Furnace Hot Surface Ignitor: How It Works and Why It's Important

Furnace Hot Surface Ignitor: How It Works and Why It's Important

When it comes to keeping your home warm and comfortable during the colder months, your furnace is a critical piece of equipment. And one of the key components of your furnace is the hot surface ignitor. In this blog post, we'll take a closer look at what a hot surface ignitor is, how it works, and why it's so essential to the proper functioning of your furnace.

What is a Furnace Hot Surface Ignitor?

A hot surface ignitor is a device that's used to ignite the gas in your furnace's burner. Unlike older furnaces that used a pilot light to ignite the gas, modern furnaces use a hot surface ignitor. When your thermostat calls for heat, the ignitor turns on and heats up to a high temperature. This, in turn, causes the gas in the burner to ignite and start heating your home.

How Does a Hot Surface Ignitor Work?

A hot surface ignitor is made of silicon carbide or another durable material and is wired to the furnace's control board. When your thermostat signals that your home needs heat, the control board sends power to the ignitor. The ignitor heats up to a high temperature - usually between 1800 and 2500 degrees Fahrenheit - and glows red. This red-hot glow is what ignites the gas in the furnace's burner.

Why is the Hot Surface Ignitor So Important?

The hot surface ignitor plays a crucial role in the operation of your furnace. Without an ignitor, your furnace won't be able to heat your home. And if your ignitor is dirty or damaged, it won't work properly, potentially leading to a dangerous situation in your home. That's why it's essential to have your furnace inspected and maintained regularly to ensure that your ignitor is in good working order.

In addition to keeping you warm and comfortable, a properly functioning hot surface ignitor can also help you save money on your energy bills. Because ignitors use less energy than older pilot light systems, you'll enjoy more efficient heating and lower monthly energy costs.

In Conclusion

The hot surface ignitor is a critical component of your furnace, and it's essential to keep it in good working order. Regular maintenance and inspections can help ensure that your ignitor is functioning correctly, helping to keep you and your family comfortable and safe all winter long. So if you haven't had your furnace inspected recently, now is the time to schedule an appointment with your HVAC technician.