Categories
- AC Filters
- AC Repair
- Air Conditioner Maintenance
- Air Conditioner Repair
- Air Conditioners
- Air Conditioning Services
- Air Quality
- Cleaning Tips
- Cooling
- Duct System
- Ducted Air Conditioner
- Ductless Air Conditioner
- Emergency Repairs
- Energy Costs
- Expert Help
- Fans
- FAQ
- Filters
- Fireplaces
- Fun
- Furnace Installations
- Furnace Repairs
- Furnaces
- Gas Fireplaces
- Gas Line
- Gas Line Installations
- Heat Pumps
- Heating
- Heating and Cooling
- Heating Contractors
- heating system
- Heating Technicians
- Humidity
- HVAC
- HVAC Contractors
- HVAC experts
- HVAC Noises
- HVAC professionals
- HVAC Repairs
- HVAC Service
- Insulation
- Maintenance
- Natural Gas
- Pestibulum molestieenean
- Saving Money
- Water
- Water Heaters
- Work
[BACK]
Ignition Issues With Your Furnace
Posted On: October 11, 2024
If your furnace isn’t turning on or staying lit, it may be experiencing ignition problems. Ignition issues can be frustrating, especially during colder months when you rely on your heating system to function properly. Understanding the possible causes can help you identify and solve the problem before calling in a professional. Here's a guide to common furnace ignition issues and potential solutions.
Common Causes of Furnace Ignition Problems
-
Pilot Light Issues: Older furnaces typically use a pilot light for ignition. If the pilot light is out, the furnace won’t ignite. This can be due to a draft, a dirty pilot light, or a malfunctioning thermocouple.
Solution: If the pilot light is out, try relighting it according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If it won’t stay lit, check for drafts or clean the pilot light assembly. You may also need to replace the thermocouple, which detects whether the pilot light is on.
-
Faulty Ignition Sensor: For newer furnaces with electronic ignition, the ignition sensor can sometimes malfunction. Over time, dirt and grime can accumulate on the sensor, causing it to fail in detecting the flame.
Solution: Cleaning the ignition sensor often resolves this issue. Turn off the furnace, remove the sensor, clean it with fine sandpaper or a brush, and reinstall it.
-
Ignitor Failure: Furnaces equipped with hot surface ignitors rely on a small electrical component to create heat for ignition. If the ignitor fails, the furnace won’t start.
Solution: Ignitors can wear out over time, and a replacement is usually necessary. This part is fragile, so it's best to have a professional technician handle the replacement.
-
Gas Supply Issues: If your furnace isn't getting enough gas, it won’t ignite. This could be due to a closed gas valve, low gas pressure, or an issue with the gas line.
Solution: Ensure that the gas valve is open and check your home's gas supply. If the issue persists, contact your gas company or a technician to inspect the gas lines.
-
Dirty Burners: Over time, the burners in your furnace can become clogged with dust and debris. Dirty burners can prevent proper ignition and cause the furnace to operate inefficiently.
Solution: Cleaning the burners can restore normal operation. This task is often best left to a professional, as improper cleaning can damage the components.
-
Blocked Air Intake or Exhaust: Modern furnaces have a safety feature that prevents ignition if the air intake or exhaust vent is blocked. This is a safety precaution to avoid dangerous gases from building up.
Solution: Check that the vents are clear of obstructions like leaves, snow, or debris. Clearing these blockages should allow the furnace to ignite properly.
When to Call a Professional
While some furnace ignition issues can be resolved with basic troubleshooting, others require the expertise of an HVAC professional. If you're unsure or uncomfortable handling any components, it's best to contact a certified technician to ensure safety and proper repairs. Regular maintenance can also help prevent ignition problems, keeping your furnace running smoothly throughout the winter.
By addressing furnace ignition issues early, you can avoid more significant problems and ensure your home stays warm and comfortable.
[BACK]
See What Our Customers Are Saying:
Jan 9, 2016
I was referred to Twintech by a neighbour and was not disappointed. Not only was the customer service excellent their workmanship was second to none. Greg and Grant work extremely clean covering the pathway to the furnace room, labeling the essential parts, left the area spotless and were efficient. They cleaned up the mess left by the previous installers (wiring, improperly installed AC coil, and gaps in venting etc). They also ran through the operation of the new furnace and gave me some maintenance tips. Greg and Grant are professional and all around good guys. I will definitely recommend their service to anyone without hesitation.
