5 Possible Causes of a Gas Lighter that Won’t Light
Gas lighters are used to create a flame that can light up a gas stove, candles, or any other flammable substances. However, it can be frustrating when a gas lighter won’t ignite despite repeated attempts. Here are the most common reasons why this happens:
Gas Flow Problems
The most obvious thing to check is whether the gas is flowing smoothly from the lighter. Listen closely for the sound of gas escaping when you press the ignition button. If you don’t hear anything, this may indicate a faulty gas valve or a leak in the gas line, which could be dangerous. Turn off the gas and call a professional technician to diagnose and repair the problem.
Low Fuel Level
If the lighter runs on butane gas, the fuel level may have run low and needs a refill. Simply turn off the gas, detach the fuel tank from the lighter, refill with butane gas, and reattach it to the lighter. Allow a few minutes for the gas to flow and stabilize before attempting to light the lighter.
Dirty Ignition Spark
The ignition spark that lights up the gas can get dirty over time, leading to a weak or non-existent spark. You can clean the spark with a soft cloth or brush and check for any accumulation of debris or rust near the electrode. If this doesn’t work, you may need to replace the spark generator module, which can be obtained from most hardware stores.
Damaged Piezo Crystal
The piezo crystal is a small electronic component inside the lighter that creates a spark when compressed. If the crystal is damaged or broken, it may need to be replaced. To check if this is the problem, listen closely for a clicking sound when you press the ignition button. If you don’t hear anything, it’s probably a sign that the crystal is defective.
Incorrect Use of the Lighter
If you’re new to using gas lighters, it’s easy to make a mistake that could be preventing it from working. For instance, make sure you’re pointing the lighter at the right angle toward the gas or flammable substance you’re trying to ignite. Also, wait a few seconds after pressing the ignition button before releasing it to allow the gas to flow and accumulate before attempting to light it up.
By following these tips, you’ll be able to troubleshoot and repair most common problems associated with gas lighters that won’t ignite.
