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Furnace ignitor repair is a common heating system fix, especially when your furnace suddenly stops working in cold weather. If your furnace isn't firing up, a failed ignitor—the part that lights the gas in your burners—is a likely culprit.
Quick Answer for Furnace Ignitor Repair:
Common signs of a failed ignitor:
Modern furnaces use electronic ignitors, which typically last 3-5 years. These parts are extremely fragile, so while many homeowners can perform this repair, it requires a careful touch to avoid cracking the new component.
When your furnace fails during the chillier months, a faulty ignitor is often the prime suspect. The signs are usually quite consistent.
While these signs point to an ignitor issue, other components can cause similar symptoms. A clogged air filter or a faulty thermostat can prevent your ignitor from working, so it's wise to check these simpler issues first. If your furnace is misbehaving, you might find our guide on how to Identify and Address Common Furnace Repair Issues helpful. And if your thermostat seems to be the problem, our tips for Troubleshooting AC Thermostat That's Not Working could help.
The harsh environment inside a furnace takes a toll on the ignitor. A common issue is a cracked ignitor. Hot surface ignitors are fragile, and the constant heating and cooling can cause hairline fractures. A visible crack is a sure sign it needs replacement. You might also see a white, powdery residue or burn marks, indicating the material is degrading. Most ignitors have a lifespan of three to five years; if yours is in that age range and showing problems, it's likely time for a new one.
Modern furnaces often have a small LED light on the control board that flashes in a specific pattern to signal an issue. These blinking lights correspond to diagnostic codes listed in your furnace's manual. A code indicating "no ignition" or "ignitor circuit fault" is a strong hint that your furnace ignitor repair efforts are on the right track. Always check your furnace manual to interpret what the control board is communicating.
Not all furnace ignitors are the same, and understanding the differences can help you troubleshoot issues. Older furnaces often had a standing pilot lighta small blue flame that burned 24/7. While simple, this design was inefficient.
Today's furnaces use smarter electronic ignition systems that only activate when heat is needed. The most common types are:
For hot surface ignitors, the material makes a significant difference in longevity.
| Feature | Silicon Carbide Ignitors | Silicon Nitride Ignitors |
|---|---|---|
| Durability | More brittle, prone to cracking from thermal shock | Much more robust, resistant to thermal and physical shock |
| Lifespan | Typically 3-5 years (common replacement item) | Significantly longer, often 5-10+ years |
| Cost | Generally less expensive to purchase initially | Higher initial cost, but better long-term value |
| Appearance | Typically gray, more opaque, with a visible coil | Darker, more uniform, often a smooth, solid rod |
| Efficiency | Heats up quickly, but wears out faster | Heats up very quickly, maintains integrity longer |
For decades, silicon carbide ignitors were the standard. They are effective but fragile, developing stress fractures from repeated heating and cooling that eventually cause them to fail. Silicon nitride ignitors are a newer, tougher alternative. They handle thermal shock much better and can last two to three times longer. While they cost more upfront, their extended lifespan makes them a smart investment, potentially saving you from another furnace ignitor repair for a decade or more.
Tackling a furnace ignitor repair yourself can be a straightforward HVAC fix for many homeowners. Before you start, you need to find the right part. Locate your furnace's part number, which is often printed on the old ignitor or listed in the manual. We recommend using OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts, as they are designed for your specific furnace and tend to be more reliable than aftermarket alternatives. Ignitors are incredibly fragile and must be handled with extreme care. If you feel uncomfortable at any point, knowing When to Call Us for Heater Repair is the safest choice.
Safety is the top priority when working on a gas appliance.
For tools, you will need a multimeter (to test the old ignitor), a socket wrench set or nut drivers, screwdrivers, and gloves. Nitrile or clean cotton gloves are essential to protect the new ignitor from oils on your skin. A headlamp and safety glasses are also highly recommended.
With safety measures in place, you can begin the removal process.
This step requires a delicate touch.
