Ignites to heat a gas oven. It converts to a high-temperature glow that safely lights the gas, thus eliminating the need for a pilot light. All modern ovens use an igniter system. You can hear the flames ignite when the oven is initially turned on and periodically while the oven is on. Throughout the use of the oven, you will hear it light, helping the oven maintain the temperature that was set. Your oven igniter might have to be replaced if the Gas igniter glows, but will not light, the oven will not start even though you can hear that the gas valve is open, or if there is little to no heat when baking. Please note that while oven igniters are easy to install, they should be handled with care as the material can break easily.