Knowledge Base Article

Category: Commercial Cooking Equipment

Article Title: “My Pilot Won't Light on My Commercial Stove — What Causes This?”

Last Updated: May 27th, 2025

Short Answer

A pilot that refuses to stay light is usually caused by one of several things here are a few common reasons: 

• insufficient gas supply

• a clogged pilot orifice

• a weak or misaligned thermocouple

• drafts blowing the flame out

• low gas pressure from the regulator

• bad pilot safety

Start by confirming gas flow and cleaning the pilot assembly; if the flame still won’t stay lit, a qualified technician should inspect the thermocouple and regulator.

Background

Commercial stoves rely on a small standing pilot flame to ignite the main burners on demand. The pilot assembly consists of a gas jet, an air mixer, and a safety thermocouple that senses flame presence. Over time, grease, dust, and scale can clog the orifice or weaken the thermocouple signal. If any link in this chain is dirty, misaligned, or starved of gas, the pilot will not light or stay lit, shutting the range down during busy service periods.

Troubleshooting Steps Before Calling a Professional

1. Confirm the main gas valve is fully open and the supply tank has fuel.

2. Check that the appliance power switch is in the ON or PILOT position.

3. In PILOT mode, verify gas flow at the pilot outlet. You may safely press and hold down the pilot and light the pilot with a long lighter.

4. Hold the pilot button for at least 60 seconds after lighting; observe whether the flame stays lit after release.

5. Look for error codes on the control panel and note any unusual flame colors (yellow/orange/green) or gas odors. If you smell gall odors  If you notice any flame discoloration call a professional. If 

Key Takeaways

• Verify gas supply and valve position before attempting to light the pilot.

• Use only a long lighter to test for gas flow in PILOT mode—never open burner valves.

• A healthy pilot flame is steady, blue, and should stay lit after 60 seconds.

• Any cleaning, adjustments, or part replacements should be performed by a licensed technician.

• Evacuate immediately and call your gas supplier or 911 if you detect gas odor.

Additional Resources

• NFPA Commercial Cooking Standards

• Southbend Service & Manuals

• MW National: Range Maintenance Tips

Need More Help?

Contact our technical support team at support@rchrc.com or call 1‑503-208-6565.

The information provided is for general guidance only and does not replace manufacturer instructions or local regulations. Always follow applicable codes and consult a licensed professional.