Maytag Range Burner Yellow Flame: Adjusting the Air... | appliancefaults.com

Technical Background:

Gas ranges use a precisely controlled mixture of natural gas or propane and air to create a clean-burning flame. The air shutter controls the amount of air that mixes with the gas before combustion. When the air-fuel ratio is incorrect (too little air), the flame burns yellow due to incomplete combustion.

Symptoms:

The homeowner observes that the burner flame on their Maytag gas range is predominantly yellow instead of blue. This indicates an improper air-fuel mixture. A yellow flame can produce soot and carbon monoxide.

Possible Causes:

Insufficient air intake due to improper air shutter adjustment.
Blocked burner ports restricting gas flow.
Dirty or contaminated gas orifice.
Incorrect gas pressure to the range.
Debris or spider webs obstructing the burner assembly.

Solution:

1

Turn off the gas supply to the range at the shut-off valve (usually behind the range or in the basement). Use a wrench if needed.
2

Remove the burner grate and the burner assembly from the range top.
3

Locate the air shutter adjustment screw or lever near the burner base. This may require removing burner assembly components.
4

Loosen the screw (if applicable) with a screwdriver to allow air shutter adjustment. Some models have a lever that can be moved directly.
5

Gradually open the air shutter, observing the flame color when the gas is briefly turned on. The ideal flame is blue with a slight yellow tip. Avoid opening the air shutter too much which can cause the flame to lift off the burner.
6

If the flame remains yellow, clean the burner ports with a wire brush or burner port cleaning tool. Be careful not to enlarge the ports.
7

Check the gas orifice for debris and clean with a small wire or compressed air. Do not use excessive force, as the orifice is made of brass and can be damaged. Reassemble and test.

Safety Warning:

Disconnect power to the range at the breaker panel before performing any repairs. Gas leaks can cause explosions and carbon monoxide poisoning. If you smell gas, evacuate the area and call your local gas company or fire department immediately. Never test for gas leaks with a flame; use a soap and water solution. Only work on the gas range if you are competent and feel comfortable doing so.

Prevention:

Regularly clean the burner assemblies to remove food debris and grease. Check for spider webs or other obstructions in the burner ports and air shutter area. A yearly licensed technician range tune-up is recommended.

Expert Tip:

On some Maytag ranges, the air shutter adjustment is very sensitive. A small adjustment can make a big difference in the flame color. For pinpoint accuracy, after completing the repair, use a combustion analyzer to check for carbon monoxide levels and adjust the air shutter for optimal combustion efficiency. Aim for CO levels below 400 ppm.

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I check the gas pressure to my Maytag range?

Gas pressure should be checked by a qualified technician using a manometer. Natural gas pressure should be around 4 inches of water column (WC), and propane should be around 11 inches WC. Incorrect pressure can cause various issues, including a yellow flame.

•Where is the gas shut-off valve for my range located?

The gas shut-off valve is typically located behind the range, either on the wall or on the floor. It may also be located in the basement directly below the range. It usually has a handle that can be turned perpendicular to the gas line to shut off the gas supply.

•What tools do I need to clean the burner ports effectively?

A specialized burner port cleaning tool or a thin wire, such as a sewing needle, can be used to carefully clean the burner ports. A wire brush can also be helpful for removing debris from the burner surface. Avoid using anything that could damage or enlarge the ports.

Maytag Range Burner Yellow Flame: Adjusting the Air Shutter

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip:

Frequently Asked Questions

•How do I check the gas pressure to my Maytag range?

•Where is the gas shut-off valve for my range located?

•What tools do I need to clean the burner ports effectively?

Related questions

Technical Background:

Symptoms:

Possible Causes:

Solution:

Safety Warning:

Prevention:

Expert Tip: