WB13K21 Oven Igniter (WB13K21) – What Part Fixes This Problem?

Understanding the Problem

What is the WB13K21? It's a flat-style hot-surface oven igniter used on many gas ranges and ovens (GE and equivalents). The igniter heats until it reaches a temperature that allows the gas safety valve to open and the burner to light. When the igniter fails or weakens, the oven will not heat even though the control and gas are working. Step-by-step diagnosis and repair: 1) Confirm the symptom: If the oven won't heat (bake), but the broiler or surface burners work, suspect the bake igniter (often WB13K21). A long preheat time or faint/weak orange glow from the bake igniter are classic signs. 2) Visual inspection: Remove the lower oven access panel and visually check the igniter while calling for heat. A healthy igniter will glow bright orange/white. A weak igniter will glow dimly or not at all. 3) Check for continuity: With power off and the range unplugged, disconnect the igniter and check continuity with a multimeter. Most bad igniters show open circuit. Continuity alone doesn't guarantee correct operating current, but an open reading means replacement is needed. 4) Check voltage during call for heat: With the oven calling for heat (and all safety precautions in place), measure voltage at the igniter connector (careful — this is live). You should see 120VAC. If voltage is present but the igniter doesn't glow properly, the igniter is weak and must be replaced. If there's no voltage, troubleshoot the control board, thermostat/selector switch, or wiring. 5) Prepare to replace: Turn off both electrical power and shut off gas to the appliance. Allow the oven to cool completely. 6) Remove access panels: Open the oven door, remove the oven racks, unscrew and remove the lower oven access panel or the bottom panel of the oven cavity to access the igniter and burner assembly. 7) Disconnect igniter: Unplug or unscrew the igniter's electrical connector. Remove the mounting screws that secure the igniter to the burner box. Handle the igniter by its metal base; avoid touching the ceramic surface with bare hands. 8) Install new igniter (WB13K21): Fit the new igniter into the same position, secure with screws, and reconnect the electrical connector. Make sure wiring is routed away from burner and moving parts. 9) Reassemble and test: Reinstall panels and racks, restore gas and power, then run the oven on bake. The new igniter should glow strongly and the gas valve should open within 30–90 seconds of glow (typical). Monitor for normal ignition and no gas odor. 10) Final checks: Verify consistent heating and complete preheat times. If the igniter glows but no gas flows, you may have a failed gas safety valve and should test/replace it. Safety note: Always shut off electrical power and gas before working on a gas appliance. If you're not comfortable working around gas and live voltage, hire a qualified technician. Gas leaks are dangerous—if you smell gas, stop, ventilate, and call your gas company or a professional immediately.

Common Symptoms

Oven won't reach temperature or won't heat at all; very long preheat; igniter glows weak/dim or not at all; broiler may still work; clicking or repeated attempts to light followed by shutdown.

Common Causes

• Worn or cracked hot-surface igniter (WB13K21) that no longer draws enough current to open the gas valve
• Loose, corroded or broken wiring/connector to the igniter
• Control board, thermostat/selector switch, or gas safety valve failure (less common)

Popular Parts That Fix This Problem

These are the most common replacement parts that fix this problem. When you're ready to order, click below to find the right part at ProsourceParts.com — just search by your appliance model number for a guaranteed fit.

Frequently Asked Questions