cap — After cleaning, the burner cap may have been replaced slightly off-centre, disrupting the gas-to-spark connection.
- Worn or faulty igniter electrode — Over time, the ceramic igniter tip can crack or become coated with grease, weakening the spark.
- Faulty ignition switch — The switch behind the knob can wear out or stick, causing continuous clicking even when you're not pressing it.
- Low gas pressure or supply issue — Less common, but if multiple burners are affected, there may be a supply or regulator problem.
What You Can Safely Check and Clean Yourself
As a homeowner, you're allowed to carry out basic cleaning and maintenance on your hob — you just can't touch the gas connections or internal components. Here's what to do:
1. Let Everything Dry Out
If you've recently cleaned the hob or had a spill, give it at least 30–60 minutes to dry completely. You can speed this up by gently dabbing the igniter area with a dry cloth or using a hairdryer on a low, cool setting from a safe distance.
2. Clean the Burner Caps and Ports
- Remove the burner caps and burner heads (they simply lift off on most hobs).
- Use a soft toothbrush or a wooden toothpick to clear any debris from the small ports around the burner head. Never use metal objects — they can damage the ports.
- Wash the caps in warm soapy water, rinse well, and dry thoroughly before replacing.
- Avoid harsh abrasives that could damage the finish.
3. Reseat the Burner Cap
Make sure the burner cap sits flat and centred on the burner head. Even a millimetre off can prevent ignition. This is a surprisingly common fix after a clean.
4. Check the Igniter Electrode
Look at the small ceramic igniter tip near each burner. If it's visibly cracked, heavily coated in grease, or the tip is damaged, it will need replacing — that's a job for a professional.
5. Test in the Dark
With the room lights off, press the ignition and watch for a spark. A healthy spark is bright blue-white. A weak, orange, or intermittent spark points to a failing electrode or ignition module.
When the Clicking Won't Stop on Its Own
If your hob clicks continuously even when you're not touching the controls, this usually means a stuck ignition switch or moisture in the switch mechanism. Dry the area thoroughly first. If it continues, stop using that burner and arrange for a gasfitter to inspect it — a continuously sparking igniter can be a nuisance and may indicate a fault that needs attention.
Gas Supply and Pressure Issues
If all burners are affected, or you notice the flames are very low and yellow rather than blue, the problem may be with your gas supply, regulator, or pressure. In New Zealand, both natural gas and LPG systems must be maintained to the standards set out under the NZ Building Code and the Gas (Safety and Measurement) Regulations. Do not attempt to adjust regulators or gas fittings yourself — this is restricted work.
Check that your LPG bottle isn't empty, and that the valve is fully open. If you're on reticulated natural gas, contact your gas retailer to confirm there's no supply issue in your area.
Safety First — What to Do If You Smell Gas
If you smell gas at any point:
- Do not operate any switches or appliances.
- Extinguish any open flames.
- Open windows and doors.
- Leave the building.
- Turn off the gas at the meter or bottle.
- Call your gas supplier or a licensed gasfitter immediately.
For safety guidance, refer to WorkSafe NZ.
When to Call a Professional
Under New Zealand law, gasfitting work is restricted and must only be carried out by a tradesperson licensed by the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Board (PGDB). This includes:
- Replacing igniter electrodes or ignition modules
- Repairing or replacing gas valves, burner injectors, or regulators
- Any work on gas pipework or connections
- Fault-finding on the internal gas components of the hob
If your cleaning and drying efforts haven't resolved the problem, or if you suspect a component fault, it's time to call a qualified gasfitter. You can find licensed gasfitters in your area on tradedirectory.co.nz.
Attempting restricted gasfitting work yourself is illegal, can void your home insurance, and — most importantly — puts your household at serious risk.