Red Seal Appliance Service Technician Practice Exam

Which is a typical sign of a malfunctioning ignitor in a gas range?

1. The appliance makes a clicking noise

2. The burner fails to light

3. The oven temperature is inconsistent

4. The display shows an error code

The correct answer is: The burner fails to light

A typical sign of a malfunctioning ignitor in a gas range is that the burner fails to light. The ignitor is responsible for igniting the gas that flows to the burner when the knob is turned to the "on" position. If the ignitor is not functioning properly — whether it’s not glowing brightly enough or not glowing at all — it will not provide the necessary heat to ignite the gas, resulting in the burner failing to light. While a clicking noise may indicate that the ignitor is trying to work, it doesn't confirm its functionality because clicking could occur even if the ignitor is defective. An inconsistent oven temperature generally points to other issues within the oven, such as a malfunctioning thermostat or a faulty heating element rather than specifically indicating a problem with the ignitor. Lastly, error codes displayed on modern ranges often relate to electronic issues or sensor problems, which are separate from the mechanical function of the ignitor. Therefore, the most direct and typical indication of an ignitor malfunction is indeed the failure of the burner to light.