How to Measure Amperage on an Oven Ignitor

The ignitor is usually located in the back of the appliance.

Gas ovens have an ignition system that includes an ignitor. The ignitor is responsible for opening or closing the gas valve to heat or cool the oven. If your gas oven fails to heat up, it may have a faulty ignitor. An oven ignitor may still emit a faint orange glow even if it no longer works; you'll have to measure the amperage to determine if you need to replace it. A clamp-on ammeter will measure the amperage of the oven ignitor.

Things You'll Need

• Clamp-on ammeter
• Oven owner's manual

Instructions

1. Clip the clamp-on ammeter on one of the lead wires that connects to the oven ignitor. It doesn't matter which lead wire you select.

2. Turn on the oven by turning the knob by using the buttons on the oven's digital display.

3. Check the display of the ammeter for the ignitor's amperage. Compare this amperage to the amp rating indicated for your oven; check in the owner's manual for the proper amp rating. If the amp rating indicated by the ammeter is off by 2 percent, replace the oven ignitor. A general amp rating range for round ignitors is 2.6 to 2.8 amps; flat ignitors should have an amperage between 3.2 to 3.6. If you can't find your owner's manual, use the correct general rating for your type of ignitor as a guide.

References

• American A/C & Appliance Co.: Gas Range Diagnostic Chart
• Mr. Appliance: Gas Oven Repair Tips

Resources

• Appliance Aid: Amp Meter How To