5 Signs Your Furnace Ignitor Needs Attention

Imagine you’re enjoying a relaxing evening at home. The outdoor temperature starts to drop, and you feel a sudden chill. You head over to your thermostat to make things a little cozier—and nothing happens. What gives? Your furnace ignitor could be to blame.

A furnace ignitor is a crucial component in your heating system responsible for igniting the burner and ensuring that your furnace heats your home efficiently. If the ignitor goes bad, it can lead to a variety of heating problems, and recognizing the signs early can prevent costly repairs. Here are 5 signs that your furnace ignitor might be failing and what you can do about it.

1. No Heat or Warm Air

One of the most obvious signs that your furnace ignitor is bad is if the furnace is not producing heat. When the ignitor fails, the burner cannot light, and the furnace will not produce warm air. If your thermostat is set correctly and the furnace is receiving power, but you still aren’t getting heat, it could be a sign that the ignitor is faulty.

2. Furnace Cycles On and Off

If your furnace frequently turns on and off without completing a full heating cycle, it may be due to a faulty ignitor. A bad ignitor may prevent the furnace from staying on long enough to complete its cycle, causing it to shut off prematurely. It’s best to call a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and address the issue before it worsens.

3. Strange Noises During Startup

If you hear strange clicking or buzzing sounds coming from your furnace, it could indicate a malfunctioning ignitor. A faulty ignitor may fail to spark at the right moment, causing repeated clicking noises as the furnace tries unsuccessfully to ignite the gas. If you hear these noises, turn off the furnace and inspect the ignitor. If it appears cracked or damaged, contact a professional to replace it.

4. The Flame Sensor is Dirty or Malfunctioning

Sometimes, the ignitor itself may be fine, but a dirty or malfunctioning flame sensor can cause issues. If the sensor cannot detect a flame, it will signal the furnace to shut off to prevent a gas leak. This can cause the furnace to shut down shortly after the ignitor lights the burner. Have the flame sensor cleaned or replaced. If the problem persists, the ignitor may still be the root cause.

5. The Ignitor Looks Cracked or Damaged

Inspecting the ignitor visually can often reveal if it’s the source of the issue. Over time, ignitors can become cracked or damaged due to wear and tear. A cracked ignitor may prevent proper ignition and cause the furnace to fail. If the ignitor looks cracked, chipped, or damaged, it’s time to replace it.

A bad furnace ignitor can disrupt your comfort, but recognizing the signs early can save you time and money. Contact Pann Home Services for these or any other heating problems and we’ll get things up and running quickly.