There’s a certain satisfaction that comes from fixing something yourself, especially when it saves you money and gets your home comfortable again. If you’re the handy type, a furnace ignitor replacement might seem like the perfect weekend project. It’s a common issue, the part is relatively inexpensive, and the process can be straightforward if you know what you’re doing. However, your furnace is a complex appliance that combines electricity and natural gas, so safety has to be your top priority. This article is designed to be your trusted resource, giving you the step-by-step instructions and critical safety precautions you need to make an informed decision about whether this is a DIY job you’re ready to handle.
Key Takeaways
- Identify the Telltale Signs: Before you assume the worst, check for common symptoms of a failing ignitor. These include your furnace running but blowing cold air, making a repeated clicking noise, or short-cycling without ever heating your home.
- Choose the Right Part for a Lasting Fix: Not all ignitors are interchangeable. Use your furnace’s model number to find an exact match, and consider upgrading to a more durable silicon nitride model to extend the time between replacements.
- Know When to Call a Professional: While a DIY replacement is possible, safety is paramount. If you’re unsure about shutting off the power and gas, diagnosing the problem, or handling the components, it’s always smarter and safer to call an expert.
What Is a Furnace Ignitor and How Does It Work?
Think of a furnace ignitor as the modern-day matchstick for your heating system. It’s a small but mighty component with one critical job: to safely light the gas that warms your home. When your thermostat calls for heat, the ignitor heats up to an incredibly high temperature—often over 2,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Only when it’s hot enough to guarantee ignition does your furnace’s gas valve open. This sequence is a crucial safety feature, preventing raw, unburned gas from building up inside your system.
Without a functioning ignitor, your furnace simply can’t produce heat, leaving you in the cold. It’s one of the most common points of failure in modern furnaces, but understanding how it works is the first step toward a quick fix. If you suspect your ignitor is the source of your heating troubles, it might be time to look into a professional heating repair. There are two main types of ignitors you’ll find in residential furnaces, and each works a bit differently.
Hot Surface Ignitors (HSI)
Most furnaces today use a Hot Surface Ignitor, or HSI. This type of ignitor is usually made of a ceramic material like silicon carbide and functions much like the filament in a lightbulb. When it’s time to heat your home, an electrical current flows through the HSI, causing it to glow red-hot and ignite the gas. While effective, these ignitors are quite fragile and typically last about three to five years. It’s important to handle them with care—the oils from your skin can cause damage, so never touch a new one with your bare hands. A more durable alternative made of silicon nitride can last five to ten years, making it a smart upgrade.
Spark Ignitors
Less common in new furnaces but still found in many systems, a spark ignitor works just like a spark plug in your car. It uses a high-voltage electrical spark to create an arc between two electrodes, which then ignites the gas-air mixture. You’ll often hear a distinct clicking sound right before the furnace burners kick on if you have this type of ignitor. While they aren’t as prevalent as HSIs, spark ignitors are a reliable and effective way to get your furnace fired up. If that clicking sound never leads to heat, it’s a good sign the ignitor may need attention.
How to Tell If Your Furnace Ignitor Is Failing
When your furnace decides to stop working on a chilly day, it’s easy to assume the worst. But often, the culprit is a small, inexpensive part: the furnace ignitor. This little component is responsible for lighting the gas that heats your home, and when it fails, the whole system comes to a halt. The good news is that a failing ignitor usually gives off a few clear warning signs before it quits for good.
Learning to spot these signs can save you from a freezing house and help you figure out your next steps. From strange sounds to a complete lack of heat, your furnace has ways of telling you what’s wrong. If you’re noticing any of the following issues, there’s a good chance your furnace ignitor is on its last legs and needs attention. If these problems sound familiar but you’re not comfortable troubleshooting, our team is always ready to handle your heating repair.
