Kenmore 79078618503 gas range Parts

On your Kenmore gas range model 79078618503, a bad spark module is likely when the burners have gas but you get weak, erratic, or no sparking at the electrodes (or sparking never stops), and basic checks like power, burner cap placement, and clean burner heads do not correct it. Confirm the correct ignition behavior in the 79078618503 owner's manual.

Quick checks before blaming the module

• Make sure the knob is turned to LITE only to ignite; do not leave it there (the igniters will keep sparking).
• Verify burner caps and burner heads are seated correctly; misalignment can prevent lighting.
• Clean and dry the burner head area; moisture and spills can cause constant clicking or misfires.
• Try each burner one at a time; on many ranges all igniters spark together, but only the selected burner should light.
• If you smell gas, stop and follow the safety steps in the 79078618503 installation guide.

Symptoms that point to a bad spark module

What you see/hear	Most common cause	What to check next
No clicking on any burner	No power to ignition circuit, failed module	Outlet/breaker, wiring connections, then module
Clicking on all burners but no spark at any electrode	Failed module output	Inspect harness connections, then module
Constant clicking even when knobs are OFF	Stuck switch, moisture, or module fault	Dry/clean, check switch harness, then module
One burner will not spark but others do	Electrode, wire, or burner issue	Electrode gap/ceramic, wire routing, burner head

How we test it safely (high level)

1. Unplug the range and shut off gas before accessing internal components.
2. Inspect the igniter switch harness for damage and signs of arcing.
3. Restore power and check for proper line voltage feeding the module (typically about 120 VAC on U.S. ranges) using safe meter practices.
4. If correct voltage is present but the module does not produce consistent spark output, replace the module.

Why it matters

A weak or failed spark module can prevent ignition, cause delayed lighting, or create constant sparking that wears electrodes and can lead to nuisance gas odor. Correct diagnosis also prevents replacing good parts like burner heads or switches.

Last updated: February 2026

A Kenmore gas range like model 79078618503 typically lasts about 15 years with normal household use. Regular cleaning to prevent grease buildup and following the care instructions in the 79078618503 owner's manual help you get the full service life from the burners, oven, and controls.

Typical lifespan and what affects it

Most gas ranges reach their expected life when heat, gas flow, and airflow stay consistent and parts are kept clean.

• Cooking frequency (daily use wears igniters, valves, and knobs faster)
• Grease control (grease buildup can create overheating and ignition issues)
• Cleaning habits (using the right methods prevents damage to finishes and components)
• Power quality (controls are sensitive; avoid powering up after very cold storage)
• Timely small repairs (replacing a weak igniter or failed sensor prevents bigger problems)

Maintenance that extends life (high impact)

The manual emphasizes keeping the range free of grease and using self-clean only as directed.

• Clean the cooktop and the area under burner heads regularly
• Keep burner ports clear so flames stay even and blue
• Remove broiler pan and utensils before self-clean; do not line broiler insert with foil
• Avoid heavy cleaner residue; aerosols and residue can ignite
• If the range has been in temperatures below 32°F, let it sit above 32°F for at least 3 hours before turning power on

Parts that commonly wear out first

These parts do not mean the range is “done”; they are normal wear items that can restore performance.

Symptom	Common cause	Example part for 79078618503
Oven temperature swings	Sensor drifting out of range	Frigidaire range oven temperature sensor 316490000
Oven light out	Bulb burned out	Range oven light bulb 316538904
Weak broil heat	Igniter getting weak	Range broil igniter 316489401

Why it matters

A gas range that is cleaned regularly and repaired promptly holds temperature better, lights more reliably, and avoids grease-related flare-ups. That directly improves cooking results and helps the appliance reach its typical 15-year lifespan.

Last updated: February 2026

To change a surface-burner spark electrode (igniter) on your Kenmore gas range model 79078618503, we remove the burner cap and burner head, disconnect the electrode wire, swap the electrode, then reassemble and test ignition. Keep spills and cleaners out of the orifice holder opening. See the 79078618503 installation guide.

Safety first (before you start)

• Turn all burner knobs to OFF and let the cooktop cool completely.
• Unplug the range (or switch off the breaker) to prevent accidental sparking.
• Shut off the gas supply valve if you will be lifting parts near gas fittings.
• Do not allow spills, food, or cleaning agents into the gas orifice holder opening.
• Keep burner caps and burner heads installed whenever burners are in use.

Steps to replace the spark electrode

1. Remove the grate, then lift off the burner cap and burner head.
2. Locate the ceramic spark electrode next to the burner.
3. Remove the mounting screw (save it) and gently lift the electrode up.
4. Disconnect the wire connector from the old electrode.
5. Connect the wire to the new electrode (firm fit; do not pull on the wire itself).
6. Reinstall the electrode and tighten the screw snugly (do not overtighten).
7. Reinstall the burner head and cap (make sure they sit flat and aligned).
8. Restore power and test: turn the knob to LITE; you should hear sparking and the burner should light.

