How to Clean Furnace Ignitor: A StepbyStep Guide
How to Clean Furnace Ignitor?
To clean a furnace ignitor, you will need to follow specific steps based on the type of ignition system your gas furnace has.
For hot surface ignitors, turn off the power to the furnace, disconnect the ignitor, and gently clean the probe with steel wool or emery cloth.
Avoid touching the ignitor with bare hands to prevent oil damage.
Spark ignitors and blocked pilot tubes can be cleaned using compressed air.
If issues persist, it may be necessary to replace the ignitor.
Key Points:
- Follow specific steps based on the type of ignition system your gas furnace has
- For hot surface ignitors, turn off power, disconnect ignitor, and clean the probe
- Use steel wool or emery cloth to clean the probe
- Avoid touching the ignitor with bare hands to prevent oil damage
- Use compressed air to clean spark ignitors and blocked pilot tubes
- If issues persist, consider replacing the ignitor
Did You Know?
1. The furnace ignitor, often a small ceramic piece, is responsible for igniting the gas in your furnace to produce heat.
2. Did you know that some furnace ignitors are made using a rare element called silicon carbide? This compound is known for its high resistance to extreme temperatures.
3. Before ignitors became commonplace, pilot lights were used in furnaces. They required a constant flow of gas to remain lit, whereas ignitors only activate when needed, improving energy efficiency.
4. Furnace ignitors are very delicate parts and can be easily damaged if not handled with care. It is recommended to wear gloves when touching them to avoid skin oils damaging the surface.
5. In order to ensure the proper functioning of your furnace ignitor, it is important to clean it regularly. A mixture of warm, soapy water can be used to gently remove any dirt or debris, followed by a thorough rinse and drying process.
Types Of Furnace Ignition Systems
Gas furnaces have different ignition systems that play a crucial role in the heating process. Understanding these systems can help homeowners effectively clean their furnace ignitor and ensure their heating system runs smoothly.
One type of ignition system found in older furnaces is the standing pilot. This system involves a small flame that stays lit continuously, ready to ignite the gas when the furnace is turned on. However, standing pilot systems are the least energy-efficient option, as they consume fuel even when the furnace is not in use.
On the other hand, high-efficiency furnaces often feature hot surface ignitors. These ignitors are resistive heating elements that need to warm up and glow red hot before igniting the gas. They are designed to provide a more efficient and reliable ignition process. In some cases, even standard efficiency furnaces may be equipped with hot surface ignitors for improved performance.
Another type of ignition system is the spark ignitor. If you hear clicking sounds when your furnace starts, it indicates the presence of a spark ignitor. These ignitors create a spark to ignite the gas, ensuring a controlled and efficient combustion process.
It is essential to familiarize yourself with the type of ignition system your furnace has, as this will determine the specific cleaning method required for the ignitor.
Hot Surface Ignitors Vs Spark Ignitors
When it comes to cleaning furnace ignitors, it’s important to understand the differences between hot surface ignitors and spark ignitors. These two types require distinct cleaning approaches to ensure their optimal functionality.
Hot surface ignitors are typically identifiable by their white porcelain base and long metal bar. They rely on resistive heating to reach a high temperature and ignite the gas. To clean a hot surface ignitor, it is essential to first turn off the power to the furnace. Once the power is off, the ignitor can be disconnected from its wiring. Gently cleaning the probe with steel wool or emery cloth helps remove any carbon deposits or debris that may hinder its performance.
Spark ignitors, on the other hand, use electrodes to create a spark that ignites the gas. These ignitors have a pair of bars forming the electrodes and require a different cleaning approach. If you notice a dirty spark ignitor or a blocked pilot tube, using compressed air with a long applicator can effectively blast away any debris.
It is essential to approach the cleaning of these two types of ignitors with caution and care. Avoid touching the ignitor with bare hands, as the oils from your fingers could damage older-style hot surface ignitors.
- Hot surface ignitors:
- Identify by white porcelain base and long metal bar
- Rely on resistive heating
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Clean the probe with steel wool or emery cloth
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Spark ignitors:
- Use electrodes to create a spark
- Have a pair of bars forming the electrodes
- Clean with compressed air and a long applicator
Cleaning Hot Surface Ignitors
To clean a hot surface ignitor, follow these step-by-step instructions:
- Turn off power to the furnace. This ensures your safety while working on the ignitor.
- Locate the ignitor, which is usually mounted on a metal wall close to the first burner.
- Carefully disconnect the ignitor from its wiring. Take note of the wire connections to ensure easy reassembly later.
- Gently clean the ignitor probe using steel wool or emery cloth. Be cautious not to apply excessive force or cause any damage.
- Once cleaned, reassemble the ignitor by connecting it back to the wiring.
- Restore power to the furnace and test its functionality.
