How to fix the hob that sparks by itself
In this tutorial we’ll discuss the problems due to the hob catenary.
It can happen that the hob can start sparking, this can depend from, two factors. In most cases, the problem is caused by the infiltration of water into the electrical parts. For example, when the water comes out of the pot, or when we wash the hob, some drops can penetrate into it, causing continuity between the electrical contacts and then, the sparking.
In these cases, we recommend that you remove the power cord from the mains, wait about 24/48 hours so that the contacts will be dry, hoping that everything will work normally. If after this time, connecting the cable to the electrical outlet, the hob continues to spark by itself, then the problem lies in the catenary.
In these cases, you need to access into the hob and replace this device called “Catenary”. Click here to see the guide on how to open the hob.
Now that we have access to the inside of the hob, we can identify the catenary. (see image).
The catenary consists of a series of buttons connected to each other, docked to the gas valves. When we press one of the gas knobs, we exert pressure on the button that closes the electrical contact, consequently, the sparks strike and the corresponding burner ignites. The accumulation of grease and/or the formation of oxide on the catenary, can cause the closure of one or more contacts in a permanent way, in these cases it’s necessary to replace it.
To remove it, we must unlatch all the buttons. Each button is locked on the valve by elastic force, therefore, a slight pressure with the fingers will suffice and the button will come off. Once all the buttons that make up the catenary have been removed, we disconnect the two fastons that keep it connected to the electrical system and to the spark generator.
Now, if we haven’t already done it, we must get the new catenary. We can buy it from a retailer of confidence, or directly online and connect it by performing the reverse procedure. If the instructions have been correctly executed we’ll see that the problem will have disappeared.
We test the operation before reassembling all the components of the hob.
Before reassembling everything, it’s important to test the operation with the cooking hob still open (see image).
We temporarily replace one or more burners and try the ignition. If everything works correctly, let’s proceed with the closure of the hob.
Note: (If your hob has the seals under the knobs and they are no longer intact, we strongly recommend replacing them. The seals prevent liquids and dirt from infiltrating the hob, thus limiting problems of this type .)
