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How does your gas furnace turn on to start heating your home? For decades, you would have answered “a pilot light.” But modern furnaces don’t use standing pilot lights anymore. They’ve been replaced with electronic ignition systems that are more reliable and consume less energy.
But just because the ignition for your furnace is reliable doesn’t mean it won’t fail at some point during the furnace’s service life and require that you call our Peaden Pros for heating repair in Baldwin County, AL. Below, we’re going to look at some of the ways you can tell it’s time to replace your furnace’s electronic ignition system.
1. Delayed Ignition or No Ignition at All
If your furnace is hesitating to ignite or fails to light entirely, it’s often due to a problem in the ignition system. Delayed ignition happens when gas accumulates in the furnace before it ignites, resulting in a minor “boom” sound when it finally lights up. Over time, this can damage parts of your furnace, and it’s a sign that the ignition system isn’t functioning correctly.
In some cases, the igniter may need cleaning or repair, but if the problem persists, we recommend a replacement.
2. Furnace Has Difficulty Starting
If your furnace struggles to start, it could indicate that the ignition system is wearing out. A weak or failing ignition system often struggles to generate the spark or heat necessary to ignite the burners.
Look for repeated failed attempts to start the furnace, and when the furnace turns on but only after multiple tries.
3. Visible Damage or Corrosion on the Ignition System
The ignition system can accumulate dirt, dust, and corrosion over time, which hinders its ability to ignite the gas efficiently. If you inspect the furnace and notice that the ignition system has visible signs of wear, corrosion, or cracking, this could indicate it’s nearing the end of its lifespan. Visible damage usually requires a replacement, as it affects the efficiency and safety of the ignition process.
4. Increasing Utility Bills
A failing ignition system can prevent your furnace from running efficiently, which may result in higher energy costs. If you’ve noticed a steady increase in your heating bills without any change in usage, your furnace may be working harder than it should due to ignition issues.
5. Age of the Furnace Ignition System
If your furnace is over 10–15 years old and starting to experience issues, it may be time to consider replacing not just the ignition system but the entire furnace. Older furnaces have outdated ignition technology that doesn’t run as efficiently as modern systems. Replacing the furnace can give you the benefits of the latest ignition systems, improved energy efficiency, and greater reliability.
What to Do If You Suspect an Ignition Problem
If you notice any of these warning signs, it’s a good idea to have a professional HVAC technician inspect your furnace. Our Peaden Pros can assess whether the issue is in the ignition system or another part and then recommend the best course of action. Sometimes, a simple repair or cleaning can extend the life of the ignition, but in many cases, a replacement is the safest, simplest choice.
Contact Peaden today for an inspection, repair, or replacement. We’re here to help keep your home warm and comfortable all winter long.