i get a gas smell only when using the oven, not the top burners. is it dangerous?

Diagnosis

A gas smell specifically associated with the oven—but not the cooktop—indicates a delayed ignition sequence or a leak within the oven's internal gas delivery system. In the Whirlpool WFG320M0MS, the most common culprit is a failing glow-bar igniter. These igniters are designed to reach a specific temperature to ignite the gas as it flows from the safety valve. When an igniter begins to weaken, it may take significantly longer to reach the required heat threshold. During this delay, the gas valve opens, filling the oven cavity with unburned natural gas or propane. By the time the igniter finally triggers, there is a concentrated pocket of gas that "poofs" or burns off rapidly, releasing a strong odor into the kitchen. Alternatively, the issue may be a physical misalignment of the burner tube or a leak at the oven gas manifold. If the burner tube has shifted or if the orifice is partially clogged with debris, the gas may not flow evenly into the burner ports, causing some gas to escape into the oven cavity before it can be ignited. You can confirm a delayed ignition by listening closely: if you hear the "click" or the valve opening, but there is a 10-20 second pause before the flame actually catches, your igniter is the primary suspect. If the smell is constant throughout the baking cycle, you likely have a leak at the connection points.

How to Fix It

To resolve this, you must ensure the ignition sequence is instantaneous and the burner is sealed correctly.

1. Disconnect the range from the power outlet and shut off the gas supply valve located behind the unit.
2. Open the oven door and remove the oven racks. Unscrew the floor panel (bottom plate) using a 1/4" nut driver to expose the burner assembly.
3. Inspect the igniter (the grey, glowing element). Look for "bright spots" or areas where the element looks thinner or pitted. If the element does not glow a vibrant orange-yellow across its entire length within 30-60 seconds of turning the oven on, replace it (Part No: WPW10113163).
4. Check the burner tube alignment. Ensure the burner tube is seated firmly over the gas orifice. If the tube is skewed even 2-3mm, gas will leak from the gap. Gently push the tube back into place and secure any retaining clips.
5. Verify the gap between the igniter tip and the burner ports. The igniter should be positioned approximately 1/4 inch (6mm) from the burner ports to ensure the gas is ignited immediately upon release.
6. Reinstall the floor panel, restore gas and power, and perform a test bake at 350°F. The flame should ignite almost immediately after the valve opens.

If That Didn't Work

• Replace the Gas Safety Valve: If the igniter is new but you still smell gas, the safety valve may be leaking internally or opening prematurely. This requires a professional technician as it involves disconnecting the main gas manifold.
• Check for Combustion Byproducts: Sometimes what is perceived as a gas smell is actually a "burnt" smell from a clogged burner port. Use a thin needle or a specialized burner cleaning tool to clear any carbon buildup or spider webs from the small holes in the burner tube.
• Inspect the Oven Door Seal: If the gas smell is escaping into the room rather than staying in the oven, check the fiberglass gasket around the oven door. If the seal is torn or compressed, it allows combustion gases to leak into the kitchen during the preheat phase.
• Verify Gas Pressure: If you have recently installed other gas appliances in your home, you may have low gas pressure. This can cause an unstable flame that flickers or goes out, releasing unburned gas into the oven cavity.

Heads Up

• NEVER use a match or a handheld lighter to "help" the oven ignite; this can cause a dangerous explosion if gas has accumulated in the oven cavity.
• Avoid using heavy-duty oven cleaners on the bottom floor panel, as the chemicals can corrode the burner tube and cause premature rusting and leaks.
• Ventilation: If you smell a strong "rotten egg" odor that persists after the oven is off, evacuate the area and call your gas company immediately.
• Igniter Care: Do not touch the glowing element of the igniter with your bare hands; skin oils can create "hot spots" that cause the element to burn out prematurely.