A furnace is a device commonly used in most homes to provide warmth in colder months. It is the more economical and practical choice compared to a fireplace and is easy to use and operate. Unfortunately, like with many other machines out there, furnaces may still experience issues. These issues could be due to foreign objects entering the system or simply from wear and tear after long-term use. Problems like the heater not producing warm air or not turning on at all could be caused by a broken furnace ignitor.
That said, let’s talk about the common causes of damaged ignitors and what you can do to determine if your furnace ignitor is at fault:
Common Reasons for a Damaged Furnace Ignitor
1. Dirt or Debris Build-Up
Dirt and debris can accumulate on the ignitor over time, which can prevent it from sparking properly. It’s important to keep the area around the ignitor clean, and if possible, use a vacuum to remove any dirt or dust that has built up.
2. Electrical Problems
If the ignitor is not receiving enough power, it won’t spark, and the furnace won’t turn on. This is usually due to a faulty wiring connection or a blown fuse. You should always have an electrician inspect the wiring to ensure it’s up to code.
3. Low Gas Pressure
If the gas pressure is too low, the ignitor won’t be able to spark correctly. This can be caused by a clogged gas line or a faulty gas valve. A professional should be able to inspect the line and replace any faulty components.
4. Broken or Damaged Ignitor
If the ignitor itself is broken or damaged, it won’t be able to spark correctly. This could be caused by a manufacturing defect or a problem caused by age. If the ignitor is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
5. Age
Just like any other component in your home, the ignitor can wear out over time. This is especially true if it hasn’t been serviced regularly or if your furnace is old. If your ignitor is more than ten years old, it’s probably time to replace it.
How to Determine If a Furnace Ignitor Is at Fault
There are several things you can do to determine if your furnace’s ignitor is at fault.
First, check to see if the ignitor is receiving power. If it isn’t, you may need to replace the ignitor. Another common issue is when the ignitor gets too dirty. If it’s not clean, it won’t ignite the pilot light. To clean the ignitor, use an air compressor and a soft brush to gently remove any dirt or dust.
If the ignitor is clean and receiving power but still isn’t working, you may need to check the pilot light. Make sure it’s lit and functioning properly. If it isn’t, you’ll need to clean the flame sensor. This is a small device that tells the furnace when the pilot light is lit. If the flame sensor isn’t working properly, it won’t tell the furnace that the pilot light is lit, and the furnace won’t start.
Finally, if all else fails, you may need to replace the ignitor. This is a job best left to a professional, as it requires working with gas and electricity, which can be dangerous.
By following these steps, you should be able to determine if your furnace’s ignitor is at fault. If it is, you can then decide whether to repair or replace it.
Conclusion
The ignitor is an essential part of your furnace, and if it isn’t working properly, your furnace won’t be able to start. So, if you suspect the ignitor to be the problem, follow the tips we’ve shared above. In addition, be sure to check the other components of the furnace as well to see if they’re working fine. If you can’t seem to figure out what’s wrong, we always recommend reaching out to the experts to come and inspect your furnace and fix it to ensure you get the heating you expect out of it!
Good Guys Home Services is a platform that allows homeowners to reach out to professional technicians to meet various HVAC and plumbing needs. If you are looking for HVAC services to repair your furnace, find the right expert with us today!
