A dirty or partially blocked gas burner jet is one of the most common causes of caravan appliances failing to ignite or cutting out shortly after lighting — especially fridges, hot water systems, and cooktops.
Dust, rust flakes, insects (particularly spiders), and storage-related contamination can all restrict gas flow through the jet.
This guide explains how to clean a caravan gas burner jet safely, what not to do, and when the job should be handed to a licensed gas technician.
What You’ll Learn
- What a gas burner jet does
- Common signs of a blocked jet
- Safe cleaning methods that won’t damage the jet
- Mistakes that can make the problem worse
- When jet cleaning becomes a professional job
This guide is suitable for caravan owners, but gas safety is critical — follow each step carefully.
What Is a Gas Burner Jet?
The burner jet (also called an injector):
- Meters gas flow into the burner
- Controls flame size and stability
- Is precision-drilled to an exact size
Even a tiny blockage or scratch can cause:
- Poor ignition
- Yellow flames
- Flame dropout
- Appliance shutdown
This is why jet cleaning must be done correctly.
Step-by-Step: How to Clean a Caravan Gas Burner Jet
1. Turn Off the Gas Supply Completely
Before doing anything:
- Turn off the gas bottle at the valve
- Ensure all gas appliances are off
- Allow the system to depressurise
Never work on a live gas system.
2. Access the Burner Assembly
Access varies by appliance:
- Fridges: behind external vent
- Hot water systems: service panel
- Cooktops: under hob
Remove covers carefully and note how parts are positioned.
3. Locate the Burner Jet
The jet is usually:
- Brass
- Threaded into the gas line or burner housing
- Positioned just before the burner tube
It will have a very small central hole.
4. Clean the Jet Safely
Do not poke anything through the jet hole.
Safe cleaning methods:
- Blow gently with compressed air (from a distance)
- Use a soft brush on the outside only
- Tap gently to dislodge debris
Never use:
- Needles
- Drill bits
- Wire
- Pins
These permanently damage the jet.
5. Refit and Test the Appliance
After cleaning:
- Reinstall the jet securely (do not overtighten)
- Reassemble the burner and covers
- Turn gas back on slowly
- Test appliance operation
Flame should be:
- Blue
- Stable
- Even
If ignition fails, stop and reassess.
Signs a Burner Jet Needs Cleaning
| Symptom | Likely Cause |
| Clicking but no ignition | Blocked jet |
| Yellow or weak flame | Partial blockage |
| Appliance lights then cuts out | Restricted gas flow |
| Works intermittently | Debris shifting in jet |
| Fails after storage | Spider webs or dust |
What NOT to Do (Very Important)
- Don’t poke the jet hole
- Don’t soak the jet in chemicals
- Don’t enlarge the orifice
- Don’t run appliances with covers removed
- Don’t ignore gas smells
A damaged jet must be replaced, not “fixed”.
When to Call a Professional
Book a licensed gas technician if:
- Cleaning doesn’t restore ignition
- Flame remains unstable
- You suspect jet damage
- Appliance repeatedly shuts down
- You’re unsure about disassembly
Gas work beyond basic cleaning may require certification.
Key Takeaways
- Burner jets are precision components
- Blockages are common after storage
- Cleaning must be gentle and minimal
- Never insert objects into jet holes
- When in doubt, stop and call a pro
Next Steps
If your fridge won’t run on gas:
👉 Caravan Fridge Works on 240V but Not Gas? Diagnosis Guide
If ignition issues persist:
👉 How to Reset a Caravan Fridge (Dometic & Thetford Models)
For gas safety checks:
