How to Light the Pilot Light in Your Gas Oven: 1 Minute to Safely Ignite Your Oven’s Pilot Light

If your gas oven isn’t heating up, one of the most common culprits is an unlit pilot light. Lighting the pilot light is a straightforward process, though it's essential to follow steps carefully to ensure your safety. First, make sure your oven is turned off and the area is well-ventilated. Locate the pilot light; this is usually found at the bottom of your oven’s main compartment, near the back or underneath the floor panel. Some ovens require you to lift the bottom panel or remove a metal cover.

Next, turn the oven’s temperature knob to "Pilot" or its lowest setting while simultaneously pressing and holding the nearby reset button (sometimes labeled as "Ignite" or "Pilot"). With a long lighter or match, carefully bring the flame to the pilot opening. You should see a small blue flame ignite. Continue holding the reset button for about 30 seconds before slowly releasing it. If the pilot stays lit, replace any covers or panels you removed. Your oven should now be ready to use. If the pilot light doesn’t stay lit, there may be a problem with the thermocouple and it’s best to contact a professional.

As a designer, I always encourage approaching every utility issue with both safety and style in mind. In kitchen layouts, ample access to appliances and ensuring clear, safe pathways around the oven are key not only for function but for safety during tasks like lighting a pilot. Thoughtful organization, proper ventilation, and layout planning go hand-in-hand—if you’re redesigning or updating your kitchen, using a kitchen layout planner can make a huge difference for both workflow and safety zones.

Tips 1:

If at any point you smell gas or suspect a leak, stop immediately, ventilate the space, and call your gas provider. Never attempt to light the pilot if you notice a strong gas odor.

FAQ

Q: Where is the pilot light usually located in a gas oven?

A: It’s typically beneath the oven floor or near the back of the oven compartment, sometimes covered by a metal panel.

Q: Do all gas ovens have a pilot light?

A: Not all modern gas ovens use pilot lights; many use electronic ignition instead. Check your oven’s manual to confirm.

Q: What should I do if the pilot light keeps going out?

A: There may be an issue with the thermocouple or the gas supply. If it doesn’t stay lit after several tries, contact a professional technician.

Q: Can I use a regular lighter to light the pilot light?

A: It’s best to use a long-necked lighter or fireplace match to keep your hand away from the flame’s path.

Q: Is it necessary to turn off the gas supply before attempting to light the pilot?

A: If you only need to relight the pilot, ensure the oven is off before starting. If you smell gas or need to inspect deeper, shut off the supply and call for help.