Selecting the Right Replacement Igniter for Your GE, Kenmore, or Frigidaire Gas Range
When your gas oven fails to heat, the igniter is often the culprit—a small ceramic component that glows hot to open the gas valve. The onlyfire WB13K21 is a direct replacement for specific OEM part numbers from major brands like GE and Kenmore. Buyers should verify their original part number matches one of the listed cross-references before purchasing.
Key Considerations Before Buying
- Compatibility is paramount: This igniter replaces specific OEM numbers like WB13K0021 and DG94-00520A; using an incorrect model can lead to improper ignition or safety hazards.
- Installation difficulty varies: Replacing an oven igniter typically requires removing the oven floor and disconnecting two wires, but accessibility differs between range models.
- Performance expectations: A quality aftermarket igniter should glow bright orange within 60-90 seconds and consistently open the gas safety valve for ignition.
What Our Analysts Recommend
Quality replacement igniters feature durable ceramic construction around the heating element and secure, corrosion-resistant wire terminals. The packaging should clearly list all compatible OEM part numbers, and the unit should arrive with intact insulation on the lead wires to prevent short circuits.
Accessories Market Context
Market Overview
The market for aftermarket range parts like igniters is robust, driven by the high cost of OEM replacements and service calls. Brands like onlyfire compete by offering direct-fit components at a fraction of the manufacturer's price, often with cross-compatibility across multiple appliance brands.
Common Issues
Common failures include igniters that glow but don't get hot enough to open the gas valve (a weak glow), elements that crack or break during handling, and compatibility mismatches where the physical shape or electrical specs don't align with the original. Poor wire connections can also cause intermittent failure.
Quality Indicators
Look for listings with precise OEM part number cross-references, not just brand compatibility. Quality units use high-purity silicon carbide or similar materials for the hot surface element. Reviews that mention specific installation details and long-term performance (beyond initial function) are strong positive signals.
Review Authenticity Insights
Grade A Interpretation
An 'A' authenticity grade with an estimated 8% fake review rate indicates a highly trustworthy review section for this niche product. The minimal manipulation suggests the high 4.6 adjusted rating is a reliable reflection of actual buyer experiences with installation and performance.
Trust Recommendation
You can place significant confidence in the reviews for this specific onlyfire igniter. Focus on the detailed reviews from verified purchasers that discuss the installation process on a specific range model (e.g., a Kenmore 790) or mention the time it took for the igniter to glow properly.
Tips for Reading Reviews
For technical parts like this, prioritize reviews that describe the failure symptom of their old igniter and the result after replacement. Be wary of overly generic praise; authentic reviews often mention slight fitment adjustments or the tools needed for installation.
Expert Perspective
The data presents a strong case for the onlyfire WB13K21 as a reliable aftermarket option. The exceptionally high authentic rating of 4.6, derived from genuine reviews, indicates consistent satisfaction with fit, function, and durability. The specific OEM part number cross-referencing in the title is a good practice that reduces compatibility errors. This level of performance in a replacement igniter at a non-OEM price point is notable.
Purchase Considerations
Weigh the cost of this part ($15-$25 typically) against a service call ($100+). Ensure you are comfortable accessing your oven's burner assembly—consult a model-specific repair video first. For older ranges where other components may be near failure, consider if a broader repair is more economical.
Comparing Alternatives
Shoppers should compare the onlyfire unit with other aftermarket brands (like UEIC or SUPCO) listing the same part numbers, checking for differences in warranty length or included installation hardware.