Finally, turn the gas and power back on and set your thermostat to call for heat. You should see the ignitor glow (for HSI types) and hear the burners ignite.
Even with careful work, issues can arise.
If the furnace still won't work, the problem may be more complex. Our guide on Common Furnace Maintenance Mistakes can help you avoid other potential issues.
When your furnace ignitor fails, you face a choice: handle the repair yourself or call a professional. There are good reasons for both approaches.
A DIY repair can be rewarding, with the main benefit being cost savings. You primarily pay for the part, which is a fraction of a professional service call. If you are comfortable with tools and follow safety procedures carefully, a DIY replacement is achievable.
However, hiring a professional provides peace of mind. A certified technician has the training and tools to diagnose the problem accurately, ensuring the ignitor is the true culprit. Their expertise minimizes the risk of mistakes that could lead to further damage or safety hazards.
Working with gas lines and high-voltage electricity carries inherent risks. An improper repair could lead to gas leaks, electrical fires, or carbon monoxide poisoning. If you have any doubts, calling a professional is the safest choice. Additionally, a DIY repair could void your furnace's warranty. Professional service, like ours at Royalty Heating & Air, typically includes a warranty on both parts and labor. You can learn more about the benefits in our post on Reasons to Hire Professional AC Companies.
The cost of a furnace ignitor repair has two components: the part and the labor.
The ignitor part itself is generally affordable. An OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part may cost slightly more than an aftermarket one but guarantees a proper fit and compatibility.
When you hire a professional, you are paying for their expertise, which includes accurate diagnosis, labor for the replacement, and a service call fee. While the total cost is higher than just the part, it reflects the value of a safe, reliable, and warrantied repair. Many homeowners find the investment worthwhile for the swift restoration of heat and peace of mind. For those who need help managing unexpected repair costs, we offer convenient Financing options.
We've answered countless questions about furnace ignitors. Here are the most common ones we hear.
Most furnace ignitors last between 3 to 7 years. Longevity depends on several factors. The type of ignitor is key: older silicon carbide models typically last 3-5 years, as the stress of repeated heating and cooling causes them to crack. Newer silicon nitride ignitors are more robust and can last 5-10 years or more. Your furnace's workload and the home environment also play a role; heavy use and high levels of dust can shorten an ignitor's lifespan.
Unfortunately, cleaning a failing ignitor itself is not an effective repair. If the ignitor is cracked or burned out, it must be replaced. However, the symptoms of a failed ignitor are often mimicked by a dirty flame sensor. This metal rod detects the flame after ignition, and when it gets coated with carbon buildup, it can't "see" the flame and will shut the furnace down as a safety measure. You can gently clean a flame sensor with fine-grit sandpaper (after turning off all power). But if the ignitor itself is visibly damaged, cleaning won't help. Keeping your whole system clean is important; see our Vital Tips Effective Ductwork Cleaning for more information.
Installing the wrong ignitor can cause a range of problems, from minor to severe.
To avoid these issues and preserve your furnace's warranty, always use the correct OEM match for your model. Double-check the part number before purchasing.
We've covered the key aspects of furnace ignitor repair, from identifying warning signs like cold air and clicking sounds to understanding the different types of ignitors. For homeowners in Roseville, Loomis, Rocklin, Lincoln, and Granite Bay, knowing these details is key to staying warm.
We've also outlined the step-by-step repair process. While this can be a DIY project, knowing when to call a professional is crucial. The fragility of the ignitor and the risks of working with gas and electricity mean that caution is paramount.
If you've tried a repair and your furnace still isn't working, or if you prefer the peace of mind that comes with professional service, we're here to help. At Royalty Heating & Air, we're committed to keeping our community's families comfortable. Through our partnership with the MackAttack Foundation, we support foster babies and sponsor family adoptions in our area.
When you need reliable and safe furnace repair in Roseville CA, our expert technicians have the experience to get your system running efficiently again, keeping your home warm and cozy.
