When Your Furnace Won’t Light: Understanding Modern Ignition Systems and Safety Concerns
When winter arrives and your furnace fails to ignite, it can leave you in the cold wondering what went wrong. If your gas furnace ignitor is not working, you can have either a minor inconvenience or major problem if outdoor temperatures are freezing. Electronic ignition system problems tend to cause gas furnaces to shut down or even long-term system outages. Understanding the differences between traditional pilot lights and modern electronic ignition systems can help you troubleshoot issues safely and know when to call for professional help.
The Evolution from Pilot Lights to Electronic Ignition
Pilot lights are a dying breed in HVAC installation. Each year we see fewer and fewer furnaces with standing pilot lights. In Central Ohio, I’d say that only around 5% of the furnaces we see have pilot lights. Modern furnaces have jettisoned the pilot light in favor of electronic ignition systems. Electronic ignition is not only safer and more reliable than using a standing pilot light, but it helps improve energy efficiency to save on bills.
Today, most modern furnaces have switched to electronic ignition systems. Electronic igniters are designed to light only when the furnace is ready to heat, conserving energy and increasing efficiency. There are generally two types of electronic igniters: intermittent pilot igniters, which use a small electric spark to light a pilot flame that, in turn, ignites the furnace, and hot surface igniters, which use an electric current to heat up a silicon carbide or silicon nitride element that ignites the gas burner.
Common Modern Ignition System Problems
While electronic ignition systems are more reliable than traditional pilot lights, they can still experience issues. While electronic igniters have improved efficiency and reliability, they can still fail over time. When an igniter starts to fail, it often shows certain warning signs. Recognizing these early on can save you from being left without heat when you need it most.
Hot Surface Igniter Issues
Age: The ignition system for a furnace is not expected to last as long as the furnace itself, and age will eventually cause it to break. Igniters tend to last about 3–5 years before they stop working because of cracking. Clicking sounds from the furnace when it tries to start can be a sign that the igniter is struggling. A properly functioning igniter should only make minimal noise when it lights the burners. If you hear a constant clicking noise, it’s likely that the igniter is malfunctioning or failing to ignite the fuel.
Control Board and Electrical Problems
Integrated circuit board failure: The integrated circuit board monitors the operation of a furnace and controls the electronic ignition. These circuits can fail and prevent the electronic ignition from coming on. Fortunately, LED readouts on your furnace can alert you when this happens and provide a failure code that will help your repair technician find out what is wrong with the circuit board and fix it.
Bad wiring or outlets: Electronic igniters can suffer from the same troubles as any electric system; crossed wiring at the junction box or issues with the outlet powering the ignition can cause it to stop working.
Safety Concerns with Modern Ignition Systems
One of the primary advantages of electronic ignition systems is their enhanced safety features. In both types of electronic ignition systems, there are extra safety steps to prevent gas from flowing to the burners when there’s nothing to ignite them. This makes electronic ignition systems safer in general than older standing pilot lights.
Additionally, electronic ignition systems help make furnaces safer. Without a constantly burning flame in the furnace, there’s a reduced risk of a potential accidental combustion explosion. Electronic ignition is not only safer and more reliable than using a standing pilot light, but it helps improve energy efficiency to save on bills.
However, safety concerns still exist. Delayed ignition creates concerning “whooshing” sounds when gas accumulates before finally igniting. This condition indicates ignition system weakness that can worsen over time and potentially create safety hazards if gas builds up before lightning. Another common problem is delayed ignition, this is often preceded by a loud bang before ignition. This could be a serious safety issue as it could lead to an accumulation of build-up gas if you attempt to turn the ignitor on several times.
Troubleshooting Steps You Can Take
Before calling for professional help, there are several basic troubleshooting steps homeowners can safely perform:
- Dirty or clogged air filters can restrict airflow, preventing the furnace from operating correctly. This can also lead to overheating. Check and replace the air filters regularly. Ideally, this should be done every 1-3 months, depending on the type of filter and usage.
- The furnace’s circuit breaker may have tripped, cutting power to the unit. Locate your home’s electrical panel and check if the furnace’s breaker has tripped. If it has, switch it back to the “on” position. If the breaker continues to trip, there may be a larger electrical issue that needs professional attention.
- Reset the ignition system by turning off the power to the furnace, waiting a few minutes, and turning it back on. If the furnace blower comes on but won’t ignite, the igniter might be the problem. If resetting doesn’t work, or you’re unsure about identifying components, it’s best to call a professional.
When to Call Professional Help
Working on an electronic ignition system for a gas furnace combines two areas you should never work in without training and the right equipment: electricity and natural gas. Quality Air Heating and Air Conditioning has the right kind of professionals for heating repair in Columbus, OH: NATE-certified technicians with training that goes above and beyond to make sure you stay warm and safe with your electronic ignition gas furnace.
Unusual odors during furnace operation can indicate incomplete combustion, gas leaks, or overheated electrical components. Natural gas odors require immediate attention and may necessitate shutting off the gas supply and contacting emergency services. Electrical burning smells often indicate failing igniters or control board problems that require prompt professional attention. These conditions can worsen rapidly and potentially create fire hazards if not addressed quickly by qualified technicians.
Why Choose Professional Service in Mid-Missouri
For residents in the Columbia, Missouri area, MasterTech Plumbing, Heating and Cooling is a locally owned and operated company based in Columbia, MO, specializing in comprehensive plumbing, heating, and air conditioning services. They offer a wide range of solutions including 24/7 emergency plumbing, HVAC installations, and maintenance, catering to both residential and commercial clients. With a commitment to quality service and customer satisfaction, MasterTech employs certified technicians who provide reliable and efficient solutions.
MasterTech is a family owned and operated trades business located in Columbia, MO. We have had the privilege of service our friends and neighbors throughout mid-Missouri since 1990. On the HVAC side, we are a Bryant Factory Authorized Dealer and our Comfort Advisor/HVAC Leader is NATE certified, with over 10 years of in-field repair & service experience. Whether you need emergency Furnace Repair Boone County, MO or routine maintenance, their experienced team can handle all types of ignition system problems safely and effectively.
Preventive Maintenance for Long-Term Reliability
Proactive maintenance is key to preventing major furnace problems. All essentials are replacing air filters, inspecting ignition components, and ensuring proper airflow. During annual inspections, professional technicians can handle these tasks, ensuring your furnace runs efficiently and safely.
Being electronic, ignition systems require routine care and checks. Dirt, dust, pollen, and cobwebs can cause these systems to overheat and malfunction. Regular professional maintenance can identify potential issues before they become major problems, ensuring your heating system operates safely throughout the winter months.
Understanding your furnace’s ignition system and recognizing the signs of trouble can help you maintain a warm, safe home. While modern electronic ignition systems are generally more reliable and safer than traditional pilot lights, they still require proper maintenance and professional attention when problems arise. Don’t hesitate to contact qualified HVAC professionals when you encounter ignition issues – your safety and comfort depend on it.