What Are the Parts of a Gas Stove Called? Names Explained

Whether you just moved into your first apartment or are looking to brush up on your culinary skills, familiarizing yourself with the various components of a gas stove is essential. Gas stoves may look straightforward, but they contain many intricate parts that allow you to cook meals with precision.

With some basic knowledge of these components, operating your stove will feel much more intuitive. You'll also be able to troubleshoot minor issues and keep your appliance running smoothly for years to come.

Burners: The Heart of the Stove

The burners are essentially the "engines" of a gas stove, providing the flames needed to heat up pots and pans. On most stovetops, you'll see between four and six individual burners. Here are the main parts that make up a burner:

• Burner head - The top section from which the flames emerge. These are typically made of cast iron or enameled steel.
• Burner base - The bottom section that attaches to the gas valve and allows gas to flow up to the burner head.
• Grate - A metallic grate that sits over the burner head. This provides a stable surface for pots and pans.
• Burner cap - Removable caps that cover the opening of the burner head. These promote even flames.

Additionally, burners can either be "open" or "sealed." Open burners are the most common variety, with flames emanating from an uncovered burner head. Sealed burners have a solid metal plate with tiny perforations covering the burner openings.

How Burners Work

When you turn your stove knob to the ON position, it opens the gas valve, allowing gas to flow from the supply line up to the base of the burner. The gas then travels up small tubes in the burner base and out holes in the burner head, where it can be ignited.

The constant supply of gas flowing to the burner head sustains the flames. Adjusting the knob increases or decreases gas flow, making the flames larger or smaller depending on the amount of heat needed.

Control Knobs Give You Command

The control knobs (also called valve knobs or gas valves) on a gas stove allow you to safely operate the burners. Most stoves will have one control knob for each burner positioned on the front or top of the cooktop. These knobs perform two vital functions:

• Turning the burner on and off. Turning the knob counterclockwise opens the gas valve, while turning clockwise closes it.
• Adjusting flame height. How far you turn the knob changes the size of the flame.

Knob Styles Vary

While all knobs serve the same general purpose, their physical design can differ. Common styles include:

• Round knobs - The traditional style with ridges for grip. You turn these clockwise or counterclockwise.
• Lever handles - Some models have lever-style knobs that you flip up or down to adjust.
• Buttons - Push-button controls that electronically operate the gas valves.

Gas Valves: Controlling Gas Flow

A crucial but unseen part of the stove, gas valves regulate the flow of gas from the supply line to each burner. Opening, closing, and calibrating these valves is how control knobs adjust your flame.

Some specific types of gas valves include:

• Manual valves - The most common variety, turned on and off by the control knobs.
• Safety shut-off valves - Designed to automatically cut the gas supply if the flame is extinguished.

On many models, the gas valves are attached directly behind the control knob panel. However, some stoves have valves located behind the cooktop instead. Consult your owner's manual to learn where the gas valves reside on your unit.

Maintaining Valves

Gas valves contain small openings that can get blocked over time, preventing them from working properly. Try cleaning valves periodically by scrubbing with a small wire brush or pipe cleaner. Also, listen for any unusual hissing sounds, which could indicate a faulty valve.

Ignition Systems Provide the Spark

For a gas stove burner to light, a spark or flame needs to ignite the gas as it flows from the valve. This is the job of the ignition system. There are two main types used in most modern gas stoves:

Standing Pilot Lights

Many standard gas ranges have pilot lights - small, continuously burning flames located next to each burner. When you turn the knob, the standing pilot instantly ignites the gas.

A major downside is that pilot lights use a constant supply of gas, even when the stove is not on. Newer models have moved away from this system.

Electric Igniters

Electric igniters are a more energy-efficient alternative. When you turn the knob, they create an instant spark that lights the burner flame. The spark immediately stops once the gas ignites.

Electric igniters require no standing gas supply and light burners on demand. They have become the most popular choice for modern gas stoves.

Ignition Control

Some ranges with electric ignition also have an ignition control feature. This allows you to adjust the intensity of the igniter spark based on how easily your stove lights. A stronger spark helps ensure the burner flame starts right away every time.

Other Important Gas Stove Parts

In addition to the core components above, gas stoves incorporate various other parts that improve performance and safety:

Burner Grates

These metallic grates cover each burner, providing a stable surface for pots and pans to rest on. Quality grates evenly distribute heat and prevent cookware from slipping down between the burners.

Grease Filters

Small mesh filters placed over the burner holes help prevent grease and food particles from dripping down into the gas lines. This debris can clog the openings over time and reduce burner efficiency.

Flame Sensors

Some high-end models have sensors that constantly monitor the burner flames. If any anomaly is detected, more gas is automatically released to maintain the proper flame strength and height.

Thermostat

The oven thermostat controls the interior temperature, communicating with the gas valve to raise or lower heat as needed. It allows you to precisely regulate the oven for optimal cooking.

Broiler

Many gas oven ranges have an upper broiler that generates intense heat from above for searing. This lets you get that crispy, charred finish on meats and other dishes.

While gas stoves may appear straightforward on the surface, they contain many intricate components working together to empower your cooking. Now that you know the function of burners, knobs, valves, igniters, and more, operating your stove will feel much more intuitive.

With a good knowledge of these parts, you can repair your appliance on your own. So turn on those burners and start cooking with confidence!