No Heat from Your Vents
This is the most obvious and frustrating sign. You hear the furnace kick on, the blower starts humming, but the air pushing through your vents is lukewarm or just plain cold. If your furnace runs but doesn’t produce any heat, a bad ignitor is one of the most common causes. The system is trying to work, but the ignitor isn’t getting hot enough to light the burners. As a safety measure, your furnace won’t release gas if the ignitor fails, preventing a dangerous situation. So, while the fan circulates air, the heating part of the equation is missing entirely.
Strange Clicking or Buzzing Sounds
Have you noticed your furnace making a repeated clicking sound for more than a few seconds when it tries to start up? While a single click is normal, continuous clicking without the whoosh of the burners lighting is a classic symptom of a failing ignitor. This sound is often the gas valve opening and trying to feed the burners, but since the ignitor isn’t doing its job, the valve closes again. The furnace will attempt this cycle a few times before its safety protocol shuts the system down. If you hear that persistent clicking, it’s a clear signal that the ignition process is failing.
Your Furnace Cycles but Won’t Fire Up
Short-cycling is when your furnace turns on and off in rapid succession without ever completing a full heating cycle. You might hear it start up, run for a minute or two, and then shut down—long before your house reaches the temperature on the thermostat. This can happen when the ignitor is weak or failing. The furnace’s flame sensor doesn’t detect a flame within a few seconds of the gas valve opening, so it shuts everything down to prevent gas from building up. The system will then wait a few minutes and try again, leading to that frustrating on-and-off pattern.
You Can See Cracks or Damage
Sometimes, the proof is right in front of you. If you’re comfortable doing so, you can perform a quick visual inspection of the ignitor. First, make sure you shut off all power to the furnace at the breaker box. Once it’s safe, remove the furnace’s access panel and locate the ignitor. A healthy hot surface ignitor will look intact, but a failing one may have visible cracks, a chalky white spot, or a dark burn mark. These components are very fragile, and even a hairline crack can prevent it from working. If you see any physical damage, you’ve found your problem.
What to Check Before You Replace the Ignitor
Before you rush out to buy a new part, it’s smart to do a little detective work. A faulty ignitor is a common reason for a furnace to stop working, but it’s not the only one. Taking a few minutes to confirm the diagnosis can save you a trip to the store and the cost of a part you might not even need. Think of it as a bit of prep work to ensure your DIY repair is a success. Let’s walk through a few checks you can perform to make sure the ignitor is truly the culprit.
Simple Diagnostic Steps to Try First
First, let’s look for the most obvious clues. A failing ignitor often leaves a trail of evidence you can spot without any special tools. Pay attention to how your furnace is behaving. Common signs include the furnace refusing to turn on at all or shutting down right after it starts. You might also notice your circuit breaker tripping more than usual. If you feel comfortable, you can also take a look at the ignitor itself (after turning off the power!). A visible crack is a dead giveaway. Another key test is to watch it during startup; it should glow a bright orange. If it doesn’t glow, it’s likely failed. These symptoms often point to a need for furnace repair.
How to Test Your Ignitor with a Multimeter
If you want to be absolutely certain the ignitor is the problem, you can test it with a multimeter. This tool measures electrical resistance and can tell you definitively if the ignitor has failed. If you’re familiar with using a multimeter, this is a quick and easy way to confirm your diagnosis before you proceed. You’ll be checking for a specific range of ohms (a unit of electrical resistance) based on the ignitor’s specifications. If the reading is way off or shows an open circuit, you’ve found your problem. If you’re not comfortable with this step, that’s perfectly okay! It’s a good point to pause and give us a call for a professional opinion.
Ruling Out Other Furnace Issues
It’s also important to consider that another component could be causing the issue. If your furnace works intermittently—sometimes firing up just fine and other times failing—the ignitor might not be the only problem. Issues with a gas valve, a malfunctioning pressure switch, or even flue blockages can mimic the symptoms of a bad ignitor. Misdiagnosing the problem can lead to frustration and wasted money on parts you don’t need. Properly identifying the root cause is the key to a reliable fix. Our team offers comprehensive furnace services to pinpoint the exact issue and get your heat running smoothly again.
