How long does the igniter stay on when the burner is on?
The igniter will remain on for a specific amount of time (seconds) depending on the specific ignition module being used. This “on” time or trial for ignition time can vary, depending on the specific ignition module being used. When main burner ignition occurs, the flame is sensed by the igniter (local sense) or by a remote sensor (remote sense).
What should the temperature be on a hot surface igniter?
Check for excessive (more than 1,000°F/538°C) temperature at the ceramic insulator on the flame sensor. Excessive temperature can cause a short to ground; move the sensor to a cooler location or shield the insulator. Do not relocate an igniter or combination igniter-sensor. 3.
Can a 17 SEC igniter be used on a 34 sec hot surface?
Note: A 17- or 20-sec igniter can be used on a 34- or 40-sec application, but you could not use a 17- or 20-sec module with a 24- or 40-sec igniter. At the end of the igniter warm-up period, the gas valve main opens.
Is it safe to use a silicon carbide hot surface igniter?
Some service technicians may be surprised to learn that the silicon carbide element of a hot surface igniter (HSI) can be handled without damage. However, it is better and safer to handle the igniter by the ceramic holder.
What causes the flame on a hot surface igniter?
When the voltage is applied to the wires, the element starts to glow because of the resistance the carbide creates from one wire to the next. When it glows long enough, gas is poured over it, and the flame ignites. As mentioned earlier, hot surface ignitors, or HSI’s, are resistance heaters.
Are there any hot surface igniters that last?
Yes, you can get lucky and have one last for twenty years, but it’s few and far between. Different hot surface igniters last longer than others. The trend over the last five to ten years has been to use the more durable silicon nitride igniters. They seem to be less brittle, making them better able to stand the test of time.
What causes a carbide igniter to break down?
Some field experts say that the oils on the hands of technicians will cause the carbide tip to break down earlier than it should. Other experts say it won’t. One thing is for sure, the fewer contaminants that touch the surface of this red-hot igniter, the better.
Why are the igniters on my gas furnace not working?
A lot of those furnaces won’t be lighting up when they’re turned on for the first time this season. The hot surface igniters that start the flame in a gas furnace often fail. It’s almost as common as replacing a capacitor in air conditioning systems all over the city every spring.
