Gas control of gas stove burners and ovens: what is it and why is it needed?

Many apartments and houses still have gas stoves. Most often, owners have no choice, because if there is a gas pipe, then an electric stove may simply not be suitable due to high electricity consumption.

However, gas is a dangerous substance, and its leakage can lead to catastrophic consequences. But manufacturers think about safety, so almost every modern stove has a gas control system. Let's look at what it is - gas control of burners and ovens, how it works and whether it is worth buying a stove with this option at all.

Design and principle of operation

The essence of the gas control is extremely simple - if the fire is extinguished by something, accidentally or not, then the gas stops flowing to the burner, thereby preventing its leakage and accumulation in the apartment. The most popular reasons for the unintentional extinguishing of a fire are considered to be a draft or boiled-over liquid.

But how does the system figure out that the fire has gone out? In fact, the gas control device is extremely simple. The main part can be called a thermocouple - these are two fused metal wires from different materials, the end of which is led to the burner, namely to the fire.

When you turn the stove handle, the fire turns on, the wire heats up and creates an electromagnetic field - this is the basis for the operation of the gas stove thermocouple.

This field affects the magnet to which the handle of the plate is connected. The magnet acts on the spring, opening the gas supply valve. If the fire suddenly stops, the wire will no longer heat up and, therefore, create an electromagnetic field. The gas control valve will simply close without the action of the magnet and the gas supply will stop.

If this happens, then simply repeat the ignition. It will take 5 to 20 seconds for the thermocouple to heat up again. All this time you will have to hold the burner knob in the desired position, otherwise the cold thermocouple will extinguish the flame again.

If previously the thermocouple was connected as a whole to the hob, now it is connected separately to each burner. If one burner stops working due to a breakdown in the gas control system, the rest will be able to cook dinner.

The device is quite simple, but proven, so malfunctions occur extremely rarely. It is also important that the operation of the gas control is completely autonomous and does not require electricity - this will ensure uninterrupted protection of the apartment even when the lights are off.

The main causes of gas oven malfunctions

Here are the main reasons why the oven in a gas stove does not work well or does not work:

The thermocouple tip may have moved from the place where it should be located, and for this reason the oven does not warm up enough. To correct this failure, you need to place the tip exactly in the flame

You can do this yourself, acting carefully and accurately.

The thermocouple tip became very dirty during oven operation. In this situation, the oven may not work well or stop functioning altogether.

You can clean it yourself by watching a video or reading tips on the Internet. Other failures in the gas control system that require specialist intervention. There is no point in looking for causes and eliminating them on your own. It's best to call a professional. Who exactly to call can be found in the newspaper or on the Internet.

It is not always possible to determine the cause on your own, so it is better not to try. Even masters can make mistakes.

Advantages and disadvantages

The main advantage of gas control is safety. News reports often contain reports of gas explosions in residential buildings. All of them could have been prevented if the stove had a working gas control system.

This option is especially useful for families with small, inquisitive children or elderly and slightly absent-minded parents.

The gas control system allows:

• relax a little and don’t sit in the kitchen all the time cooking to watch the fire;
• prevent accidental gas leaks, and therefore explosions, fires and poisonings;
• provide protection from children who like to twist the handles. When you press it briefly and release it again, the gas stops flowing. Usually the child is not able to hold the handle in one position long enough to allow the gas to turn on.

But such a system also has negative sides:

1. The first thing people complain about is how long it takes to turn on the burner. The fact is that the thermocouple sensor does not heat up instantly, so the knobs must be held for about 5 seconds before the gas control starts working. If the stove is old or not properly maintained, this time can be increased to 20 seconds.
2. The second negative point is related to the fact that the gas control is a device made up of several parts. This means that it may break, malfunction, or simply not work. This is quite rare, but still occurs. Replacing or repairing this system yourself is not so difficult, but it is dangerous and prohibited by law.
3. The third common complaint from people is that the gas control is activated even on a small fire and turns it off. That is, it will not be possible to simmer the porridge over low heat, since it will constantly simmer. This is not a completely correct situation - ideally this should not happen. Most likely, we are talking about loose thermocouple contacts, so it is better to call a technician.

