A gas stove knob stuck on happens as lubrication decreases, debris collects or you miss out on cleaning for a few days. The cleaning must also be done properly otherwise the knob will keep being stuck on.
You will learn the common reasons of a gas knob being stuck on. You will also figure out how to get it unstuck for good!
Key Takeaway
Why Is Your Gas Stove Knob Stuck On?
A gas stove knob allows you to control the flow of gas coming from the stove. It is not supposed to be stuck.
Because it can be dangerous if the knob is stuck in the open or “on” position. Continuously releasing fuel can become a serious danger in that case.
The knob getting stuck can be due to various reasons. These could be physical jamming, cheap parts, or a problem with the burner gas valve.
Here’s why your has stove knob gets stuck on:
- Debris accumulation.
- Grease and grime clogging up the inner workings of the knob.
- Cheap parts getting stuck.
- Lack of regular cleaning of the gas stove knob from inside.
- Rust or corrosion can also cause the knob to get stuck.
- If the knob is broken or cannot be fixed, it needs to be replaced with a new one.
- The knob can be loose on the valve shaft.
- The valve shaft can be loose or wobbly.
How To Unstuck a Gas Stove Knob That’s Stuck?
If your gas stove knob is stuck, there are several steps you can take to try to fix it. Here are some ways to unstick a gas stove knob:
Step – 1
Turn off the gas supply to the stove to stay safe. Then open all the windows around the house.
Step – 2
Do not pull the plastic knob off. There should be a metal peg sticking out (the plastic knob fits over it).
Step – 3
Check for broken parts, dirt, or grime. Also carefully check for wobbly knob.
Look around where the knob connects to the stove. Sometimes, dirt or food bits can block it. Clean that area gently.
If it’s still stuck, put a tiny bit of cooking oil or a similar lubricant on the part that’s stuck. Try turning the knob again.
You can also gently tap the knob and wiggle it. This might help it come free. If this does not solve the issue, proceed with the following steps.
If machine oil is not available, there are other lubricants that can be used to fix a stuck gas stove knob.
- Mustard oil: It can be used to lubricate the knob and make it function smoothly.
- White lithium grease: This is a heavy-duty lubricant that can be used to lubricate the knob. A small amount can grease the knob and turn it gently to distribute the lubricant.
- Cooking oil: Any type of cooking oil, such as vegetable oil or olive oil, can be used to lubricate the knob. Apply a small amount of oil to the knob and turn it gently to distribute the lubricant.
- Petroleum jelly: This is a multi-purpose lubricant. Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the knob and turn it gently to distribute the lubricant.
Step – 4
Upon finding of any of the above, call an expert. The main point of a stuck knob is to never try to fix it yourself. This will cause accidents.
Rather, engage someone who has experience and knowledge of the gas stove knobs. If the knob is broken, they will replace it. On the other hand, if the knob is loose on the valve shaft, they might change the valve shaft.
Why Is Your Gas Stove Knob Loose After Unstuck?
The gas stove knob loose after being unstuck could be due to the knob being damaged during the unsticking. Sometimes, instead of the knob getting stuck, it breaks.
You will know the knob is broken if the knob is turning loosely without any traction. Find a gas stove knob replacement that fits properly.
You can find the model number for your stove to find a replacement knob that fits properly. If you still have your owner’s manual, check it for this information.
Other places you might find the model number include:
- Inside the oven door along the frame.
- Behind the rear control panel.
- Under the cooktop if it lifts.
- On an electric stove, under the left front burner.
- Inside the drawer.
If the knob is not broken, it could be that the knob is not properly seated on the valve stem. Remove and reseat the knob on the valve stem.
See no change? You may need to replace the knob with a new one that fits properly. Gas stove knob replacements can be found and purchased from the hardware store.
Removal of a gas knob must always be done by a professional.
How To Check Leaks on A Gas Stove Knob Stuck On?
To check for leaks on a gas stove knob stuck on, follow these steps:
- Turn off the gas supply to the stove to stay safe.
- Check the gas line for leaks. Apply a solution of soapy water to the gas line and look for bubbles. If you see bubbles, there is a leak.
- Look for smells of gas, yellowish or orangish flame, whistling noises etc. These indicate a gas leak. Moreover, you may feel nauseous or dizzy if there’s a gas leak.
- If you find a leak, keep the gas supply to the stove off and call a professional to fix the leak. Do not try to fix the leak yourself.
If you do not find a leak, turn the gas supply back on and test the stove to make sure it is working properly.
What To Avoid When Unsticking Gas Stove Knob?
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when fixing a gas stove knob that is leaking:
Attempting to unstick the knob yourself: Do not beat around the bush with something as intricate as a gas knob. You might end up causing bigger leaks or worse accidents. Call a professional.
Using the wrong tools: Kitchen oil, petroleum jelly, soapy water as DIY fixes and diagnostic tool is fine.
But don’t go on to use harder tools (a screwdriver, hammer or corrosives) to fix the issue. More importantly, don’t try to fix the issue yourself at all!
Forcing the knob: Do not force the knob to turn if it is stuck. Forcing the knob can cause further damage to the knob or the stove.
Not checking for leaks: After fixing the knob, make sure the professional you called check for leaks. You can do yourself too.
Not turning off the gas supply: Before attempting to fix the knob, make sure to turn off the gas supply to the stove. This is very important to prevent any leaking.
Related Post: Is Electric Stove Energy Efficient? Opnions from Real Experts
Frequently Asked Question -FAQs
Is it harmful to remove gas stove knobs on a regular basis?
There is no inherent harm in removing gas stove knobs on a regular basis. However, repeatedly removing and reattaching the knobs, especially carelessly, can cause them to wear more quickly where they attach to the stems
Can I use WD40 oil on gas stove knob?
No, it is not recommended to use WD-40 oil on gas stove knobs. WD-40 is highly flammable and can dry out the knobs. It can easily get them to become stuck again.
What happens if you leave the gas stove knob turned to ‘on’?
Leaving the gas stove knob turned to ‘on’ can be dangerous. It can lead to a fire or explosion. If the knob is left on without a flame, gas builds up and creates an explosive fire risk.
