The burner clicks but won't light — where's the problem?
If you hear the ignition clicking normally, the electrical spark system is working — the problem is almost always that the spark isn't reaching the gas, or gas isn't reaching the burner port cleanly. Both usually trace back to debris or spilled food residue.
What should you check first?
Remove the burner cap and grate, and inspect both the burner ports (small holes gas flows through) and the igniter itself (the small ceramic-tipped electrode near the burner) for food debris, grease, or spilled liquid residue. A toothpick or small wire brush can clear clogged ports; a dry cloth or soft brush works for the igniter.
What if it's clean but still won't ignite?
Check whether the igniter is wet — a recent spill or even heavy cleaning with a wet cloth can leave enough moisture to prevent the spark from firing properly. Let it air dry for 15-20 minutes and try again before assuming a parts failure.
What if cleaning and drying don't fix it?
At that point the igniter itself has likely failed and needs replacing — a straightforward $80–$150 repair per burner. This is common enough that we carry universal igniters for most major cooktop brands on our service vehicles.
Call (469) 886-1122 if cleaning doesn't restore ignition — most cooktop igniter repairs are same-day, single-visit fixes.