Cleaning hot surface ignitors helps remove carbon deposits and ensures smooth ignition. However, if issues persist even after cleaning, it may be an indication that a new ignitor is needed.
- Regularly cleaning hot surface ignitors is important to maintain their efficiency.
- Use steel wool or emery cloth for cleaning, avoiding any excessive force.
- Ensure proper reassembly of the ignitor by keeping track of wire connections.
- Safety should always be the top priority when working with electronics and power sources.
Cleaning Spark Ignitors And Standing Pilots
Cleaning Spark Ignitors and Standing Pilots
To ensure proper ignition and maintain the effectiveness of spark ignitors and standing pilots, a different cleaning approach is required. Follow these steps to clean these types of ignitors effectively:
- Turn off the power to the furnace.
- Inspect the spark ignitor or standing pilot for any visible dirt or debris.
- Use compressed air with a long applicator to blast away any accumulated debris. This helps to clear any obstructions hindering the ignition process.
- Ensure that the pilot tube is not blocked. A blocked pilot tube can negatively impact the performance of the ignitor or standing pilot.
- Once cleaned, restore power to the furnace and test its functionality. This step is crucial to ensure that the cleaning process has been successful and that the ignitor or standing pilot is functioning properly.
Regular maintenance of these elements is essential to prevent any potential issues from arising and to ensure their continued effectiveness. By following these cleaning instructions, you can keep your spark ignitors and standing pilots in optimal condition.
Precautions And Tips For Cleaning Ignitors
While cleaning furnace ignitors, it’s important to keep a few precautions and tips in mind to ensure your safety and the effective functioning of the ignition system:
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Always turn off the power to the furnace before working on the ignitor. This is essential to avoid any electrical accidents.
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Never touch the ignitor with bare hands, as the oils from your fingers can damage the ignitor or hinder its performance.
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Use caution when cleaning hot surface ignitors, as they are delicate and can be easily damaged. Avoid applying excessive force or using abrasive materials.
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Consider using compressed air with a long applicator to effectively clean spark ignitors and remove any debris.
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If you have an older-style hot surface ignitor, beware of the possibility of oil from your fingers damaging its functionality. Take extra care and avoid touching the ignitor directly.
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Regularly clean your furnace ignitor as part of routine maintenance to prevent carbon build-up and ensure optimal performance.
By following these precautions and tips, you can safely and effectively clean your furnace ignitor, promoting efficient furnace operation and extending the lifespan of the system.
When To Replace The Furnace Ignitor
Cleaning the furnace ignitor should resolve most ignition-related issues. However, in some cases, a replacement may be necessary. Here are a few indicators that it may be time to replace your furnace ignitor:
- If you have followed all the cleaning steps but continue to experience ignition problems, it may be an indication that the ignitor has reached the end of its lifespan.
- Noticeable cracks or damages on the ignitor base may require a replacement.
If you are unsure about whether to replace the ignitor, it is recommended to consult a professional technician who can assess the situation and provide expert advice.
“Knowing how to clean your furnace ignitor is essential for maintaining the efficiency and functionality of your heating system.”
Regular cleaning and maintenance will help prevent ignition issues and extend the lifespan of your furnace ignitor, keeping your home warm and comfortable throughout the colder months.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I clean or replace furnace ignitor?
When it comes to deciding whether to clean or replace a furnace ignitor, it is important to prioritize its fragility. This delicate component should be handled with care to avoid breakage and the need for a replacement. Refrain from touching the element with bare hands as older hot surface ignitors can be damaged by skin oil. For cleaning purposes, gently rub the probe with an emery cloth or fine steel wool to effectively remove any burnt carbon.
Can you reset furnace ignitor?
To reset the furnace ignitor, start by switching off the power. Remove the burner door to access the ignitor, then turn it to the “off” position and wait for at least 5 minutes. Once the timer is up, switch the ignitor back to the “on” position and reattach the burner door. Proceed to turn the power source back on and restart the furnace, ensuring a refreshed ignitor ready to ignite the heat.
Is the furnace ignitor AC or DC?
The furnace ignitor can operate on both AC and DC power sources. Silicon nitride igniters, such as Honeywell’s Glowfly, are commonly used and can be powered by DC, typically at around 80VDC. However, they can also function with AC power, ranging from 24V to 120V.
How do I know if my ignitor is good?
To determine if your ignitor is functioning properly, you can perform a simple visual inspection. Check if there is any visible damage or cracks on the ignitor. If you notice any signs of wear and tear, it is likely that your ignitor needs to be replaced. Additionally, you can try turning on your furnace and observe if the ignitor emits a small spark. If there is no spark or if it is weak, it is a clear indication of a faulty ignitor. In such cases, it is best to consult a professional technician to diagnose and resolve the heating problem within your furnace.