How to Choose the Right Replacement Ignitor
Once you’ve confirmed the ignitor is the problem, the next step is finding the right replacement part. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation; getting the exact match for your furnace is critical for it to work safely and efficiently. Using the wrong part can lead to further damage or prevent your furnace from starting at all. Think of it like finding the right key for a lock—close doesn’t count.
Choosing the correct ignitor involves three key steps: identifying your furnace model, deciding on the type of ignitor you want, and confirming the new part is compatible. It might sound a little technical, but it’s a straightforward process. If you follow these steps, you’ll have the right part in hand and be ready for the installation. And if you’d rather leave the part sourcing and replacement to an expert, our team is always ready to handle your heating repair needs from start to finish.
Finding Your Furnace’s Model Number
Your furnace’s model number is the single most important piece of information you need. It’s the blueprint for finding any replacement part. The best place to start is your furnace’s owner’s manual, which should have all the specific details listed.
If you can’t find the manual, don’t worry. The model number is also printed on a specification plate or sticker on the furnace itself. You can usually find this sticker on the exterior of the cabinet or just inside the main service panel. Grab your phone, turn on the flashlight, and take a clear picture of it. This way, you’ll have the model number, serial number, and other key details handy when you’re searching for the new ignitor.
Silicon Carbide vs. Silicon Nitride Ignitors
When you look for a replacement, you’ll likely see two main types of hot surface ignitors: silicon carbide and silicon nitride. Your furnace probably has a silicon carbide ignitor, as they’ve been the standard for years. They get the job done but are quite fragile—even the oil from your fingers can damage them—and typically last three to five years.
Silicon nitride ignitors are the newer, more robust option. They are much more durable and can last five to ten years or even longer. While they might cost a little more upfront, think of them as a long-term investment in your furnace’s reliability. If you plan on staying in your home for a while, upgrading to a silicon nitride model is a smart move.
Making Sure the New Part Is Compatible
With your model number and preferred ignitor type, you’re ready to find the part. The easiest way to ensure a perfect fit is to look for a “direct replacement” ignitor. These parts are specifically designed to match the original’s specifications, from the shape and size to the electrical connection.
You can find replacement ignitors for most major furnace brands, including Goodman, Carrier, and Rheem. As a certified Trane Comfort Specialist, we know how important it is to use parts that meet the manufacturer’s standards. Always cross-reference the part number from your old ignitor or your manual with the new one to confirm it’s the right match for your system.
A Quick Guide to Furnace Ignitor Brands
When you’re looking for a replacement ignitor, you’ll quickly find that it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. Each furnace manufacturer designs parts specifically for their systems to ensure safety and peak performance. Using a generic or incorrect part can lead to inefficiency or even damage your furnace. That’s why it’s so important to match the new ignitor to your furnace brand and model. Below is a quick rundown of what to expect from some of the most common brands we see here in the DFW area. If you ever feel unsure about which part to choose, our team is always ready to help with professional heating repair.
Trane Ignitors
Trane is known for its durability and reliability, and its ignitors are no exception. Most modern Trane furnaces use a silicon nitride hot surface ignitor, which is a robust material designed for a much longer service life than older silicon carbide models. According to Trane, these ignitors are built to last, providing consistent and efficient ignition for years. As a certified Trane Comfort Specialist, we have extensive experience with these systems and can confirm they are top-quality. When you buy a genuine Trane OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part, you’re getting an ignitor engineered specifically for your unit’s performance and safety standards.
Rheem Ignitors
Rheem furnaces are another popular choice for homeowners, and their ignitors are designed to be just as dependable. These parts are built with durable materials that can handle the high temperatures required for ignition without failing prematurely. One of the key benefits many people appreciate about Rheem ignitors is their straightforward design, which often makes for a simpler installation process. While you should always prioritize safety, this user-friendly aspect makes them a common choice for homeowners who are comfortable with DIY repairs. Just be sure to match the part number exactly to your furnace model to ensure a perfect fit and proper function.
Goodman Ignitors
Goodman has built a reputation for providing quality, affordable HVAC solutions, and their replacement parts follow suit. Goodman ignitors are engineered for efficiency, heating up quickly to ignite the gas and get your furnace running without delay. This rapid ignition helps your furnace operate at its best, avoiding wasted fuel and reducing strain on other components. The company offers a wide variety of ignitors compatible with their extensive range of furnace models, so finding the correct one is usually a simple process. Their robust design ensures they can stand up to the demands of a busy heating season.
Carrier Ignitors
As a leading name in the HVAC industry, Carrier designs its components with precision and high performance in mind. Carrier ignitors are built from advanced materials that contribute to their longevity and consistent operation. These parts are not interchangeable; they are created to meet the exact specifications of particular Carrier furnace models. This ensures that the ignition process is not only effective but also completely safe. When you choose a genuine Carrier ignitor, you’re investing in a part that will maintain your system’s efficiency and reliability, giving you peace of mind that your furnace is operating exactly as the manufacturer intended.
How Much Does a Furnace Ignitor Replacement Cost?
Let’s talk about the bottom line. When your furnace ignitor gives out, one of the first questions you probably have is, “How much is this going to set me back?” The good news is that this is one of the more affordable furnace repairs you’ll face. The final cost really comes down to two main things: the price of the replacement part and whether you decide to tackle the job yourself or call in a professional. The specific type of ignitor your furnace needs also plays a role in the part’s cost. Below, we’ll break down what you can expect to pay, so you can make the best decision for your home and your budget.
Average Cost for Different Ignitor Types
The replacement ignitor itself is fairly inexpensive. You can typically find one for between $20 and $100. The price varies depending on the type of ignitor—whether it’s a more common silicon carbide model or a more durable (and slightly pricier) silicon nitride version. Your furnace brand also affects the cost, as some manufacturer-specific parts are more expensive than universal-fit options. For most DIY projects, you can expect the part to cost you somewhere in the neighborhood of $20 to $45. It’s a small price for a component that’s so critical to keeping your home warm and comfortable through the winter.
Professional Installation vs. DIY Savings
If you choose to replace the ignitor yourself, your only cost is the part. However, if you’re not comfortable working with your furnace’s electrical components, professional installation is the way to go. Hiring a technician will typically cost between $150 and $300, which covers both the part and labor. If your furnace is still under warranty, you might only pay for the service call, which is often around $150. For a job done safely and correctly, many homeowners find the peace of mind is well worth the cost. If you decide you’d rather leave it to an expert, our team is always ready to handle your heating repair needs.
Where to Find the Best Price
Ready to buy your replacement part? You have a few options. Online retailers and specialized HVAC supply sites offer a huge selection of furnace ignitors, often at competitive prices. You can also check with local HVAC supply houses or even big-box home improvement stores. Before you start shopping, make sure you have your furnace’s model number handy. This is essential for finding the exact ignitor you need. Comparing prices from a few different sellers can help you ensure you’re getting a good deal on the right part for your system.
Should You Replace the Ignitor Yourself?
Tackling a furnace ignitor replacement on your own can be a great way to save on labor costs, especially if you’re comfortable with basic home repairs. For many homeowners, it’s a manageable project that can get your heat back on quickly. However, it’s not a task to take lightly. Working with your furnace involves both electrical and gas systems, so your safety has to be the top priority. Before you decide to move forward, it’s important to honestly assess your skill level and make sure you understand every step of the process. If you feel even slightly unsure, remember that there’s no shame in calling a professional. Our goal is to help you make an informed decision that keeps you safe and warm.
Critical Safety Precautions
Before you even think about opening your furnace panel, let’s talk about safety. This is the most important step, and it’s non-negotiable. First, you must completely cut the power to your furnace. Go to your home’s circuit breaker and flip the switch that controls the furnace. Next, you need to shut off the gas supply. You’ll find a gas valve on the line leading to your furnace; turn it to the “Off” position. These two steps are essential to prevent electrical shock and gas leaks. It’s also a good idea to wear protective gloves and safety glasses. If you’re not 100% confident in locating these shut-offs, it’s best to stop and call for professional heating repair.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
The good news is you won’t need a massive toolbox for this job. You’ll primarily need a screwdriver or a nut driver to remove the furnace panel and the bracket holding the old ignitor. It’s also helpful to have a multimeter on hand to test the old ignitor and confirm it’s the source of the problem. Of course, you’ll need the new ignitor, which you can find at most hardware or appliance parts stores. A replacement part typically costs between $20 and $100, depending on your furnace model. Having the right tools and materials ready before you start will make the entire process go much more smoothly.
Common DIY Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common—and costly—mistakes people make is touching the new ignitor’s element with their bare hands. The oils from your skin can create hot spots on the element, causing it to burn out and fail prematurely. Always handle the new ignitor by its ceramic base or wear clean gloves during installation. Another pitfall is proceeding with the replacement when you aren’t sure it’s the right fix. If the old ignitor doesn’t have a visible crack or if you feel uncertain at any point, it’s a sign to pause. Forcing a repair can lead to bigger problems, so if you hit a snag, it’s always better to contact us for professional help.
How to Replace Your Furnace Ignitor: A Step-by-Step Guide
Ready to tackle the replacement yourself? With the right tools and a little patience, this is a very manageable DIY project. Just remember that you’re working with your home’s electrical and gas systems, so safety is the top priority. Follow these steps carefully, and don’t hesitate to stop and call for help if you feel unsure at any point. If you’d rather leave it to an expert, our team is always ready to handle your heating repair needs and get your home warm again in no time.
Shutting Off the Power and Gas Supply
Before you even think about opening the furnace panel, you must completely cut off the power and gas. First, head to your home’s main electrical panel and find the circuit breaker connected to your furnace. Flip it to the “Off” position. Next, locate the gas shut-off valve for your furnace—it’s usually a handle near the gas line running into the unit. Turn the handle so it’s perpendicular to the pipe, which shuts off the gas flow. Double-check that both are off before moving on. This step is non-negotiable and ensures your safety throughout the repair.
Removing the Old Ignitor
With the power and gas off, you can remove the furnace’s access panel. Look inside near the burners to locate the ignitor; it’s a small, often fork-shaped device mounted on a ceramic base. Once you’ve found it, carefully disconnect the electrical harness connecting it to the furnace. Next, use a screwdriver or nut driver to remove the screw or screws holding the ignitor bracket in place. The old ignitor can be very brittle, so gently slide it out of its mounting bracket. If you notice other signs of wear and tear inside the furnace, it might be a good time to schedule a full preventative maintenance check.
Installing the New Ignitor
Now it’s time to install the new part, but be careful how you handle it. The element on a new ignitor is extremely fragile and can be damaged by the oils on your skin. Always wear clean gloves and handle the new ignitor only by its ceramic base. Carefully slide it into the mounting bracket, making sure it’s positioned just like the old one. Secure it with the mounting screw(s), but don’t overtighten them, as this can crack the ceramic. Once it’s in place, reconnect the wire harness. You should hear or feel a click, letting you know it’s securely connected.
Testing Your Work
With the new ignitor installed and the access panel securely back in place, you’re ready to test your work. First, turn the gas supply valve back on. Then, go to your circuit breaker and flip it back to the “On” position to restore power to the furnace. Head to your thermostat and set it to heat, turning the temperature up a few degrees to trigger the heating cycle. You should hear the furnace kick on. Look through the viewing window—you should see the new ignitor glow a bright orange, followed by the burners igniting. If everything works and warm air starts flowing, you’ve done it! If not, it’s best to contact us for professional help.
