How to Troubleshoot a GE Cooktop Burner

Spillovers should be cleaned up immediately so they don't clog the burner assembly openings.

Most problems with GE cooktop burners can be avoided by keeping them clean. Spillovers should be cleaned up immediately so they don't clog the burner assembly openings. Burner caps and heads can be washed in hot, soapy water and rinsed in clean, running water. Plastic scouring pads can be used to remove burned on food particles---use an old toothbrush if you need to.

Things You'll Need

• Emery board
• Cloths
• Detergent

Instructions

1. Clean the burners if the flame pattern isn't even.

2. Make sure the electrical power is on if the burners don't light. The ignition system requires electricity even though the fuel is gas.

3. Make sure the gas supply is on if the ignition system sparks but the burners don't come on.

4. Clean the electrodes if the burners don't light. The electrode is in the burner base. Clean the metal part with a soft cloth. You can use emery board on the metal part but not the white ceramic part.

5. Determine if the burner flame color is normal. Flames should always be blue when using natural gas. They should be blue with yellow tips when using liquid petroleum gas (LPG) and should never be all yellow. Call for service if they are all yellow.

Tips & Warnings

• A sewing needle can unclog the small holes in the burner. Burned-on food can be removed by soaking the burner heads in a solution of mild liquid dishwashing detergent and hot water for up to 30 minutes.

• Don't wash burner parts in the dishwasher. Don't remove the burner bases for cleaning---just use soapy water and a plastic scouring pad. Keep water out of the orifices and dry thoroughly before using again.

References

• GE Built-in Gas Cooktops User Guide