Problem:
I have a Whirlpool oven in the US, model WFG540H0ES0 (photo). It's worked fine for the last 3.5 years, but a few weeks ago the oven stopped igniting. When I start the oven in the control panel, the following sequence takes place:
- I can hear the gas valve open and gas starts flowing out
- The gas valve closes a second later, stopping the flow of gas
- Igniter then sparks 4 times, but by that time there is no more gas coming out
Here's a video that demonstrates the issue. I lit a candle next to the vents so you can see gas come out for a split second, but then the gas shuts off before the igniter starts sparking.
Solutions I've tried:
- Some Youtube videos online suggested I replace the igniter, so I purchased this replacement online and installed it, but the problem is exactly the same so I know it's not the igniter.
- I tested the thermostat by holding a candle to it. It indicates 100°F when the oven is off, and starts climbing when the flame touches it, so I know it works.
- I've unplugged it from the wall and plugged it back again, to no avail.
I took some photos:
- Oven igniter (Since been replaced with a newer one)
- Underside where the drawer usually is (You can see the gas valve leading to the burner tube)
- Gas valves from behind the oven (One pipe leads to the broiler, the other to the stovetop range, which works fine)
Questions:
- What is the determining part that tells the gas valve to shut off so I can clean or replace it? I know it must have a sensor that automatically shuts off the gas if a flame is not detected (to prevent flooding the house with gas), but where is this sensor? I've scoured the parts list here but I don't see anything that suggest it's a flame sensor.
- Does anyone have any solutions to my issue? I already replaced the spark igniter, which didn't work. I'm trying to fix the oven myself because we're in quarantine and don't want to ask a repairman to come into our house.