What “normal” ignition looks like

Check	Normal result	If not normal
Spark sound at LITE	Rapid clicking	Check power, electrode connection, or cracked ceramic
Time to light	Typically within about 4 seconds after air is purged	Clean burner ports, confirm cap/head alignment
Flame	Even ring, not lifting off ports	Clean burner head ports; verify correct assembly

Why it matters

A misaligned burner head/cap or a damaged electrode can cause delayed ignition, uneven flame, or a burner that will not light. Keeping the burner ports clean also helps prevent ignition problems.

Last updated: February 2026

On Kenmore gas range model 79078618503, the cooktop (top) is not removable; we do not attempt to lift or detach it. For cleaning and service access, we work from above by removing the grates and burner pieces, or we pull the range out after shutting off gas and power as outlined in the 79078618503 installation guide.

What you can remove from the top (safe access steps)

• Turn all burner knobs to OFF and let everything cool.
• Remove the burner grates.
• Lift off the burner caps.
• Lift off the burner heads (if your burner style uses separate heads).
• Wipe spills and debris from the cooktop surface; avoid spray oven cleaners on the range top.

When you need deeper access (service or maintenance)

If you need access beyond what’s reachable from the top (for example, to inspect gas connections or wiring), the correct approach is to move the range:

• Shut off the gas supply.
• Disconnect electrical power.
• Pull the range out only as far as needed to disconnect supplies, then move it for service.
• Reinstall in reverse order; level the range and check gas connections for leaks (use a liquid leak detector, not a flame).

Common “top removal” tasks and the right method

Task	Correct method on 79078618503	Typical parts involved
Clean around burners	Remove grates, caps, heads	Burner head, cap, grate
Burner won’t light	Clean/inspect burner head and igniter area	Range surface burner head 316212400
Oven temperature seems off	Test/replace oven sensor (not cooktop removal)	Frigidaire range oven temperature sensor 316490000

Why it matters

Trying to remove a non-removable cooktop can bend panels, damage burner tubing, or create gas leak risks. Using the correct access method protects the manifold, igniters, and pressure regulator.

Last updated: February 2026

A Kenmore gas range like model 79078618503 is built from a burner and ignition system, temperature sensing and controls, and the oven cavity parts that hold heat and support cooking. Common oven-related parts include the bake burner, broil igniter, oven light, door seal, and temperature sensor (plus racks and panels).

Main gas oven parts (what they do)

• Bake burner: provides the main heat for baking.
• Igniter and gas valve system: the igniter glows, then the oven valve opens to light the burner.
• Oven temperature sensor: tells the control how hot the oven is so it can cycle heat accurately.
• Oven cavity panels and insulation: help contain heat and protect surrounding components.
• Oven door and door seal (gasket): keeps heat in for stable temperatures.
• Oven light and light socket: lets you see food without opening the door.

Parts you can actually replace on this model

Here are examples of oven-related replacement parts listed for Kenmore 79078618503:

Oven function	Example part on this model	What a failure can look like
Temperature sensing	Frigidaire range oven temperature sensor 316490000	Oven runs too hot or too cool, uneven baking
Oven lighting	Range oven light bulb 316538904	Light does not turn on
Door sealing	Range oven door seal 5304498835	Heat leaks, longer preheat, poor baking results
Broil ignition	Range broil igniter 316489401	Broil will not light or takes too long
Bake heat	Range bake burner 316404400	Weak heat, slow preheat, no bake flame

How the burner and igniter system works (quick overview)

When you set the oven to bake or broil, current flows to the igniter and it glows. Once it is hot enough, the oven gas valve opens and the burner lights; a normal ignition delay is often 30 to 60 seconds.

Why it matters

Knowing the major gas oven components helps you troubleshoot faster. For example, a temperature problem often points to the sensor or door seal, while a no-heat complaint often points to the igniter, gas valve, or burner.

Where to confirm features and terminology

For the exact feature list and operating details for your Kenmore 79078618503, use the 79078618503 owner's manual.

Last updated: February 2026

Kenmore is a brand name sold by Sears, and model 79078618503 is part of the Kenmore range lineup built for Sears to Kenmore specifications. For this model family, the 790 prefix is commonly associated with Frigidaire/Electrolux-built ranges; confirm the exact identification details on the rating plate and in the 79078618503 owner’s manual.

How to confirm the manufacturer on your exact unit

Use the model and serial information from the appliance itself (not just the control panel styling).

• Open the storage or warmer drawer.
• Look on the right side of the oven front frame for the identification plate.
• Record the full model and serial numbers.
• Match those numbers to the documentation for model 79078618503.
• Keep the info with your purchase records for future parts lookup.

What the “790” model prefix means

Kenmore model numbers often include a prefix that points to the original manufacturer.

What you see	What it usually indicates	Why it helps
790.XXXXXXX	Frigidaire/Electrolux-built Kenmore range	Guides you toward the right parts design and service approach
Full model and serial on ID plate	Exact production identity	Best match for parts diagrams and replacement parts

Why it matters for parts and repairs

The original manufacturer influences burner design, igniter style, oven controls, and which replacement parts fit correctly. When you order parts for Kenmore 79078618503, always match by the full model number and the part listing for that model.

Last updated: February 2026