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Troubleshooting a Gas Furnace - Furnace Repair

By Bob Formisano, About.com

8 of 10

PROBLEM: Electronic Ignition Furnace Problems

Hot Surface Igniter

Electronic Hot Surface Igniter

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Electronic Ignition Furnace Problems
Newer furnaces do not rely on a standing pilot to ignite the gas burners. Electronic ignition occurs typically in one of two ways:

  • Intermittent Pilot, or
  • Hot Surface Ignition

    The intermittent pilot system uses an electronically controlled high voltage electrical spark to ignite the gas pilot and then subsequently the main burners, when the thermostat calls for heat.

    The hot surface ignition system uses an electronically controlled resistance heating element not unlike a light bulb filament (and shown in the photo above), to ignite the gas burner.

    See the Tutorial Overview and Repair of the Electronic Ignition Furnace for troubleshooting repair tips for electronic ignition furnaces.

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