A separate category of people is based on the fact that previously there was no gas control in the stoves, and everyone lived somehow. In their opinion, this option only increases the cost of the gas stove. In fact, the prices for equipment without and with gas control are approximately equal. The difference of a couple of thousand rubles is completely incommensurate with the security that this system provides.

Alternative option

Well, yes, there is also an alternative option, in some cases simpler - completely disabling this system. Personally, I think that this should be a last resort if you can’t buy the spare part you need (thermocouple or solenoid valve).

There are several options here; I’ll rank them from the simplest and most hands-on to the more serious:

1. Find a way to temporarily fix the gas control button in the pressed position - tuck something in, screw it in, etc.
2. Almost the same thing, but more beautiful - cut off the button in the right place, press it inward and glue some kind of plug into its hole with super glue. It will look civilized from the outside, the problem is solved.
3. Disassemble the plate, disassemble the cylinder and remove the spring/valve. It is possible to fix it there somehow, such as wrapping electrical tape around it, fum tape, gluing it, etc.

But it’s better, of course, not to be stingy, not to be lazy and fix it: as you can see, it’s not that difficult!

How to determine a breakdown?

Usually, if we are talking about a breakdown of the gas control, this becomes immediately obvious, since the hob simply will not work. In this case, they most often talk about a broken thermocouple. A failed thermocouple is considered a potentially dangerous breakdown and therefore requires immediate repair.

But there are also a number of not so obvious signs that will help identify the problem. These include:

• the fire goes out for no reason during cooking;
• the fire goes out after lowering the handle;
• the fire ignites after a long time interval after turning on the stove;
• when the flame is blown out, gas still flows;
• gas control of the oven turns off the flame during operation;
• the oven does not turn on;
• other malfunctions or malfunctions of the mechanism.

How to change a thermocouple?

Only a specialist should replace the device, as this is very dangerous. If the fastening is not airtight, then any breakdown of the device will give a spark, which will cause the gas stove to explode. To avoid a fire in your home, do not replace the thermocouple yourself, but ask a specialist to do it.

To replace the device, you will need to buy a new thermocouple from a specialized store. When choosing this device, choose only a high-quality device that will serve you for many years. Before buying a new device, consult with a specialist who will recommend exactly the sensor that is suitable for your gas stove or water heater.

Replacing a thermocouple sensor on a gas boiler is a little more complicated. In a gas boiler, a thermocouple made of chromium and aluminum or chromel and copel is most often used; an iron constant is less often used. All of these metals are designed to withstand high temperatures, and such sensors are often used in the foundry industry.

The gas boiler control system consists of an electromagnetic valve and a thermocouple.

To replace a device, you need to follow a series of sequential steps.

1. Using a wrench, unscrew the nuts that secure the thermocouple to the solenoid valve, then you need to remove one of the ends of the thermocouple.
2. Inspect the connectors. If they contain various contaminants or oxidation, they must be cleaned. For this you will need fine-grained sandpaper.
3. Check the thermocouple sensor using a multimeter. To do this, attach one of the metal ends of the device to the multimeter, and heat the other with a lighter or torch. The multimeter reading should be within 50 mV.
4. After that, if the indicator matches the data, you need to collect it in the same sequence. If not, then most likely it will have to be replaced.

Replacing the thermocouple in the oven of a kitchen gas stove is carried out differently. First you need to remove the lid of the gas stove; it is located on the opposite side from where the oven tap handle is located.

Remove the cap, but first clean it with sandpaper. If the terminal is removed, the cap rotates freely. When you see the center valve, check it. If it is faulty, it needs to be replaced. Remove the terminal by pulling it downwards with your fingers. Remove the cap and turn off the valve on the gas riser; now you can connect the burner and check the operation of the device.

After this, use a wrench to unscrew the nut and carry out diagnostics. Check the valve and thermocouple separately.

Causes

It is important to understand why the gas control system may fail.

If we are talking about a long time to ignite the fire when turning on the stove, then most likely the problem is a dirty thermocouple. Someone solves this problem by simply fixing the handle in the required position so as not to hold it manually.

It is better to eliminate the problem itself and call a specialist for this. If you have the skills to repair electrical equipment, then you can do it yourself - simply by removing the hob and cleaning the heating element.

If after this the problem does not disappear, then we can talk about a malfunction of the gas control system. It could be:

• solenoid valve wear;
• displacement of the thermoelement relative to the flame;
• stupor of the burner tap;
• bad contact.

There are also possible more distant reasons for the unsatisfactory operation of the stove - for example, insufficient gas pressure. It can be caused either by problems at the gas distribution substation or by a gas tap in the apartment that is not fully open.

If the problem is in the tap, then you just need to open it all the way. If the reason is in the substation, then you will have to submit an application to the local gas department.

There are few options for what to do if the gas control breaks down. It is best to immediately contact a specialist, since independent repairs are prohibited.

Nuances

The mode and operating principle of gas control has some nuances:

• For each ignition, you need to wait 15–20 seconds until the required temperature is reached.
• If the ignition time increases, it means that the electric couple is clogged or dirty.
• It is unacceptable to independently change the operation of the system in an attempt to reduce the ignition time.
• The reason for lack of ignition is not always the gas control sensor. Sometimes fuel may not flow into the burner due to clogged holes.

To avoid problems and fines, be sure to call a professional if there is any problem with your gas equipment.

Is it possible to turn off the gas control yourself?

Correct and safe installation, connection/disconnection and even operation of gas stoves rest on the shoulders of apartment owners and tenants. This responsibility is spelled out in the Civil Code of the Russian Federation, in Article 210.

If you want to turn off gas equipment without permission, you must read the document called “Building Codes and Rules for Gas Supply 2.04.08-87.” It says in black and white that it is necessary to call a qualified specialist with a certificate from the Gas Inspectorate and a certificate.

You can try to disable the gas control system yourself only if you have already had experience in repairing similar devices, and their structure seems familiar.

The most important thing to do is turn off the gas supply. In addition, it is important to follow the following safety rules :

• completely de-energize the kitchen and remove all self-powered appliances - even smartphones;
• open the window wide;
• turn off the tap on the gas stove and unplug the appliance from the socket;
• put a plug on the pipe;
• check the quality of the plug using a soap solution - it should not bubble;
• If the solution bubbles, there are whistling sounds or a smell of gas, you must urgently call emergency services.

After that:

1. Open the gas control system;
2. Disconnect the thermocouple - this is done with a key;
3. Remove the solenoid valve;
4. Remove the spring from the valve;
5. Insert valve;
6. If desired, attach a thermocouple;
7. Assemble the slab;
8. Check the quality of the connections with a soap solution.

How to turn off the oven gas control. How to do it directly at GEFEST

The procedure does not look complicated, but you need to understand that there is interaction with an explosive substance. If such repairs are discovered, the regulatory authorities have the right to impose a fine.

If a person considers the gas control function unnecessary and wants to disable it, then it is best to call a specialist who will carry out this procedure. After this, the controller must make entries in the device operation book indicating the date and reason for this procedure.

Possible breakdowns and their diagnosis

The cause of a system malfunction may be its contamination, wear of the valve and electrical couple, displacement of the sensor, as well as a break in the connection of parts. Regardless of the complexity of the repair, first of all call a specialist from the appropriate service.

With proper experience in diagnosing and repairing gas furnaces, you can restore gas control yourself, however, if the service notices steps to open the system, you can run into a fine. If no external damage is visible:

1. Turn off the gas supply.
2. Unscrew the back cover of the oven.
3. Disconnect the system elements.
4. Clean the system elements with a brush using regular detergent and dry thoroughly.

If the procedure does not help, the cause of the breakdown is probably wear and tear of the parts.

Popular models of stoves with gas control and reviews of them

When purchasing a stove, you need to check the presence of gas control not only on the burners, but also in the oven. Different stove models have different equipment. We invite you to familiarize yourself with the rating of the most popular gas stoves with gas control.

