What Homeowners Should Know About Furnace Ignitor Replacement
A furnace helps keep your home warm during cold days. A large number of little components work together to make the furnace run. The ignitor is one of these components and it starts the heat within the furnace. The furnace may fail to supply warm air when this component breaks down. This is the part which many homeowners do not consider until something goes wrong. However, understanding it can make you know more about your heating system. In some cases, the ignitor wears out after many uses. When this happens, there might be a necessity of furnace ignitor replacement. This guide is going to tell the homeowners what to know when it comes to replacing the ignitors of a furnace.
What Is a Furnace Ignitor?
A furnace ignitor is a small component that is located within your furnace. Its job is to start the heat. The ignitor is quite hot when you switch on your furnace. The gas in the burner is heated because of this heat. Then warm air is spread through your house.
Without an ignitor, the furnace cannot start. This is to say that your house will never warm. Several individuals would be unaware of this aspect until the furnace stops to heat. It is however an important component of the system.
The ignitor works with high temperatures, that’s why it wears out after some time. In case this occurs the system might require furnace ignitor replacement to make the system work again.
Signs Your Furnace Ignitor May Be Bad
There is a time when your furnace will probably have some warning signs that can be given before the ignitor stops functioning. Once you are aware of these indicators, you will be able to correct the situation on time.
When the Furnace Turns On but No Heat Comes Out
One of the typical indicators is that the furnace will turn on but no heat will exist. You can hear the system trying to start however the burners do not light. This may mean that the ignitor is not glowing.
Cold Air from the Vents
The other symptom is a cold air coming out of the vents. The fan in the furnace will work but not the heat. This often happens when the ignitor cannot light the gas.
Furnace Turns On and Off Often
When you hear that the furnace switches on and off quite a number of times., then it means short cycling. This can also be caused by a weak ignitor.
If you notice these signs, then it is good to call a professional and check the system.
Why Ignitors Stop Working
The furnace ignitors are powerful, but they do not last longer. With time the part can be damaged due to heat and utilization.
- Normal wear is one of the reasons. The ignitor heats whenever the furnace starts. It may break or be lost during numerous heating cycles.
- Dust can also cause problems. Dust accumulation can interfere with the ignitor operation when it accumulates inside the furnace. This is one reason why furnace maintenance indianapolis services are helpful.
- Power problems can be another cause. If the ignitor gets too much or little power, then it might be possible that it fails sooner.
Even a small crack in the ignitor stops functioning. That is why the system should be taken care of.
Why Furnace Maintenance Is Important
A lot of furnace issues can be prevented by proper maintenance. Basic service tests help in maintaining good functionality of the system. During furnace maintenance Indianapolis, all major components of the furnace are checked by a technician. They clean dust, check the ignitor and test the system.
Periodic maintenance assists in identifying minor issues at an early stage. In case of a weak ignitor, a technician is able to notice the problem before the furnace goes dead. Maintenance is also useful in ensuring the furnace operates effectively. An efficient and neat system consumes less energy resources and heats the house in a quick manner.
According to the majority of experts, it is recommended to have furnace services once a year. This is the easiest thing that can avoid numerous repair issues.
The Furnace Ignitor Replacement Process
Many homeowners feel worried when they hear about furnace repairs. However, the procedure of replacing the ignitor from the furnace is simple.
- The first step is, a technician turns off the electricity of the furnace. This is a measure that keeps the repair safe.
- Then they unscrew the furnace panel to reach the burner area. The burners are typically close to the ignitor.
- The technician then goes ahead and removes the old ignitor. They carefully disconnect all the wires and remove the damaged part.
- Then a new ignitor is inserted in the same position. Wires are reconnected and the panel of the furnace is closed.
- Lastly, the technician turns the furnace back on and tests the system. In case all this is successful, warm air will begin to move once again.
Furnace Replacement Cost vs Small Repairs
Sometimes individuals are concerned about the furnace replacement cost. There is a possibility that they wonder if they should replace the furnace system or repair it. It is a fact that the minor repairs can often be significantly cheaper. For example, it is much cheaper to get an ignitor replacement rather than purchasing a new furnace.
Complete replacement of the furnace may be significantly expensive as it will add a new system, installation and labor. In case, if the furnace is in proper state, then a minor fix such as changing an ignitor can be the most appropriate option.
But in case, if the furnace is very old and breaks often, it can be a good option to replace it. A professional technician can help you decide what is best.
Can You Replace a Furnace Ignitor Yourself?
Some house owners prefer to make minor repairs by themselves. Although it is possible to replace an ignitor, it is not the most secure option. The furnace consumes electricity and gas. As a beginner, it may be dangerous to work with those systems.
Ignitors are also very delicate. If you touch them with bare hands or drop them, they can break easily. Due to these factors, numerous individuals then prefer to hire the help of a professional technician.
Final Thoughts
Furnace is the most important system in your home. During cold days, it makes your family warm and comfortable. And when one of its components such as the ignitor breaks, the entire system may shut down. The good news is that the replacement of furnace ignitors is not often a complicated process. One of the trained technicians can change the part and heat will be restored to your home. Frequent repairs and annual service assistance can avoid many furnace issues.. Staying maintained is a sure way to have many years of work with your system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I replace a furnace ignitor myself?
It is possible, but it is safer to hire a professional.
How long does a furnace ignitor last?
Usually 3 to 10 years, depending on use.
How much does furnace ignitor replacement cost?
It is usually much cheaper than replacing the whole furnace.
What happens if I ignore a bad ignitor?
The furnace may stop working and your home will stay cold.
Does a bad ignitor make strange noises?
Yes, the furnace may click or short cycle.