Dec 18, 2015
Very satisfied with service from Twintech , beginning with all the information provided by Dave , which helped make the decision much easier . Installation was very smooth & done on time as promised & cleanup was well done . Would definitely recommend this company & use them again for any future needs . Well done.
Sep 18, 2015
Twintech Heating & Cooling Inc. came in and replaced my 39 year old furnace with a beautiful Napoleon variable high efficiency furnace! Their work was efficient and professional and they were a pleasure to deal with, from sales to installation! I would highly recommend them.
May 6, 2015
After receiving numerous quotes to replace my old furnace and AC unit (which was 20 years old) I went with Twintech. Dave, in sales, answered questions professionally and promptly and worked diligently in order to secure my business. Installation was scheduled the week after and Greg and Peter showed up, as scheduled, and did a fine job installing both units. The site was left tidy and neat. I would highly recommend Twintech for your furnace and AC work.
Dec 17, 2014
I chose TwinTech because they installed my new furnace a few years ago and did a great job. When they installed my new A/C, they replaced all parts -- the copper pipes, the housing on top of the furnace and the wiring. (Apparently, the wiring for my old A/C was insufficient.) Their pricing was competitive. The sales representative came to see me within a few hours of my call. My new A/C was installed a few days later and I couldn't be happier with Twintech's professionalism and work. I would recommend TwinTech to any homeowner.
Feb 3, 2014
Had a great experience with this company. Great price and great customer service. You wont be disappointed with twintech. Discussed the job with Greg while he was installing who was extremely informative and obviously enjoys the work he does.
Mar 31, 2014
I needed my AC unit relocated due to upcoming landscape work. I reached out to the Twintech team through Homestars. Dave connected with me immediately to discuss the project and various options. We decided the best option was to mount the unit on the wall. Greg was in touch with me the same day as well and we scheduled the work for later that same week. This was a small job so I did not think I would get immediate attention. The Twintech team exceeded my expectations in every respect. They were very knowledgeable and friendly. The team arrived exactly on time on the scheduled day and worked efficiently to get the job done quickly. I would definitely use Twintech again for any Heating and AC projects.
Jan 1, 2015
I have used Greg Dainty for over 15 years in 3 different homes, for heating, cooling, pool heaters, appliances and bbq lines. Greg has always been so professional, friendly and the workmanship nothing short of fantastic. Greg has always discussed my options and fixing versus replacing, giving his honest opinion and what works best for me cost effective wise and long term. I have valued his opinion so much and have not trusted my gas needs with anyone since using him. I have also referred him to many of my friends and family and have always been so thankful with how well and quickly he looks after us all. I hold Greg in the highest regard and would recommend him to anyone with complete confidence!
Jan 1, 2015
Really nice honest guys. It was a pleasure to do business with a company that does exactly what they say theyre going to do! My basement was cleaner after they installed my new furnace and AC. Thanks again Greg and Grant and for doing such a great job.
Jan 1, 2015
5 star service!! I had twin tech install a high efficiency furnace and hot water tank at my home. I am taking time to write this review as a thanks for what I viewed as next level service that went above and beyond. Prior to installation they explained my specific options without pushy sales tactics and up front costs. Greg and Grant replaced a large portion of the duct work (built in their own shop) that had rusted over the years which resulted in a great looking job. It was a pleasure to work with people are passionate and take pride in their work. Following the installation they explained all aspects and maintenance of the new equipment. Products have worked flawlessly. Thanks again Greg and Grant! Highly recommend!!
Related Links:
oshawa gas furnace problems, ac service call, pickering hvac prices, local ac services, ajax furnace inspection, ac repair services, whitby furnace replacement, furnace repairs pickering, oshawa hvac furnaces, central ac service, ac unit maintenance, pickering gas furnace problems, ac installation near me, ajax hvac repair, hvac repairs, ac contractors, ac repair and service, whitby furnaces, residential furnace, residential ac repair, pickering hvac furnace, pickering furnace service, pickering furnaces, oshawa furnace inspection, oshawa furnaces, nearby ac repair,