As the temperatures drop, the idea of no heat is a chilling thought. A simple furnace malfunction is one thing—a furnace not igniting burners is another. To help you maintain a safe living space throughout the cold months, we have created an outline of the most common reasons a furnace may stop igniting and ways to respond to the issue.
Top Causes of Furnace Ignition Issues
There are a variety of reasons as to why a furnace can exhibit ignition issues. Considering furnaces contain a series of internal components and are connected to other home systems, ignition issues can stem from numerous directions.
Before we go in-depth into each cause, it is important to call an emergency plumber if you smell gas in your house.
Now, here are the top causes of furnace ignition issues:
1. Gas Line Issues
Furnace not igniting burners? One of the most common reasons behind this issue is a blocked or clogged gas line. When the gas line is blocked or clogged, the furnace is unable to draw the natural gas needed to start and provide heating. The best solution for this problem is resorting to professional help. A certified heating expert can determine if any obstructions are causing the issue.
2. Defective Thermostat
Another potential culprit might not even be the furnace, but the thermostat. A faulty thermostat can have issues communicating with the furnace, leading to incorrect heating or no heat at all. Have a technician inspect the thermostat and, if it’s indeed defective, replace it to restore heating.
3. Clogged Furnace Filter
A dirty and clogged air filter can lead to several furnace problems, including ignition. Over time, the air filter becomes clogged due to the buildup of dirt and dust. The best method to prevent this is by changing the filter around every 90 days. This way, the furnace can work efficiently and supply sufficient heating.
4. Malfunctioning Igniter or Pilot Light
Has your furnace suddenly stopped igniting? It could be a failed igniter or the pilot light has gone out. You’ll need to determine which one isn’t working. If you hear a clicking noise but the furnace burners are not lighting, the problem most likely is related to the igniter. If the furnace runs for a couple of minutes and then shuts off, the pilot light may need replacement. Either way, this issue calls for professional assistance.
Read More: Top Reasons Your Furnace is Making Rattling Noises
5. Dirty Gas Burners
Gas burners collect dirt and debris over time, limiting even burning at the proper height. This causes the thermostat to adjust to a lower temperature, forcing the heating system to work harder and even create a higher amount of carbon monoxide in the system.
If your furnace is not igniting or is heating your house inefficiently, the good news is that dirty gas burners are relatively easy to clean by a professional. A professional can blow compressed air through each one and wipe the outside with a brush or rag. In addition, you can also increase the amount of dusting you do to better keep dirt out of the furnace.
6. Damaged Flame Sensor
A furnace having difficulty staying lit could be the result of a damaged flame sensor. The flame sensor is a key component that is responsible for detecting the presence of the flame. A faulty flame sensor can lead to overheating and burnt parts. You will need professional attention to fix this issue but you can start by cleaning the air vents for your furnace and unplugging the unit.
7. Draft
A strong draft in your basement or attic can also prevent the pilot light from lighting. If high winds are present, the draft can potentially become more problematic. The pilot may also fail to light if your furnace has a broken or malfunctioning draft motor. Draft motors rely on drawing air from a chimney or vent and if there is a blockage preventing incoming air, the igniter won’t light and you might hear a faint humming.
Enlist the help from a heating expert if your furnace is not igniting. A professional will be able to accurately diagnose the issue and provide you with the necessary solution.
8. Loose or Damaged Electrical Components
For operation, furnaces depend on multiple electrical connections and components. A furnace not igniting the burners could be related to loose or damaged electrical components and connections. A licensed technician can inspect your unit for any loose connections or signs of damage. If there is damage, a professional will safely tighten or fix the electrical connections.
9. Tripped Circuit Breaker
Your furnace will fail to start if there is no power being relayed to it, making a tripped circuit breaker another possibility. Locate your circuit breaker and see if it’s been tripped. If it has, reset it and see if the furnace starts again.
10. High-Limit Switch Activation
The furnace will fail to turn on if its high-limit switch is activated—the feature that will turn off the furnace if it overheats. The high-limit switch is commonly activated when there is restricted airflow. Check the vents and ductwork for obstructions.
Read More: Helpful Tips for Cleaning the Sump Pump in Your Basement
11. Control Board Problems
Another electrical-based issue that can prevent the furnace from igniting is the control board. This board controls various functions and when its components experience issues, ignition can fail to start. Since this is an electrical issue, turn to the help of a professional.
12. Clogged Exhaust Vents
Furnaces come with exhaust vents to expel harmful gases and when the vent is blocked, ignition can fail to start. A certified professional can inspect the vent for obstructions like birds nests, debris, or ice and clear them.
5-Star Furnace Repair and Replacement Services
If there are blinking lights on your furnace or it is not lighting, contact AccuTemp for furnace repair services in New Orleans and other surrounding areas. Our specialists provide 5-star heating services for local homeowners.
Finding your furnace not igniting its burners can cause quite the panic when temperatures are at their lowest. If this is a problem for your home in New Orleans or Baton Rouge, Louisiana, turn to the team of HVAC contractors at AccuTemp. Contact us today at (225) 244-8826 for furnace repair and replacement services you can rely on to provide the heating your home needs.
Does your home utilize a different type of system for heating? Fortunately, our team also provides reputable heat pump installation and geothermal HVAC system repair services for houses in your local area. The skilled team of experts at AccuTemp can help with the services you may need.
