If your Maytag oven refuses to ignite, the igniter could be the culprit. This small but crucial component sparks the gas valve to ignite the burners and heat your food. When it malfunctions, it can leave you with a cold oven and a frustrating cooking experience. However, repairing a faulty oven igniter on your Maytag oven is a relatively straightforward task that you can accomplish with the right tools and a bit of know-how. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll be able to restore your oven to full working order without the need for a costly repair technician visit.
Before embarking on the repair, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools and safety equipment. You’ll need a screwdriver set, a multimeter, and a pair of safety gloves. Additionally, ensure you have adequate lighting and ventilation in your work area. Once you’re ready, start by unplugging the oven from the power source and allowing it to cool completely. Then, remove the oven racks and locate the igniter. It’s typically situated near the bottom of the oven, close to the gas burner. Once you’ve identified the igniter, use the screwdriver to carefully detach it from its housing.
Once the igniter is removed, use the multimeter to test its continuity. Set the multimeter to the ohms (Ω) setting and touch the probes to the two terminals on the igniter. If the multimeter reads an open circuit (OL), the igniter is defective and needs to be replaced. However, if the multimeter displays a reading between 100 and 500 ohms, the igniter is likely functional, and the issue may lie elsewhere in the ignition system. After testing the igniter, reconnect it if it’s still in working order and proceed to troubleshoot other potential causes for the ignition failure. Remember, while repairing an oven igniter on your Maytag oven is a relatively simple task, it’s crucial to approach it with caution and ensure your safety throughout the process.
Identifying the Oven Igniter
The oven igniter is a crucial component of your Maytag oven, responsible for initiating the gas flow and igniting the burner. Without a functioning igniter, your oven won’t be able to generate heat and cook food. Identifying the oven igniter is the first step towards repairing it.
To locate the igniter, you’ll need to access the oven’s interior. Turn off the gas supply and unplug the oven from the electrical outlet. Remove the oven racks and locate the burners at the bottom of the oven cavity. The igniter is typically positioned near or behind the burners. It’s a small, cylindrical device with a wire leading to it. The igniter may be covered by a metal shield or heat shield, which you may need to remove to access it.
Once you have identified the oven igniter, you can proceed with the repair process. Common igniter issues include electrical failures, gas flow problems, or blockages. By following the steps outlined below, you can diagnose and fix the problem effectively.
| Igniter Issue | Possible Cause |
|---|---|
| No spark | – Electrical connection failure – Defective igniter |
| Weak or intermittent spark | – Partially obstructed gas flow – Dirty or corroded igniter |
| Igniter glows but doesn’t ignite the gas | – Insufficient gas supply – Blockage in the gas line |
Disconnecting the Power Supply
Step 1: Locate the Circuit Breaker or Fuse
Identify the electrical panel or fuse box that supplies power to your oven. Locate the specific breaker or fuse that corresponds to the oven circuit.
Step 2: Turn Off the Power
Flip the breaker to the “OFF” position or remove the fuse. This will cut off the electrical supply to the oven.
Step 3: Double-Check the Power
To ensure that the power is completely disconnected, attempt to turn on the oven lights or any other electrical component. If they do not work, you have successfully disconnected the power supply.
Safety Warning: It is crucial to disconnect the power supply before performing any repairs on your oven to prevent electrical shock or damage to the oven.
| Tool Required | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Screwdriver | To remove the oven’s cover |
| Voltage Tester | To verify that the power is disconnected |
Locating the Igniter Module
To access the igniter module, you will need to remove the lower front panel.
1. Turn off the power to the oven at the circuit breaker.
2. Open the oven door.
3. Remove the screws that hold the lower front panel in place.
4. Carefully pull the lower front panel straight out towards you. The panel may be slightly difficult to remove, so be sure to use caution.
#### Locate the igniter module:
Once the lower front panel is removed, you will be able to see the igniter module. The igniter module is a small, rectangular-shaped device attached to the bottom of the oven cavity.
5. Disconnect the wires from the igniter module.
6. Unscrew the igniter module from the oven.
7. Inspect the igniter module for any signs of damage. If the igniter module is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Testing the Igniter with a Multimeter
To test the igniter using a multimeter, follow these steps:
1. Safety Precautions
Before proceeding, ensure the oven is unplugged and the gas supply is turned off. Wear insulated gloves and eye protection for safety.
2. Access the Igniter
Locate and remove the access panel that provides access to the igniter. It is typically found at the bottom or rear of the oven.
3. Disconnect the Igniter Wires
Identify the wires connected to the igniter. Carefully disconnect them from the terminals.
4. Set Multimeter to Resistance Mode
Switch your multimeter to the resistance mode setting (usually denoted by the Omega symbol). Set the range to low ohms (e.g., 200 ohms or below).
