Most newer gas ranges and ovens don’t have pilot lights. Instead, the gas is ignited by an electric ignition system. In this type of system, an element becomes hot and glows like the filament in a lightbulb when an electric current passes through it. The heat from the filament lights the gas.

How do I know if my stove has a pilot light?

If the oven has a pilot light, you will see a gas tube that may or may not have a small blue flame burning at its end. If the oven has a glow bar, however, you’ll see an insulated electronic device centered in the burner.

When did stoves stop having pilot light?

Congress established the first standards for cooking products in 1987, and they took effect in 1990. The standard prohibited standing pilot lights in gas ranges and ovens that have an electrical supply cord.