Gefest 6100-03 0001

This model has a gas control system and electric ignition on the burners and in the oven. The stylish brown color will allow the device to fit into the kitchen in a classic style. Of the four burners, one has a quick heating function. Produced in Belarus.

There is a grill mode with a power of 1.9 kW, as well as a spit. It is convenient to use, there is a display and a drawer for storing utensils. Easy to care for. No disadvantages identified.

Cost: about 20 thousand rubles.

Review analysis: all customers like this copy. There are no complaints about the functionality or quality of parts. There are nuances that could have been avoided, but they do not cause any problems. For example, an electronic watch could only be replaced with a mechanical timer - it is simpler, cheaper and more convenient. In general, people are absolutely satisfied with their purchase - this is one of the best models on the market.

Lada 14.120-03 WH

Budget and small-sized model made in Russia. There is a grill mode with a power of 1.5 kW. Simple controls, excellent oven lighting, automatic ignition of burners and gas control - all these functions make the stove an excellent purchase for older people who need simple and understandable appliances.

Cost: about 7 thousand rubles.

Analysis of reviews : this model is popular due to its price, but the quality is criticized in the reviews - the iron is thin, the paint does not stick to the grates, the sides of the baking sheet are low. Rather, this budget option is suitable for a summer house or a rented apartment.

Gefest 5502-03 0044

Another stylish stove from Belarus. This time it's black. Oven with a capacity of 52 liters with grill, spit, convection and even steam cleaning. It will look great in a modern style kitchen. No deficiencies found.

Cost: about 24 thousand rubles.

Analysis of reviews : not everyone can quickly get used to the electric ignition of this model, but it is not complicated. Most reviews emphasize the appearance of the device. But they also notice some disadvantages, for example, the black glossy surface needs to be washed almost every day, because after cooking every spot is visible on it. The functionality of the stove is simple and reliable.

Darina S4 GM441 101 W

Another white classic model without any frills. But this time it’s worth highlighting a powerful grill - 2.6 kW - perfect for lovers of baked poultry or barbecue. Russian production. An excellent budget option with the usual dimensions for the kitchen. The switches are mechanical, but comfortable. The oven has double glass, but it’s large—you don’t have to open the door to look at the dish being prepared. No drawer for utensils.

Cost: about 10 thousand rubles.

Review analysis : users note that the instructions include a drawer for utensils, but in reality there is none. Since the model is budget, no complex things or functions are expected from it in advance, so buyers are satisfied. The only common problem is rust on the burners.

Gorenje GI 5321 XF

Gas stove from Slovenia with a huge 67-liter oven. There is gas control, auto-ignition and even an electronic timer separately for the hob and oven. You can highlight telescopic guides - the baking sheet itself moves out when you open the oven door.

Cost: about 34 thousand rubles.

Analysis of reviews : the main disadvantage of this model is the lack of a thermometer, so it is not clear whether the oven is warm enough to cook in it. Some people don’t like the fact that the electric ignition turns on on all burners at once, and not just on the one whose handle is turned. But these are trifles; the advantages like electronic separate timers and a thermostat outweigh. They are satisfied with the stove.

Gorenje GI 62 CLI

Another model from the Slovenian manufacturer with full gas control (both hob and oven). It is not made in the classic white color, but has an ivory tone, which is suitable for a classic interior, Provence and similar trends. The advantages include: timer, alarm clock, bottled gas nozzle and Aqua Clean cleaning.

Cost: about 33 thousand rubles.

Analysis of reviews : in this case, buyers agree that they are overpaying for the beautiful appearance of the stove, since it does not represent anything special in terms of functionality. It works well, but there are also minor flaws - for example, the grate is not quite level, the oven door is not closing quite smoothly, and so on.

Gefest 3200-08

Another Belarusian stove. It is distinguished by good quality and budget price, which determines the enormous popularity of this model. It has a small width of 50 cm, so it will fit even in the smallest kitchen, but for a large family it may not be very convenient. One burner has a quick heating function. There is a drawer for dishes. An excellent classic model without unnecessary bells and whistles.

