Even though winters in Litchfield Park, AZ, are usually mild, temperatures can still dip enough that you’ll need your furnace to stay comfortable. If your heating system kicks on but doesn’t blow warm air, there’s a good chance the ignitor is to blame. Here’s a quick look at how furnace ignitors work, the signs they’re failing, and why it’s smart to call in an expert when things go wrong.
How a Furnace Ignitor Works
The ignitor in your furnace is what sparks the gas that creates heat. Instead of the old-school pilot light, most modern furnaces use electronic ignitors, which are safer and more energy-efficient.
When your thermostat signals that it’s time to heat, the ignitor gets hot and lights the gas burners. If the ignitor doesn’t do its job, your furnace won’t be able to produce heat, and your home stays cold.
Common Signs of a Faulty Furnace Ignitor
One of the clearest signs something’s wrong is when the furnace runs, but no warm air comes out. You might also notice clicking sounds as the system keeps trying and failing to ignite.
Other red flags include short cycling (the furnace starts up but shuts off quickly) and blinking error codes on the control board. These symptoms often point to an ignition problem, not a thermostat glitch.
What Causes Furnace Ignitor Failure
Ignitors wear out over time, especially if your system’s been working hard for years. Even in warmer areas like Arizona, repeated heating cycles can take a toll.
Power surges, dust buildup, and poor airflow can also shorten the life of an ignitor. Skipping regular maintenance only adds more strain, making a breakdown more likely.
Why You Should Leave Ignitor Repairs to the Experts
Because ignitors deal with both electricity and gas, it’s important to have a qualified technician take a look. Trying to fix it yourself without the right tools or training can be risky and might even cause more damage.
An expert will pinpoint whether the ignitor is really the issue or if something else is keeping the system from firing up. Getting it fixed properly not only restores your heat but also protects the rest of your system.
FAQ: Furnace Ignitor Issues
How long does a furnace ignitor usually last?
Typically, several years. However, how long it lasts depends on how often your system runs, electrical conditions, and how well it’s maintained.
Can an ignitor fail suddenly?
Absolutely. While some ignitors wear out gradually, others can stop working out of the blue, especially after a power surge.
Is it okay to keep resetting my furnace if it won’t ignite?
Not really. Constantly resetting it can strain the system and might point to a bigger safety concern.
Are ignitor issues common in warm places like Arizona?
Yes. Even in places like Litchfield Park, ignitors still go through intense heat cycles, so problems can definitely pop up.
Quick Recap
If your furnace isn’t heating, a bad ignitor could be the cause. Signs include failed startups, rapid on-off cycling, and error codes. The safest bet? Call a professional to diagnose and fix the issue right the first time.
When to Call J & M Cooling & Heating, LLC
If your furnace isn’t keeping up with the colder temps in Litchfield Park, AZ, it’s time to call in the experts. The team at J & M Cooling & Heating, LLC offers detailed diagnostics and reliable repairs to get your heat back fast. Give us a call today to schedule your furnace repair or learn more about our services.