How to Troubleshoot a Gas Grill's Electric Starter?

Gas grills typically ignite with one of two electric starter types, either a Piezo system with a plunger push-button or a battery-operated electronic starter. Both starter systems produce a spark under the burner while gas flows around it, causing the fuel to ignite. Troubleshooting a problem starter takes only a few minutes. Solve basic problems yourself, such as a corroded igniter tip, so you can get back to grilling. 

1. Turn all grill control knobs to the "off" position and close the gas valve to the appliance. The knob for a propane system is on the top of the tank. Natural gas lines are equipped with a handle that turns 90 degrees clockwise to shut off fuel.

2. Press the igniter button on the front control panel while inspecting the underside of the grill. Follow the wire from the back of the control panel to the bottom of the grill where the igniter is mounted beneath the burners. You should see a spark at the tip of the igniter when pressing the button on the front panel. If not, continue troubleshooting.

3. Push the clip on each end of the wire onto the terminal at the base of the igniter under the grill and the back of the control panel, using needle nose pliers. If the clip is bent or loose at either end, squeeze it gently with the pliers for a tighter fit on the terminals. Press the igniter button again to watch for a spark.

4. Clean the tip of the igniter with a piece of steel wool to remove corrosion and dirt, then test for a spark.

5. Open the compartment at the bottom of the control panel to install a 9-volt battery for grills with electronic igniter systems. Close the compartment and test again. If the igniter fails to spark after all troubleshooting attempts, the part is likely worn out and must be replaced.