Cost: about 9 thousand rubles.

Review analysis : buyers note that this is the best budget model on the market. But there are also small drawbacks, for example, for some, after two months of active use, the handles begin to turn tightly - you need to make an effort. Some people find the grate slippery because pans and pots roll around. The main reviews of this stove from Hephaestus boil down to the fact that the stove is simple but reliable.

In reviews, many tell stories about how gas control came in handy. For some, children were simply playing, for others, elderly parents set the soup to cook and forgot. After stories like this, they have no questions about whether gas control is needed in a gas stove and oven or not.

How should gas burn properly?

A necessary condition for the combustion of gas in household appliances is its combustion when oxygen is supplied. The main component of natural gas is methane. The combustion process consists of the oxidation of methane with oxygen contained in the air mixture. For complete combustion of 1 liter of gas, 2 liters of pure oxygen or approximately 10 liters of air mixture are required. When natural gas burns completely, it releases heat, light, carbon dioxide and water vapor. In this case, the flame has a blue color. The supply of the required amount of air mixture for combustion is ensured by the injection function. With the help of an injector built into the hob, atmospheric air is sucked in and mixed with gas. The burners light correctly if:

• The gas burns silently blue.
• The flame is even and strong.
• Lights up without popping.
• Combustion proceeds silently.
• The flame does not go out when the regulator is set to the minimum value.

Briefly about the power of the burners and stove

The total power of the working surface depends on the number of burners and their direct power, indicated in the equipment passport. The average for one burner is 2-2.5 kW. With decent gas quality and normal pressure in the line, this value is quite enough for comfortable and relatively quick heat treatment of products. In this case, the maximum power of the burner is determined when the regulator is turned to the maximum and gas is fully supplied.

Manufacturers often offer household hobs, the burners of which have different power ratings:

• on small ones - 0.7-1.2 kW;
• on average - 1.3-1.8 kW;
• on large ones - up to 4 kW and more.

Such a technological solution is quite logical and convenient: it makes no sense to brew coffee in a Turk on a powerful WOK burner or try to boil a large volume of water on a small one. Choosing different capacities allows you to save gas, and if the room temperature is maintained using an air conditioner, you can also save electricity.

When using powerful burners, the air warms up more due to heat transfer, so climate control equipment will need more resources for cooling

Thus, the acceptable parameters for the calorific value of the gas used by a hob from the middle price segment, consisting of 4 burners, is 8-10 kW. More budget models usually have a total power of 5-7 kW.

Cooking surfaces with a high calorific value for normal safe operation may require the installation of a separate chimney or the installation of a heavy-duty hood. However, for home use, purchasing such models is not always advisable.

Gas stoves with two- and three-circuit burners are especially popular. The so-called double or triple “crown” is a powerful burner in which the flame is produced not in one row, but in several circles. This device allows you to cook faster and heat dishes more evenly.

Which stove is better to buy?

It is extremely difficult to choose a good stove with a gas control function without recommendations, reading reviews, or familiarizing yourself with the technical features. After reviewing the presented TOP, you can provide some recommendations for selection. If there are no financial difficulties, you want to get a device of the highest quality, it is better to give preference to Electrolux EKG 951108 X. The best choice in terms of price-quality ratio is DARINA 1B GM441 105 W. As for models in the mid-price range, with optimal technical characteristics, additional functions, We can highlight Beko FSGT 51138 GSS, Gorenje G 5112 WF-B.

How to disable the system

The system ensures safety, but brings some inconveniences, the main of which is an increase in the time it takes to turn on the stove and unstable operation of the burners if the mechanism breaks down.

In this regard, many users refuse the gas control function in a gas stove. To disable the feature, you must do the following:

1. Close the valve supplying gas to the device.
2. Determine the location of the system (it is different for all models).
3. Disconnect the thermocouples from the solenoid valve.
4. Remove the valve.
5. Unscrew the spring that provides the gas supply/shutoff mechanism.
6. Reinstall the valve and reassemble the entire mechanism.

It is when the spring is removed that the solenoid valve loses its ability to control the gas supply.