This is the most common type of ignition in modern furnaces, and it works similarly to an incandescent light bulb. An electric current runs through a metal probe positioned over the burners, and the current causes the probe to turn hot the same way filaments in a light bulb glow hot when current runs through them.
The Short Answer Is: Warning signs of a bad furnace ignitor include the furnace not starting or heating, a noticeable clicking sound without ignition, or frequent short cycling where the furnace turns on and off rapidly. Additionally, if the ignitor appears cracked or discolored, it may need replacement.
Common electronic ignition issues:
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.
Like an extinguished pilot, a faulty ignitor prevents a furnace from heating up. Unlike pilots, electronic ignitors cannot be manually lit when they fail. However, a homeowner can take troubleshooting measures to determine if the ignitor is bad or if some other issue is causing the furnace not to blow hot air.
An electronic ignition system operates within electronic circuits, typically utilising transistors that are controlled by sensors to generate electric pulses. These pulses, in turn, produce a high-voltage spark capable of igniting the lean mixture in the engine, resulting in improved fuel economy and reduced emissions.
The symptoms of a bad ignition control module and a bad distributor module overlap significantly, but some common signs that may indicate a bad distributor control module include engine misfires, difficult starting or no start, stalling, rough idle, poor fuel economy, lack of power and acceleration, and increased ...
Common Ignition System Problems
One of the most common is a dead battery. If your battery dies, your vehicle won't have enough power to start. Other common problems include a faulty starter, a bad ignition switch, a faulty distributor, and worn spark plugs.
High Energy (Electronic) Ignition System
Also, the ignition timing cannot be as precisely controlled as with more sophisticated systems, resulting in poor fuel efficiency and lethargic acceleration.
Defective Igniter or Pilot Light
If it clicks but your furnace won't ignite after the combustion cycle, the electronic ignition systems probably need to be replaced. In cases where the furnace ignition starts normally but only stays on for a few minutes and then goes out, a new pilot light likely needs to be installed.
1. The Furnace Won't Run. When a furnace doesn't run at all, that could be a sign you have a bad ignitor that needs replacing.
Typically, you'll find it inside the air handler, either next to or above your furnace. In most newer systems, the button is often directly next to the blower motor, while in older systems, it may be harder to spot as it is sometimes underneath or behind the motor.
Most likely, your furnace is making a clicking noise and not providing heat because your furnace's spark igniter is trying to ignite your pilot light or burners but is failing to do so. In other words, there's an ignition system malfunction that needs to be fixed. Otherwise, your furnace won't start.
Furnace Not Igniting Because of Incorrect Thermostat Setting
Make sure the thermostat is set to heating and that the temperature is set high enough to actually turn the furnace on. It may be set at too low of a temperature to activate the furnace.
Many newer cars these days have fobless ignitions, which means that your EIS (electronic ignition system) could be failing. You'll need to seek diagnostics, especially if you have limited symptoms. EIS modules, steering lock modules, and gateway modules can also cause issues with starting your vehicle.
When converting from points to electronic ignition, you've got two options. You can either convert your existing distributor, or you can install a new distributor.
Proper functioning of the electronic ignition system is crucial for the overall performance and efficiency of the engine. When the system malfunctions, it can lead to various issues such as misfires, poor fuel economy, difficulty starting the engine, and even engine stalling.
Most natural gas furnaces have changed over to using electronic ignition systems instead. The reason for the change is to make furnaces more energy-efficient as well as more reliable.
You can replace the ignition switch yourself, but it's not an easy task: you will have to remove the steering wheel and work close to the airbag - which can be dangerous. Don't hesitate to call a professional mechanic if you're not feeling confident.