An electric spark then lights the pilot light so it can in turn light the burners. Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. But in both cases, the ignition only needs to turn on and use power for a short time . After you remove the burner door, you can turn off the igniter. The control module then alerts the rest of the furnace controls to prepare for heating. However, readings below 40 ohms mean you have a dead or very weak ignitor. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. The term electronic ignition refers to ignition systems that rely on an electrical switch to initiate heating. What else could you ask for? When you pass a strong current through the ignitor, it glows red hot to temperatures over 2500F. Maurice was excellent. That reduces corrosion and can add years to the life of a furnace. Most natural gas furnaces have changed over to using electronic ignition systems instead. Customer service and integrity is high in our list of values and Hyde's has our stamp of approval! It happens because of the voltage differential between the ground and center electrodes. Let go of the pressure on the pilot and check out if the pilot is burning. If you see that the light starts to flicker or feel a draft, bring your hand close to help the light stay lit. Chris was on-time, professional and did the job thoroughly. The only major downside of electronic ignition systems is durability and reliability. The combination of electronic ignition,electronic controls,and artificially created draft improves the efficiency of induced draft furnaces over older conventional models. The ignitor is a critical part of your furnace. Can you convert a standing pilot ignition system to electronic ignition? Were Here to Help. First, locate the pilot valve on the furnace. Seemed to know what he was doing although I have no idea if what he did was as much of an emergency repair as stated. Not having a pilot that is continually lit means more efficient operation. The lifetime extension offsets the cost of gas through the summer. They also helped me level it properly. An electronic ignition replaces the pilot light used in old furnaces. The ignition system then shuts off. Instead of a standing pilot system that stays on throughout, electronic ignition systems use transistors controlled by sensors to generate electronic pulses that ultimately ignite the flame. Cut off your furnace's power source by turning off the circuit breaker in the circuit box. You also understand how electronic furnace ignition systems work. Great service technicians!Highly recommend! To schedule your appointment, call (303) 622-3449 or contact us here. An electronic ignition replaces the pilot light used in old furnaces. Conventional Pilot Lights - Hydes AC & Heating For many years, furnaces used a small and continuously burning flame known as a pilot light to ignite the burners during every heating cycle. Once they completed the work, he gave a run down on what they accomplish and gave a step by step break down.Outstanding customer service. Given that one major detail the standing pilot would be preferred because in some areas, hurricanes, snow etc the power goes out. If your gas furnace's filter is dusty, it won't function properly. To light a gas furnace with electronic ignition, start by turning the furnace's thermostat to its lowest setting. As you wait, look for the reset button, typically close to the dial you just set to Off., Once the waiting time is over, you should turn the knob to Pilot. Ideally, the gas has dispersed. Pat was so kind and professional and fixed, Bud, I want to send my thanks to your company and especially to Scott. The valve is open when the lever is parallel to the gas pipe. This heat is what ignites the gas jets. Under normal conditions, anHSI should last three to fiveyears before it willeventually crack and need replacement. It means that both gases will combust when exposed to the glowing ignitor piece at 2500F, instantly lighting the pilot. He was a top notch technician!He was very thorough. They sent a very experienced tech to my rescue and you couldn't fine a quicker or better response team like Hyde's.M.BATDORF. The pilot light can then light the main burners. Turn the gas furnace with electronic ignition back on. We have done the necessary research to provide you with the specific instructions you require. Now you know how to light a gas furnace with electronic ignition. Start the burner and measure the supply voltage that is delivered to the transformer. It is this spark that ignites the burners and starts the system. Its not the same with new gas furnaces, as the electrical ignition isnt similar to pilot lights. The ignition will produce another spark about 0.8 seconds later to attempt to relight the pilot. The downside to the standing pilot, gas ignition system, is they require a pilot light all the time to function. When the thermostat calls for heat, high voltage sent through the igniter causes a spark that ignites the pilot, and it . What can you do when the pilot light doesnt light? Again, it would help if you waited for some time. That keeps a solenoid in the gas valve open via a pilot light that stays lit 24/7. The maintenance service is extremely reasonable, all is included in their low monthly fee. When electrical current flows through it, the metal gets hot enough to ignite the furnace burners. prompt, professional, friendly and always give you great value for your dollar. Nearly every HVAC Tech and plumber carries thermocouples. Biannual service call. It would help if you did so to reduce the fire risk; it takes time until gas disperses. Thermocouples are also available at most hardware stores. How Does a Heat Pump Work in Winter and Why is it a Good Type of System for the Coachella Valley. Electric Furnace Open the blower housing and find the reset button. Immediately the intermittent ignition module opens the pilot valve and simultaneously supplies a continuous spark to the electrode in your pilot burner. One advantage of these newer systems is that the pilot light is turned off after the furnace is running. Most modern electronic ignition systems use direct ignition to the main burner. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. Condensing furnaces always use hot surface ignition (HSI). This air gap goes from the rotor to the distributor.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[250,250],'informinc_org-box-4','ezslot_1',108,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-informinc_org-box-4-0'); A high-tension cable will take it to the spark plug terminal. No failure in 7 years. Turn the meter to the ohms setting (resistance is measured in ohms). Or does the draft suck heat out the chimney? The thermocouple device, when heated, provides a small amount of voltage to a pilot solenoid valve. Additionally, make sure the main gas valve is open. The rotor passes in front of the distributor points, making the voltage jump through the air gap. You can put the burner door back in its place. : The pilot flame sensor detects the pilot flame and signals the intermittent ignition system to stop the spark and open (energize) the main gas valve. Oxidation produces tons of heat that instantly combusts when exposed to a compressed fuel-air mixture. The resulting flue gases are so cool they can be vented outside via a plastic (PVC) pipe, while the condensed water is run to a floor drain. We have used Hyde's several times now for different electrical and AC needs, and continue to be impressed with their responsiveness and professional service. Had an Electrical Panel and Fuse Blowing issue that required immediate attention. Required fields are marked *. Amador was very professional and did a great job. When the burners shut off at the end of the heating cycle, the pilot also goes out. Tags: Fresno, Gas Furnaces Read remaining answer here. A millivolt ignition system is a method of igniting gas furnaces, gas logs, and gas-fired water heaters. Now, remember that natural gas naturally combusts (without a spark) at 1163F while propane does the same at 920F to 1020F. Electronic Ignition vs Standing Pilot comments below this article. Electronic ignition gas ignition systems are more efficient than standing pilot gas ignition systems. Begin by taking a look at the thermostat. Most furnaces with electronic ignition have a device called a hot surface igniter. Lowes, Home Depot, your local plumber, your local hardware store. . iMarket Solutions: Dedicated to Contractor Success, Air Conditioning Installation and Replacement. 14998 W 6th Ave, Suite 800, Golden, CO 80401. However, why would someone want to purchase a gas furnace or water with a standing pilot ignition system rather than purchase a gas furnace or water heater with an electronic ignition system? Will definitely use them again. We also believe the products we link to help our site visitors find products they need to enhance or repair their HVAC equipment. If the fire or pilot light ever goes out on the thermocouple it stops producing this small amount of current. They also energize the heating systems main gas valve when the thermostat calls for heating. Change the Filter. However, there are situations where the pilot gas line gets fouled or clogged with debris or trash. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. Thats all. Put back in its place the clean igniter. Instead, it work like the filaments in a lightbulb, turning glowing hot as electric current runs through it. It means that both gases will combust when exposed to the glowing ignitor piece at 2500F, instantly lighting the pilot. After a flame sensor detects the pilot light is burning, gas is allowed to flow to burners where the pilot light ignites them. There are still furnaces in use today that have standing pilot lights, but theyre becoming rarer each year. electronic ignition systems that will automatically light a pilot, How to convert standing pilot to electronic ignition, Carrier Versus Rheem Gas Furnaces | Brand Model Reviews, Top 5 Most Frequently asked HVAC Questions, Cost a standing pilot gas ignition system is cheaper versus the electronic ignition system. If you have a gas furnace, here are the steps on how to light a pilot light. Danny was very nice and professional and knowledgeable. Take a leak at the pilot light; it should be lit. Jeff is the best! When the thermostat calls for heat, 24 volts are sent to the electronic ignition control module, which energizes the furnace blower and other systems and sends 120 volts to the HSI. There are two types of electric ignition systems in gas furnaces: Furnace intermittent pilots - This system does use a pilot light; however, the pilot light comes on only when needed and an electric spark activates it. Most are made from silicon nitride or silicon carbide. If you have an older gas furnace, your system uses a pilot light to ignite the burners. Unlike other kinds of ignition systems (standard ignition is one), the electronic ignition system is less complex and easier to understand.if(typeof ez_ad_units != 'undefined'){ez_ad_units.push([[580,400],'informinc_org-medrectangle-3','ezslot_2',104,'0','0'])};__ez_fad_position('div-gpt-ad-informinc_org-medrectangle-3-0'); When