November 01, 2016

How to replace a gas grill igniter electrode

How to replace a gas grill igniter electrode

This repair guide gives step-by-step instructions for replacing an igniter electrode on a gas grill. The electrode provides the spark to the burner to ignite the gas. If the burner won't light, first clean and align the electrode. If the problem persists, replace the igniter electrode with a manufacturer-approved replacement part.

Follow the steps in this repair guide and video to replace an igniter electrode in common Kenmore, BBQ-Pro, Charbroil, Nexgrill and Brinkman gas grills.

Quick links
Tools required
Phillips screwdriver
Work gloves
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Repair difficulty
Time required
15 minutes or less
Replacing an igniter electrode on a gas grill

This video shows how to replace the igniter electrode on a gas grill.

Instructions

  1. 01.

    Shut off the gas supply

    Close the shut-off valve on the propane gas tank.

    Tip: Arrows on the tank knob show which way to turn it to open and close the valve.
  2. 02.

    Remove the cooking grate and flame tamer

    Pull off the cooking grate and remove the flame tamer located above the igniter electrode.

    PHOTO: Remove the cooking grate.

    PHOTO: Remove the cooking grate.

  3. 03.

    Remove the igniter electrode

    Remove the igniter mounting screw and pull the igniter electrode out of the firebox.

    Disconnect the igniter electrode wire harness.

    Remove the igniter electrode.

    PHOTO: Remove the mounting screw that holds the igniter electrode in place.

    PHOTO: Remove the mounting screw that holds the igniter electrode in place.

    PHOTO: Disconnect the igniter wire.

    PHOTO: Disconnect the igniter wire.

  4. 04.

    Install the new igniter electrode

    Thread the new igniter electrode through the firebox opening.

    Line up the mounting hole and install the mounting screw.

    Plug the igniter electrode wire harness into the igniter module.

  5. 05.

    Reinstall the cooking grates and flame tamers

    Place the flame tamer on top of the burners. Reinstall the cooking grate.

  6. 06.

    Restore the gas supply

    Open the valve on the propane gas tank.

Warning: Undertaking repairs to appliances can be hazardous. 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.

Symptoms for gas grills

Choose a symptom to see related gas grill repairs.

Main causes: nearly empty fuel tank, faulty pressure regulator, burner tube clogs, bad burner tube alignment to gas valv…

Main causes: clogged burner tubes, cracked insulators on igniter electrodes, wiring failures, bad ignition module, manif…

Main causes: damaged or dirty flame tamers, corroded firebox, accumulated grease and debris in the grease pan…

Main causes: empty fuel tank, tripped flow-limiting device on the pressure regulator, faulty manifold valves, burner tub…

Repair guides for gas grills

These step-by-step repair guides will help you safely fix what’s broken on your gas grill.

How to replace a gas grill igniter electrode

How to replace a gas grill igniter electrode

Replace the igniter electrode on your gas grill if it won’t light the burner.…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace a gas grill ignition module

How to replace a gas grill ignition module

Follow these steps to replace the ignition module if it doesn't produce a spark. …

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less
How to replace a gas grill burner

How to replace a gas grill burner

Replace a damaged burner on your gas grill in less than 15 minutes and with just pliers and a screwdriver for tools.…

Repair difficulty
Time required
 15 minutes or less

Effective articles & videos to help repair your outdoor grills

Use the advice and tips in these articles and videos to get the most out of your gas grill.

What are the main parts of a gas BBQ grill?

What are the main parts of a gas BBQ grill?

Learn about the main parts of gas grills and get DIY tips for replacing gas grill parts.…