How do I know if my furnace needs a new ignitor?

A failing furnace ignitor typically shows clear warning signs before it completely fails. The most common symptoms include the furnace not starting consistently, clicking sounds without ignition, or the system cycling on and off repeatedly without producing heat.

The telltale signs of ignitor problems include hearing your furnace attempt to start (you'll hear the blower or clicking sounds) but no heat actually comes out of the vents. You might notice the furnace tries to light multiple times before giving up, or it starts but shuts down after a few minutes. Some homeowners report seeing a faint glow from the ignitor that appears dimmer than usual, or no glow at all when the furnace attempts to start.

In Ottawa's climate, ignitor issues often surface during the first cold snap when your furnace hasn't run for months. Modern hot surface ignitors typically last 3-7 years, and they're more prone to failure after sitting idle through summer. If your furnace is over 5 years old and showing these symptoms, the ignitor is often the culprit.

Safety is critical with ignitor problems - never attempt to bypass or repair the ignitor yourself. A faulty ignitor can cause dangerous gas buildup or carbon monoxide issues. If you suspect ignitor failure, turn off your furnace and call a licensed HVAC technician immediately. The repair typically costs $200-400 in Ottawa, including the service call and parts.

If your furnace isn't starting reliably, don't wait for complete failure - especially during Ottawa's harsh winters. A quick diagnostic by a TSSA-licensed technician can confirm if it's the ignitor or another component, preventing you from being left without heat when you need it most.

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