When to Call the Pros at Taylormade Heat and Air
Tackling a DIY furnace repair can feel empowering, but it’s just as important to know when to step back and call for professional help. While replacing an ignitor can be straightforward, furnaces are complex systems. Sometimes, what seems like a simple fix is actually a symptom of a more complex issue, and working with gas and electrical components always carries inherent risks. Your safety and the long-term health of your HVAC system are what matter most. If you find yourself hesitating at any point in the process, trust that instinct. Calling a qualified technician isn’t giving up; it’s making a smart, responsible choice for your home and family. At Taylormade Heat and Air, we’re here to provide that expert support whenever you need it, ensuring the job is done correctly and safely from the start.
Your Safety Comes First
Your furnace combines electricity and natural gas, a duo that requires respect and expertise. If you’re not completely comfortable shutting off these utilities and handling the internal components, it’s best to leave the job to a professional. There’s no DIY project worth risking your safety. Our technicians are trained to handle these systems every day, following strict safety protocols to protect your home. If you have any doubts about the process, from identifying the right breaker to disconnecting the gas line, please give us a call. We offer 24/7 emergency HVAC services to solve the problem quickly and safely.
The Problem Isn’t Always Clear
What if you replace the ignitor and your furnace still won’t fire up? Or what if the old ignitor doesn’t have any visible cracks or damage? These are signs that the issue might lie elsewhere in the system—perhaps with the flame sensor, control board, or gas valve. Guessing can lead to buying unnecessary parts and wasting time. A professional diagnosis from our team can pinpoint the exact cause of the failure. We use specialized tools to test each component, ensuring we fix the right problem the first time and restore your heat efficiently.
Protecting Your Warranty and Investment
Many furnace warranties have clauses that can be voided by improper repairs or the use of non-certified parts. A DIY mistake could end up costing you far more than a service call. When you hire a certified technician from Taylormade Heat and Air, you’re not just getting a repair; you’re getting peace of mind. Our work is warrantied, and as a Trane Comfort Specialist, we adhere to the highest industry standards. This protects your manufacturer’s warranty and ensures your HVAC system remains a reliable investment for years to come.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long should a furnace ignitor last? The lifespan of your furnace ignitor really depends on the type you have. The most common kind, a silicon carbide ignitor, typically works for about three to five years. If you have a newer, more durable silicon nitride model, you can expect it to last much longer, often between five and ten years. Keep in mind that a furnace that cycles on and off very frequently may wear out the ignitor a bit faster than average.
Can I just clean my furnace ignitor instead of replacing it? While you can clean a furnace’s flame sensor, the ignitor is a different story. These components are incredibly fragile, and attempting to clean or scrape off any buildup almost always results in breaking the element. If you see residue on the ignitor, it’s usually a sign that the part has reached the end of its life. The best and safest solution is always to replace a failing ignitor, not try to repair it.
Why did my furnace ignitor fail in the first place? Most of the time, an ignitor fails simply due to old age and normal wear. Think about it—this small part heats up to thousands of degrees every time your furnace kicks on. Over years of repeated heating and cooling cycles, the material eventually becomes brittle and cracks. Other less common causes can include power surges, a dirty furnace filter causing the system to cycle too often, or damage from being handled improperly during a previous installation.
What happens if I use the wrong replacement ignitor? Using an incompatible ignitor is a bad idea that can lead to a few different problems. In the best-case scenario, your furnace simply won’t turn on because the part’s voltage or resistance doesn’t match what the system’s control board is looking for. In a worse scenario, the wrong part could damage the control board, leading to a much more expensive repair. It’s absolutely critical to match the new ignitor to your furnace’s specific make and model to ensure it works safely and correctly.
I replaced the ignitor, but my furnace still won’t turn on. What’s next? It’s definitely frustrating when a fix doesn’t work. If you’ve installed a new ignitor and the furnace still isn’t heating, it means the ignitor likely wasn’t the root of the problem. The issue could be with another component, such as the flame sensor, the pressure switch, or the main control board. At this point, it’s best to stop troubleshooting on your own and call a professional. A technician can accurately diagnose the real issue and get your heat running safely.
