How to Check the Amps on an Igniter for a Viking Stove

The Viking Range Corporation is an American company that produces kitchen appliances for residential and commercial customers. If a burner on a Viking gas stove cook top refuses to light, there may be a problem with the igniter component. You can call Viking to schedule a service appointment to have someone check whether the igniter is drawing the appropriate amps, or, if you have experience with this type of appliance repair, you can use a clamp-on ammeter to measure the amps yourself. Make sure you have the knowledge needed to perform that check safely.

Things You'll Need

• Hex-head screwdriver
• Clamp-on ammeter

Instructions

1. Pull the stove away from the wall, and turn the gas valve to the "Off/Closed" position.

2. Lift the grate, burner cap and burner off of the Viking stove cook top. Set the removed components to the side.

3. Take out the two 3mm hex-head screws that hold the burner base to the top of the cook top. Remove the burner base component to expose the igniter. Set the burner base and screws aside with the other removed components.

4. Power on the clamp-on ammeter. Clamp the ammeter to one of the wires connected to the igniter, and make a note of the reading. Ideal readings are between 3.2 and 3.4 amps.

5. Reverse the process to replace the removed components. Turn the gas valve back to the "On/Open" position, and return the stove to its position against the wall.

Tips & Warnings

• If the igniter is faulty, obtain a replacement igniter directly from Viking or an appliance parts store.

• The electrical supply to the stove must be connected in order to measure the igniter amps, meaning that there's live voltage on the circuit. Do not touch the igniter wiring while performing this test. Touching the live circuit may result in serious injury or death. Consult a professional if you are inexperienced or uncomfortable with this type of appliance repair.

• Unauthorized troubleshooting or repairs may void the warranty on your Viking stove. Contact Viking customer service for more information.

References

• Oven & Cooktop Repair; Douglas Emley
• Viking Range: Gas Oven Installation Instructions
• Viking Range: Viking Installation Guide
• Media.fotki.com: Viking Stovetop Disassembly

Resources

• Viking Range: Contact and Support
• American Appliance: Gas Range Service Tips