Yes, you can often reset a furnace ignitor through a straightforward process, typically by cycling its power.
How to Reset Your Furnace Ignitor
If your furnace isn't lighting, a quick reset of the ignitor might resolve the issue. This process involves safely turning off the furnace's power, accessing the ignitor, cycling its setting, and then restoring power.
Follow these steps carefully:
- Turn Off Power: Before doing anything, always ensure the furnace is completely powered off. Locate the main power switch for your furnace (often near the furnace unit itself) and switch it to the "off" position. For added safety, you can also turn off the corresponding circuit breaker at your electrical panel.
- Access the Ignitor: Once the power is confirmed off, you will need to open or remove the burner door on your furnace. This will reveal the ignitor and other internal components.
- Cycle the Ignitor:
- Locate the ignitor (it's usually a small, rod-like component).
- Turn the ignitor's setting or switch to the “off” position.
- Leave the ignitor in the "off" position for a minimum of 5 minutes. This waiting period allows any residual power to dissipate and resets the component.
- After the 5-minute waiting period, turn the ignitor back to the “on” position.
- Replace Burner Door: Securely replace the burner door on the furnace.
- Restore Power and Restart Furnace: Turn the main power switch for your furnace back to the "on" position (and flip the circuit breaker back on if you turned it off). Your furnace should now be ready to restart and attempt to ignite.
If the furnace ignitor continues to malfunction after performing a reset, it may indicate a deeper issue with the ignitor itself or other furnace components, such as the flame sensor, gas valve, or control board. In such cases, professional HVAC assistance is recommended.