5. Test Continuity
Touch the multimeter probes to the terminals of the igniter. If the display reads close to zero ohms (0.00-0.05 ohms), the igniter is most likely functional. If the display reads infinity (OL) or a very high resistance value, the igniter is likely faulty and needs to be replaced.
| Multimeter Reading | Igniter Condition |
|---|---|
| 0.00-0.05 ohms | Functional |
| Infinity (OL) or High Resistance | Faulty |
Replacing the Faulty Igniter
If you’ve determined that the igniter is faulty, it’s time to replace it. Follow these steps to ensure a safe and successful repair:
1. Disconnect the Power:
Before starting any work, ensure the oven is unplugged or the power is disconnected from the breaker panel.
2. Remove the Oven Door:
To access the igniter, you’ll need to remove the oven door. Consult your oven’s manual for specific instructions on how to do this.
3. Locate the Igniter:
The igniter is typically located at the back of the oven, near the burner. It’s a small, cylindrical device with two wires connected to it.
4. Disconnect the Wires:
Using a pair of needle-nose pliers, carefully disconnect the wires from the igniter. Take note of which wire goes where so you can reconnect them correctly later.
5. Remove the Igniter:
Once the wires are disconnected, remove the igniter by unscrewing it from its mounting bracket. You may need a socket wrench or pliers for this.
6. Install the New Igniter:
Take the new igniter and screw it into the mounting bracket. Ensure it’s securely tightened but avoid overtightening.
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| a) Position Igniter | Place the igniter into the mounting bracket and align it correctly. |
| b) Secure Igniter | Using a socket wrench or pliers, tighten the screws to secure the igniter. |
| c) Avoid Overtightening | Be cautious not to overtighten the screws, as this can damage the igniter. |
7. Reconnect the Wires:
Reconnect the wires to the igniter, matching the wires to their previous connections. Secure the wires using the wire nuts or electrical tape.
8. Test the Igniter:
Reconnect the oven’s power and turn it on. If the oven ignites successfully, the igniter has been replaced successfully.
Reassembling the Oven Door
Now that the oven igniter has been repaired, it’s time to reassemble the oven door. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:
- Attach the Inner Door Panel: Carefully align the inner door panel with the frame of the oven door and slide it into place. Make sure the panel is flush with the frame and secure it with screws.
- Install the Outer Door Panel: Position the outer door panel over the inner panel and align it precisely. Secure it by tightening the screws around the perimeter of the door.
- Reconnect the Wires: Locate the wires that connect the igniter to the control board and reconnect them. Ensure the connections are secure and insulated with electrical tape to prevent any shorts.
- Attach the Door Gasket: Retrieve the door gasket and inspect it for any damage. If there are any tears or gaps, replace the gasket. Position the new gasket around the perimeter of the inner door panel and press it firmly into place.
- Tighten the Hinge Screws: Using a screwdriver, tighten the screws that secure the oven door hinges to the frame. Ensure they are adequately tightened so that the door operates smoothly.
- Lubricate the Hinges: Apply a small amount of high-temperature grease to the oven door hinges. This will reduce friction and ensure smooth door operation over time.
- Calibrate the Igniter: Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions to calibrate the igniter. Typically, this involves manually adjusting a potentiometer or using the oven’s diagnostic mode.
| Part | Removal | Reinstallation |
|---|---|---|
| Inner Door Panel | Remove screws, detach panel | Align, slide in, secure with screws |
| Outer Door Panel | Remove screws, pull off panel | Align, position, tighten screws |
| Wires | Disconnect from igniter/control board | Reconnect, insulate with tape |
| Door Gasket | Remove old gasket | Align, press in new gasket |
| Hinge Screws | Loosen screws | Tighten screws |
| Lubrication | – | Apply grease to hinges |
| Igniter Calibration | – | Adjust potentiometer/enter diagnostic mode |
Reconnecting the Power Supply
1. Unplug the oven:
Before beginning any repairs, it’s crucial to unplug the oven from the power outlet to prevent any electrical hazards.
2. Locate the circuit breaker or fuse:
Identify the circuit breaker or fuse associated with the oven and turn it off or remove it to cut off power to the appliance.
3. Remove the top panel:
Locate the top panel of the oven and unscrew the screws holding it in place. Carefully lift and remove the panel to access the oven’s interior.
4. Disconnect the wiring harness:
Find the wiring harness connected to the igniter module and gently unplug it by pressing the release tab and pulling it straight out.
5. Remove the igniter module:
Using a screwdriver, unscrew the screws holding the igniter module in place. Carefully lift and pull out the module to expose the igniter electrodes.
6. Clean the igniter electrodes:
Over time, food residue and grease can accumulate on the igniter electrodes, causing them to malfunction. Use a soft cloth or brush to gently clean the electrodes and remove any buildup.
