If the gas in the burner is moving fast enough, the gas can’t burn down inside the burner and must burn on top of the burner where it should. If it’s moving too slowly (as it is when the gas is shut off) there is a tendency for the gas to burn down inside the burner tube, causing the extinction pop.
So you probably need to lool for ways to increase the gas flow through the burner a bit — by checking to make sure you have a properly sized burner orifice, proper manifold gas pressure and a properly adjusted and clean primary air shutter.
This is not generally a hazard —just an annoyance.
If your gas burner doesn’t immediately turn off when you switch it off and then “explodes,” it likely means there’s a buildup of gas around the burner due to a faulty valve or a clogged burner port, causing a sudden ignition when enough gas accumulates and finds an ignition source, which could be a spark from the igniter or even just a nearby flame; this is a serious safety concern and you should immediately turn off the gas supply to your stove and call a professional appliance repair technician to diagnose and fix the issue.
Possible reasons for this problem:
- Faulty burner valve:The valve might not be closing completely, allowing gas to continue leaking even when the knob is turned off.
- Clogged burner ports:Grease or debris can build up in the burner holes, disrupting the gas flow and causing uneven burning or delayed ignition.
- Damaged flame spreader:The metal plate distributing the flame could be damaged, causing gas to escape unevenly.
- Faulty thermocouple:This safety device, which keeps the gas valve open when a flame is present, might be malfunctioning, allowing gas to continue flowing even when the flame is extinguished.
What to do:
- Turn off the gas supply:Immediately locate the gas shut-off valve under your stove or near your gas line and turn it off.
- Do not attempt to light the burner:Do not try to light the burner yourself as this could worsen the situation.
- Ventilate the area:Open windows and doors to air out the kitchen.
- Call a professional:Contact a licensed appliance repair technician to diagnose and fix the problem.
Important safety points to remember:
- Never ignore gas leaks: If you smell gas, evacuate your home immediately and call the gas company.
- Regular maintenance: Clean your stovetop regularly to prevent buildup of grease and food debris on the burner.
- Inspect burner components: Check the burner ports for clogs and ensure the flame spreader is properly seated.