How to Replace a Gas Range Surface Burner: A Quick and Easy Guide

Updated at: 29/03/2025

Is your gas range's surface burner sputtering, flickering, or simply not working? A faulty burner can be incredibly frustrating, hindering your cooking and potentially creating safety hazards. Fortunately, replacing a gas range surface burner is often a straightforward DIY project, saving you the expense of a costly service call. Many modern ranges are designed with user-friendly components, making this repair accessible even to those with limited home repair experience. A non-functional burner doesn't have to mean a trip to the appliance store or a call to a repairman.

This quick and easy guide provides a step-by-step walkthrough of the entire replacement process, from safely disconnecting the gas supply to securing the new burner in place. With the right tools and a little patience, you can have your gas range back up and running in no time. Let's get started!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Needle-nose pliers
Safety Guidelines
  • Always turn off the gas supply to the range before beginning any repair. Failure to do so could result in a gas leak and potential fire or explosion.
  • Allow the burner and surrounding area to cool completely before handling. A hot burner can cause serious burns.
  • If you are unsure about any step of the process, consult a qualified appliance repair technician. Improper installation could lead to gas leaks or malfunction.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Preparation

    • Disconnect the power to the range by unplugging it. If you need to move the range, turn off the gas supply first.

  2. Remove Old Burner

    • Remove the grate and the burner you're replacing.
    • Turn the burner counter-clockwise about an eighth of a turn to remove it.
    • Disconnect the ground wire and the igniter wire using needle-nose pliers if needed.
    Disconnect the ground wire and the igniter wire using needle-nose pliers if needed.Disconnect the ground wire and the igniter wire using needle-nose pliers if needed.Disconnect the ground wire and the igniter wire using needle-nose pliers if needed.
    Remove Old Burner

  3. Replace Old Parts

    • Discard the old burner and replace the rubber gasket if necessary.
    Discard the old burner and replace the rubber gasket if necessary.
    Replace Old Parts

  4. Install New Burner

    • Reconnect the igniter wire and the yellow ground wire, ensuring they are pulled away from the opening.
    • Set the new burner straight down into the opening and turn it an eighth of a turn clockwise.
    Set the new burner straight down into the opening and turn it an eighth of a turn clockwise.Set the new burner straight down into the opening and turn it an eighth of a turn clockwise.
    Install New Burner

  5. Final Steps

    • Replace the grate, reconnect the power, and turn on the gas supply.

Read more: Fix Washing Machine Won't Spin: Quick & Easy Motor Coupler Replacement

Tips

  • Always disconnect the power and gas supply before starting any repair.
  • If your range has a rubber gasket below the burner, replace it if needed.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Burner Size

Reason: Using a burner element that is not the correct size or wattage for the cooktop will result in poor performance or damage to the appliance.
Solution: Always ensure you purchase a replacement burner element with the exact same specifications as the original.

2. Improper Wiring Connection

Reason: Loose or incorrect wiring connections can lead to malfunction, sparks, or even fire hazards.
Solution: Carefully match the wires to their corresponding terminals and ensure secure connections before turning on the gas.

3. Ignoring Safety Precautions

Reason: Not turning off the gas supply, failing to let the cooktop cool completely before working, or not using proper insulation can lead to injury or damage.
Solution: Always turn off the gas supply at the source, allow the cooktop to cool, and use appropriate safety gear like gloves when handling electrical components.

FAQs

What tools do I need to replace a gas range surface burner?
You'll typically need a flat-head screwdriver, a Phillips head screwdriver (depending on your model), and possibly needle-nose pliers. Always turn off the gas supply to the range before starting.