7. Inspect the igniter module:
Examine the igniter module for any visible signs of damage or burning. If the module appears damaged, it may need to be replaced.
8. Reconnect the igniter module:
Carefully insert the cleaned igniter module back into its housing and tighten the screws securely. Reconnect the wiring harness by aligning the connector and gently pressing it into place until it clicks.
| Tool | Usage |
|---|---|
| Screwdriver | Removing and tightening screws |
| Soft cloth or brush | Cleaning igniter electrodes |
9. Replace the top panel:
Align the top panel with the oven’s frame and carefully lower it into place. Secure the panel with the screws and ensure a snug fit.
10. Restore power:
Return to the circuit breaker panel or fuse box and turn on the circuit breaker or replace the fuse to restore power to the oven. Plug the oven back into the power outlet.
Troubleshooting Common Igniter Issues
Identify The Problem
The igniter is the component that creates the spark that ignites the gas in the oven. If your oven is not igniting, it could be a problem with the igniter. Here are some common problems that can occur with oven igniters:
Bad Igniter
The igniter may be damaged or worn out. This can be caused by a number of factors, such as age, use, or exposure to heat.
Faulty Wire Connection
The wires that connect the igniter to the oven may be loose or damaged. This can prevent the igniter from receiving power.
Malfunctioning Gas Valve
The gas valve may not be opening properly. This can prevent gas from reaching the igniter.
Clogged Burner Tube
The burner tube may be clogged with food or debris. This can prevent the gas from reaching the igniter.
Dirty or Corroded Spark Plug
The spark plug may be dirty or corroded. This can prevent the spark from reaching the gas.
Defective Control Board
The control board may be defective. This can prevent the igniter from receiving power.
How To Repair Oven Igniter On Maytag
- Safety First: Before you begin, make sure to disconnect the power to your oven.
- Locate the igniter. The igniter is located near the burner tube. It is usually a small, metal rod with a wire attached to it.
- Inspect the igniter. Look for any signs of damage, such as cracks or breaks.
- Test the igniter. To test the igniter, use a multimeter to check for continuity. If there is no continuity, the igniter is bad and needs to be replaced.
- Clean the igniter. If the igniter is dirty or corroded, clean it with a wire brush.
- Check the wire connections. Make sure that the wires that connect the igniter to the oven are secure.
- Replace the igniter. If the igniter is bad, it will need to be replaced. To do this, simply unscrew the old igniter and screw in the new one.
- Reconnect the power. Once you have replaced the igniter, reconnect the power to your oven.
- Test the oven. Turn on the oven and see if it ignites. If it does, the repair was successful.
| Igniter Problem | Possible Causes | How to Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Igniter not sparking | – Bad igniter – Faulty wire connection – Malfunctioning gas valve – Clogged burner tube |
– Replace the igniter – Check the wire connections – Replace the gas valve – Clean the burner tube |
| Igniter sparking but not igniting gas | – Dirty or corroded spark plug – Defective control board |
– Clean the spark plug – Replace the control board |
How To Repair Oven Igniter On Maytag
If your Maytag oven isn’t igniting, the igniter may need to be replaced. The igniter is a small, metal rod that heats up and ignites the gas that flows to the burners. Over time, the igniter can become worn out or damaged, which can prevent it from working properly.
Replacing the igniter is a relatively simple repair that can be done in about 30 minutes. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A new igniter
- A screwdriver
- A pair of pliers
Once you have your materials, follow these steps:
- Unplug the oven from the electrical outlet.
- Remove the access panel on the back of the oven.
- Locate the igniter. It will be a small, metal rod that is connected to the gas valve.
- Disconnect the wires from the igniter.
- Unscrew the igniter from the gas valve.
- Install the new igniter.
- Reconnect the wires to the igniter.
- Screw the igniter into the gas valve.
- Replace the access panel.
- Plug the oven back into the electrical outlet.
Once you’ve replaced the igniter, test the oven to make sure it’s working properly. If the oven doesn’t ignite, there may be another problem that needs to be addressed.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my Maytag oven igniter is bad?
There are a few signs that your Maytag oven igniter may be bad.
One sign is if the oven doesn’t ignite when you turn it on. Another sign is if the oven ignites but the flame goes out quickly. If you see either of these signs, it’s possible that the igniter is bad.
Can I replace the Maytag oven igniter myself?
Yes, you can replace the Maytag oven igniter yourself. It’s a relatively simple repair that can be done in about 30 minutes. Just be sure to follow the steps in the above guide carefully.
How much does it cost to replace a Maytag oven igniter?
The cost of replacing a Maytag oven igniter will vary depending on the model of your oven and the cost of the igniter itself. However, you can expect to pay between $50 and $100 for the igniter and the labor to replace it.
