There are two main types of gas furnace igniters: a standing pilot light and electronic ignition systems. Only older furnaces have standing pilot lights, which burn continuously. More-efficient furnaces have electronic ignition, which can be either an intermittent pilot or hot surface igniters.
A standing pilot light will have a knob on top of the gas valve with three positions: on, off, and pilot. The intermittent pilot system usually has a little pilot hood and silver tube coming out of it. A hot surface igniter uses a little glow stick to ignite the gas. Read on for more on gas furnace igniters.
Malfunctioning Furnace Ignition
When the furnace-ignition system fails, the furnace will neither heat up nor produce heat for your home. Several factors can lead to furnace-ignition failure.
For instance, wear and tear could cause damage to your gas furnace igniter. You would need to get a replacement igniter. To know if you need to replace your igniter, you may have to remove some igniter wires and test the igniter with a multimeter. A qualified HVAC technician can do this safely for you.
Other factors that can cause furnace-ignition failure include:
- Incorrect furnace installation
- Power surges
- A faulty limit switch
- The limit switch turning the igniter off to prevent overheating
You can troubleshoot your furnace by first doing a power check. There could be a lack of power to your heating system because of the circuit breaker. Ensure the furnace is connected to a functional power source and that the unit is powered.
You can also reset the furnace ignition by first cutting the power to your furnace and then removing the burner door to access the igniter. Turn the igniter off and leave it that way for about five minutes. Next, turn the igniter on and replace your burner door. Finish by turning the power source on and restarting the furnace.
Best Ignition-Repair Strategy
Gas furnaces can pose a serious safety risk when they malfunction. Therefore, it’s best to always call in a professional.
An HVAC professional will provide an expert diagnosis of your gas furnace igniter problem and repair it safely. For the best heating and air-conditioning services in the Lorain area, contact Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning today.
Energy 1 Heating & Air Conditioning
1 (440) 246-5440
Serving the Lorain, OH Area