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A Simple Guide to Furnace Ignition Failure

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A Simple Guide to Furnace Ignition Failure

Posted On: November 4, 2024

A Simple Guide to Furnace Ignition Failure

Here’s a straightforward guide to help you troubleshoot furnace ignition failure, a common issue that can lead to a cold house in the winter. Furnace ignition failure can have multiple causes, and identifying them early can save time, energy, and repair costs.


1. Check the Thermostat

  • Ensure it’s set to “Heat”: The thermostat should be set to “heat” and at a temperature higher than the current room temperature.
  • Inspect the Batteries: Some thermostats use batteries, so replace them if necessary. This could resolve the issue without further troubleshooting.

2. Inspect the Air Filter

  • Replace Dirty Filters: A dirty air filter can restrict airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut down as a safety precaution. A fresh filter can allow your furnace to work efficiently and prevent ignition issues.

3. Look for Power Issues

  • Circuit Breaker: Check the furnace’s circuit breaker in your electrical panel. If it’s tripped, reset it once. If it trips again, you may have a larger electrical issue that requires a professional.
  • Furnace Switch: Make sure the power switch, which usually looks like a light switch near the furnace, is in the “on” position.

4. Verify Gas Supply

  • Gas Valve: If you have a gas furnace, check that the gas valve near the furnace is open. The lever should be parallel to the gas line when it’s open.
  • Gas Line and Supply: Sometimes, the gas company may have shut off the supply for maintenance. If you suspect an issue with gas flow, contact your gas provider.

5. Inspect the Igniter

  • Hot Surface Igniter: Many modern furnaces use an electric igniter, which can fail over time. A visible crack or wear on the igniter usually indicates it needs replacement. This repair often requires professional assistance.
  • Pilot Light: For furnaces with a pilot light, check that it’s lit. If not, relight it if you feel comfortable, or call a technician if you have trouble with it.

6. Examine the Flame Sensor

  • Clean the Flame Sensor: Over time, the flame sensor can become dirty, which prevents it from sensing the flame. Use a fine-grit sandpaper or a cloth to gently clean the sensor. This can often restore normal furnace function.

7. Check for Error Codes

  • Error Lights: Most modern furnaces have a diagnostic light that flashes in a particular pattern if there’s an issue. Refer to the furnace manual to interpret these error codes, which can help pinpoint the problem.

8. Assess the Blower Motor and Vents

  • Vent Blockages: Ensure nothing blocks air vents and ducts. Restricted airflow can also cause safety switches to trigger.
  • Blower Motor Reset: Some furnaces have a reset button on the blower motor. Press this if your furnace isn’t responding.

When to Call a Professional

If these steps don’t resolve the issue, it’s best to contact a licensed HVAC technician. Attempting to fix more complex problems on your own can be unsafe and may lead to further damage.


Following these steps can often solve simple ignition issues and get your furnace running smoothly again!



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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I had them replace my furnace last year. When it came time for the air conditioner this year, I did not hesitate to call Twintech again. I will also have them perform regular maintenance on them.

by Robert, Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We required a new HVAC replacement after running the old
system for 18 years.
Dave understood our requirements and gave us a quote that
covered all the necessary items.
Installation was fast and very tidy. Everything works as
it should. Our thanks to Greg, Mitch and others for their
excellent work. Recommend this family owned business to
anyone else, considering HVAC or other work.

by John Armstrong, Pickering on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I needed a new furnace and A/C to replace my 21 yr. old units, and went to the internet to view potential companies in May, I received 3 quotes,
and chose Twintech based on their salesman Dave who was very detailed and covered off everything on what Twintech was all about,
an extremely dedicated company with so many years of experience, and after reading the on line reviews I was sold on Twintech, who did not disappoint as the installation team were top notch with Greg leading,
I would highly recommend this company without any doubts, in my books they are first class all the way. Our new Amana furnace and A/C are working perfectly !

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Flawless transaction. They did exactly what they promised, showed-up on time, cleaned-up, and were highly professional. Highly recommended.

by Bill Edmondson on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Salesperson and 2 man installation team were all professional and
knew their stuff. All three were friendly and helpful, answering all
my questions. The quality of their work demonstrated their experience
and expertise in their field.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

A dear late cousin of mine recommended this company and I have been happy with the service.

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We are very pleased with the work done by Twintech. They were very professional from start to finish. Dave came to our home and gave us a very competitive quote for new high efficiency furnace and air conditioner. The installers were very courteous and professional. We would highly recommend them.

by W1n5t0n1987! on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Great experience getting an old furnace replaced.
Sales Guy (Dave) was great - honest, responsive, and friendly.
The work itself was done quickly and we are very happy with the outcome, thank you! We recommend TwinTech!

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

This review is late coming so my apologies to the amazing Twin Tech team! I contacted Dave at Twin Tech for a quote this past Feb (as I was collecting a few) and his recommendation was excellent. From the first meeting with Dave to the team installing the new furnace, not once did i feel uncomfortable . The team were extremely professional yet personable and clean and tidy. Decent companies still exist!
The new furnace just purrs and its just amazing the difference it has made!
(PS my sibling ended up getting a furnace from them as well)

by Private User on Twintech Heating and Cooling

The service was Twintech was excellent.
Dave our salesperson was easy to talk to and was professional. The unit recommended meets our needs and budget.
Greg and his team arrived on time for the installation and even got rid of the garbage the contractors left in our furnace.
Would definitely recommend Twintech.

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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Robert Rogers on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very pleased with the professional service that TwinTech Heating and Cooling provided in replacing my furnace. I got several quotes from different service providers. Their price was excellent and they explained the features very well. We are very glad we went with TwinTech and highly recommend their services.

by Robert Mizuno on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We were new homeowners in need of a second opinion. TwinTech Heating & Cooling were Amazing and professional. Very knowledgeable and great service all around. Recommend to anyone looking for honest and reliable services. Treated with respect and care. Thank you Greg, Mitch and Bob!

by Ruth on Twintech Heating and Cooling

TwinTech is an excellent and honest company! I called them for a second opinion after being told by another company that I needed to replace my furnace. Turns out this was not the case at all! I did not need a new furnace. TwinTech did not push to make an unnecessary sale and saved me from a huge expense. Bob and Mitch were extremely professional and above all honest! I definitely recommend TwinTech!

by Anna Chin on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Amazing experience with TwinTech Heating & Cooling! Their team was professional, knowledgeable, and efficient from start to finish. They installed my new furnace quickly and left everything spotless. The technicians took the time to explain everything and made sure I was comfortable with the system before they left. Great customer service and fair pricing. I highly recommend them for anyone needing HVAC services!

by Connor Agnew on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Great experience all around. Bob was sharp and easy to talk to, and Greg handled the installation perfectly. Would hire them again in a heartbeat.

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