The Sunday Mail (Zimbabwe)

Common gas hob problems

- ◆ Tinashe Muzvongi is an expert in the gas equipment fraternity. He is the co-director of T&C Gas Equipment and Accessorie­s. Send your feedback to: info@tcgas.co.zw or via WhatsApp: +263 77 518 5263. Tinashe Muzvongi

GAS hobs are a common and essential kitchen appliance. They are known for their efficiency and precision in cooking. However, like any other household appliance, they can sometimes have problems.

We will explore some common gas hob issues and provide troublesho­oting tips to help you get your kitchen back up and running smoothly.

Ignition challenges

Problem: One of the most frequent issues with gas hobs is difficulty in igniting the burners. You may hear the clicking sound, but the flame does not light up.

Solution: Check for clogs or debris around the burner. Clean the burner head and the igniter with a soft brush or a toothpick. Make sure the hob is properly connected to the gas supply and that the gas valve is open.

Uneven flame

Problem: If one or more burners have an uneven flame or a yellowish flame instead of a blue one, it can affect cooking performanc­e. Solution: Clean the burner holes with a small brush or a needle to remove any dirt or food residue that may be blocking the gas flow. Adjust the air shutter on the burner to achieve an even blue flame.

Gas odour

Problem: A strong gas odour in your kitchen can be alarming and dangerous. Solution: If you smell gas, turn off the gas supply immediatel­y. Check for loose connection­s, damaged hoses or faulty seals. If you cannot find the source of the leak, contact a profession­al technician to inspect and repair it. Burner won’t stay lit

Problem: Sometimes a burner may not stay lit after releasing the ignition knob.

Solution: Ensure that the burner cap is correctly placed and aligned with the burner head. Clean the burner head and cap to remove any debris. If the issue persists, the thermocoup­le, which senses the flame and keeps the gas flowing, may be faulty and needs replacemen­t. Clicking sound after ignition

Problem: The clicking sound continues even after the burner has ignited.

Solution: This is often caused by moisture or food residue around the ignition switch. Allow the hob to dry thoroughly, or clean around the switch with a dry piece of cloth to stop the clicking.

Burner not heating properly

Problem: A burner may not reach the desired temperatur­e, affecting your cooking.

Solution: Check for clogs or blockages in the gas supply line. Ensure the burner cap and head are clean and properly aligned. If the problem persists, it could be an issue with the gas regulator or control valve, requiring profession­al repair. Electric ignition not working

Problem: If your gas hob has an electric ignition and it is not functionin­g, you may have to resort to using a lighter or matchstick.

Solution: Check if the ignition module is receiving power. If not, check the power source and replace the module if necessary. Ensure the igniter tip is clean and positioned correctly.

In conclusion, while gas hobs are generally reliable, they can present some problems over time. A number of them can be resolved through basic cleaning and maintenanc­e. However, for complex issues, including gas leaks, it is essential to seek profession­al assistance to ensure your safety and the proper functionin­g of your gas hob.

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