November 20, 2014

How to replace a spark module on a gas cooktop

These instructions in this step-by-step cooktop repair guide show how to replace the spark module in a gas cooktop. The spark module receives a signal from the burner switches and sends voltage to the igniter electrodes to make them spark to ignite the surface burner. If the spark module isn't sending voltage to one or more burners, replace the spark module with the correct gas cooktop part.

Use these steps to replace the spark module in Kenmore, Frigidaire, Electrolux, GE, Whirlpool, KitchenAid, Maytag and Amana gas cooktops.

Quick links

Instructions

Tools required

1/4-inch nut driver

Screwdriver

Work gloves

Repair difficulty

Time required

30 minutes or less

Instructions

01.
Shut off power and gas
Unplug the power cord from the wall outlet and then close the gas supply shut-off valve.
02.
Remove the burner heads
Remove all the cooktop grates and then lift the gas burner caps off the burner heads. Remove the screws that hold the burner heads in place and then remove the burner heads.
PHOTO: Remove the burner caps.
PHOTO: Remove the burner head screws.
PHOTO: Remove the burner heads.
03.
Remove the main top
Pull the control knobs off of the burner control valves. Remove the screws that secure the main top to the top of the burner orifice holders. Lift the main top off of the cooktop and set it aside.
PHOTO: Remove the main top.
04.
Remove the spark module
Take a digital picture of the wires attached to the existing spark module or tag them with labeled masking tape so you can connect them correctly to the new spark module.
Disconnect all the wires attached to the spark module.
Release the locking tab and then remove the spark module from the mounting bracket. Discard the spark module.
PHOTO: Disconnect the spark module wires.
PHOTO: Remove the spark module.
05.
Install the new spark module
Position the new spark module on the mounting bracket and push it into place. The locking tab should snap into place when the module is in the right position.
Using the digital picture or marked tape as a guide, connect the wires to the new spark module.
06.
Reinstall the main top
Position the main top on top of the burner orifice holders. Insert and tighten the screws that secure the main top to the orifice holders. Push the control knobs on the burner control valves.
07.
Reinstall the burner heads
Position the burner heads in the correct locations, screw them into place and tighten the screws firmly. Cover the burner heads with the burner caps in the correct locations. Set the grates into place on the cooktop.
08.
Reconnect the gas and power
Plug the power cord into the wall outlet and open the gas shut-off valve.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. Be sure to use the proper tools and safety equipment noted in the guide and follow all instructions. Do not proceed until you are confident that you understand all of the steps and are capable of completing the repair. Some repairs should only be performed by a qualified technician.