Gas Oven Not Working? Common Causes and Quick Fixes

When your gas oven, a kitchen appliance that uses natural gas or propane to generate heat for cooking. Also known as a gas stove, it stops working, it’s rarely because the whole unit is dead. More often, it’s a simple part that’s failed—like the pilot light, a small, continuous flame that ignites the main burner in older gas ovens, or a dirty thermocouple, a safety sensor that shuts off gas flow if it doesn’t detect heat. These aren’t expensive fixes, and most of the time, you can handle them without calling a pro.

If your oven doesn’t turn on at all, check the pilot light first. If it’s out, relighting it often solves the problem—just follow the manufacturer’s instructions near the oven’s bottom panel. If the pilot stays lit but the oven still won’t heat, the thermocouple might be dirty or worn out. A quick clean with sandpaper can restore contact. If you hear a clicking sound but no flame, the gas valve, the component that controls gas flow to the burners could be stuck or faulty. Gas ovens also rely on proper airflow; blocked vents or clogged burner ports can stop heat from reaching the oven cavity. Don’t ignore the smell of gas—if you smell it, turn off the supply and call a technician immediately. Safety comes first.

Many people assume a gas oven that won’t heat means it’s time to replace the whole thing. But most failures are fixable, especially if the oven is under 10 years old. Replacing a thermocouple costs less than $30 and takes under 30 minutes. Cleaning burner ports with a toothpick or wire brush can restore performance in minutes. Even if the igniter is broken, a new one usually runs under $50. The real cost comes from ignoring the problem—wasted gas, cold meals, or worse, a safety hazard. The posts below cover exactly these issues: how to test your oven’s parts, what tools you need, when DIY works, and when it’s time to call in a pro. You’ll find step-by-step guides for common gas oven failures, from pilot light issues to gas supply problems, all written for homeowners who want to fix things fast and safely.