GE Range Burner Won't Heat or Heats Unevenly — 5 Causes & How to Fix

You turn the knob to high, wait a minute, and the burner's barely warm. Or maybe it heats on one side but stays cold on the other. Either way, you're staring at a burner that's supposed to be glowing red but isn't cooperating. This is one of the most common failures on GE, Hotpoint, and Kenmore gas ranges — and the double burner assembly (part WB16K10026) is usually the culprit.

The good news? Most burner heating issues come down to just a handful of causes, and you can diagnose most of them in under 10 minutes without calling anyone.

Quick Symptom Check

Before you pull out tools, verify what you're actually dealing with:

• Burner won't ignite at all: Click sound but no flame, or no click at all
• Uneven heating: One side of the double burner glows, the other doesn't
• Weak flame: Burner lights but flame is yellow, orange, or significantly weaker than normal
• Intermittent heating: Works sometimes, fails other times, no pattern
• No heat after cleaning: Burner stopped working right after you cleaned the stovetop

Cause #1: Clogged Burner Ports (60% Probability)

This is the most common reason for weak or uneven heating, especially if you've recently had a boil-over or cleaned the range. Food residue, grease, or cleaning solution dries inside the tiny gas ports around the burner head.

How to diagnose:

• Remove the burner grate and lift off the burner cap
• Look at the small holes around the burner ring — can you see light through all of them?
• If any ports look blocked or show crusty buildup, that's your problem

The fix: Use a straightened paperclip or a toothpick to gently clear each port. Don't use a toothpick that might break off inside. A can of compressed air works great after clearing. Reassemble and test — you should see even blue flames from all ports.

Cause #2: Failed Burner Element (25% Probability)

The burner assembly itself can fail — warped metal, cracked ceramic, or internal electrical failure. This is especially common on models JGBS20WEA, JGBS10DEL, and AGBS300 series that see heavy daily use.

How to diagnose:

• Visually inspect the burner for cracks, warping, or obvious damage
• If one side of the double burner won't heat at all (not even a glow), the element is likely shot
• Swap the suspect burner with a working one — if the problem moves with the burner, it's bad

The fix: Replace with WB16K10026 (replaces older AP2633210, WB29K17, 868697, WB16K10003). This is a direct swap on GE, Hotpoint, and Kenmore ranges. Takes about 15 minutes — just lift out the old assembly and drop in the new one. No wiring on this part.

Cause #3: Misaligned Burner Cap (8% Probability)

Sounds too simple, but it happens constantly after cleaning. The burner cap sits on top of the burner base and must align perfectly for proper gas flow. If it's even slightly off-center or tilted, you'll get uneven flames or no ignition.

How to diagnose:

• Remove the burner cap and base completely
• Look for alignment pins or notches on both pieces
• Reinstall carefully — the cap should sit flat with no wobble

The fix: Just reposition it correctly. Make sure the igniter electrode isn't bent and sits near the burner opening. Test immediately — proper alignment gives you instant ignition and even heat.

Cause #4: Weak Gas Flow or Regulator Issue (5% Probability)

If ALL burners are heating weakly (not just one), you've got a gas supply problem. This can be low pressure from your main line, a failing regulator, or a kinked flex line.

How to diagnose:

• Turn on all burners — do they all have weak yellow flames?
• Check other gas appliances in the house — water heater, furnace acting normal?
• Inspect the gas line behind the range for kinks or damage

The fix: If it's just your range, the internal regulator may need adjustment or replacement. If it's your whole house, call your gas company — you've got a supply issue. Don't mess with gas pressure yourself unless you know what you're doing.

Cause #5: Corroded Burner Base Connection (2% Probability)

The burner assembly sits in a socket that delivers gas. Over time, this connection can corrode from spills, especially if you've had vinegar or acidic cleaners run down there.

How to diagnose:

• Pull the burner assembly completely out
• Look at the brass orifice underneath and the socket it sits in
• Green corrosion or crusty white deposits? That's restricting gas flow

The fix: Clean the orifice and socket with a brass brush and soapy water (range must be OFF and cool). Dry thoroughly before reinstalling. If corrosion is severe, you may need to replace the orifice holder assembly — but try cleaning first.

When to Call a Pro

You should probably stop and call someone if:

• You smell gas when burners are off (shut off supply valve immediately)
• You've replaced the burner assembly and still have no heat
• The igniter electrode broke off during cleaning
• Multiple burners failed suddenly after a power surge
• You're not comfortable working with gas appliances at all

Gas work isn't inherently dangerous if you're methodical, but there's zero shame in calling a tech for peace of mind. A service call typically runs $120–$180 including diagnosis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will WB16K10026 fit my Kenmore range?

Yes, if your Kenmore is gas and uses a double burner design. Check your model number against the compatibility list — this part fits Kenmore 790 series ranges manufactured under contract by GE. Look for models starting with 790.7495, 790.7499, or similar. The mounting is identical.

Why does my burner heat unevenly after cleaning?

Usually misalignment or moisture in the burner ports. After cleaning, make sure the burner cap is seated perfectly — no tilt, no gaps. Let everything dry completely before reassembling. Water in the ports will cause uneven flames until it evaporates, which can take 20–30 minutes of heating.

Can I use a different burner part number?

WB16K10026 supersedes several older numbers: AP2633210, WB29K17, 868697, and WB16K10003. They're all the same burner with different packaging over the years. If a seller lists any of these numbers, it's the correct part. Avoid aftermarket knockoffs — they're notorious for poor gas flow and warping within months.