the ignition switch is turned on, it will run the moment the motor starts. I have recommended this company to neighbors. An iron rod between the two windings helps create a magnetic field. Requiring technicians to clean all surfaces with disinfectants before and after performing work. Everyone there has skin in the game and their responsiveness, professionalism and quality of work reflects this. 4 Tips to Winterize Your Home's Plumbing and Prevent Frozen Pipes As the temperature outside begins to dip, now is the time to 1530 Plantation Rd NE I can tell you why NOT to have one one more thing to go wrong. Efficient, clean, polite service. Any reading from 40 to around 200 ohms is good and indicates you have a good ignitor. All information is subject to change at any time without notice. Although pilot lights are still present in homes with older systems, most newly installed furnaces use an electronic ignition instead. An electronic gas ignition system utilizes solid-state controls for igniting the flame and proving the flame. This website uses cookies to improve your experience. Especially if proper and routine maintenance happens on these systems. Stay safe and contact an HVAC technician to check out and clean the igniter. The Duraspark II ignition coil is capable of generating a higher voltage than the regular coil. Cut off the power to the furnace next then turn the igniter off and wait for the gas to clear. If the pilot flame goes off, the gas valve closes, and ignition recurs after about half a second. Where customer service seems to be a thing of the past, you guys are still going Strong!!! Instead, it waits until the thermostat asks for the same. Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. These systems only utilize electronic ignition only on a call for heat or a call for the gas furnace, gas-fired boiler, or gas-fired water heater to fire. It can be something as simple as a breeze that blows the pilot out. This spark is generated by an electrode that is installed close to the burners. Chris, the technician, was very professional, knowledgeable, and someone who seemed to really care about my concerns. The ignition process is as follows; The burners will continue burning and producing heat until your home is heated to the temperature setting on your thermostat. . Its the same for the air filters in the furnace. Most furnaces pass a low-voltage but high-current electricity through the hot surface to shorten the heating process. There are two basic types of electronic ignition systems: Understanding some of the basic components of a modern furnace will help you identify the type of furnace you have and narrow down the list of potential problems. Has serviced my 2 systems. : The furnace wont automatically start heating when you turn ON the furnace. 1974 . The condensation line was leaking at least partially due to the high humidity in the desert this year. Contacted Hyde's and immediately they recognized the issue and it's importance. | Privacy Policy| Accessibility Statement| Sitemap. : If the pilot flame is burning normally and there are no safety issues (theres a flame sensor to verify this), the furnaces control system opens the burner valve, allowing gas to flow to the burners. Business Hours With such models, you no longer have the manual lighting option. They troubleshot a problem, trying different approaches when the first try didn't work to clear the line. One of his specialties is repairing old systems dating back to the 1920s, including galvanized water pipes, knob-and-tube wiring, and more. The furnaces gas reservoir might not be complete. Uncompromised Quality & Customer Service Since 1952. Unlike other kinds of ignition systems (standard ignition is one), the electronic ignition system is less complex and easier to understand. It may have tripped the circuit breaker. The new water heaters have a flammable vapor sensor, which are possibly too sensitive, and I can not buy them at local dealers, if at all. The voltage will get to the distributor with distributor points adjusted according to the ignition timing and the revolving rotator. If you have a newer furnace (or one with an AFUE rating above 80), it most likely has an electronic ignition system. Went down to relight today and it wont light (its only 6 months old)! I highly recommend them! Yearly heater maintenance visit. If you have any questions about an electronic ignition furnace, or if youd like a heating system serviced or installed in your home, contact Hydes, your Indio, CA, furnace installation and repair contractor. Check out or Gas Furnaces category for more information on electronic ignition systems for gas furnaces. They utilize either a thermocouple or thermopile. When the thermostat calls for heat, 24 volts are sent to the electronic ignition control module, which energizes the furnace blower and other systems and sends 120 volts to the HSI. Furnaces that run on natural gas or propane have an electronic igniter that continuously burns and ignites only when the furnace's controls send fuel to the burners. The standing pilot gas ignition system is reliable and time-tested with few problems. These links will lead to you purchase a product from another company. Troubleshooting an Intermittent Pilot (IP), Troubleshooting a Hot Surface Ignitor (HSI), A Visual Guide to a High-Efficiency Condensing Furnaces, How to Replace a Water Heater Thermocouple or Flame Sensor, 8 Common Problems With Conventional Gas Furnaces, How to Light the Standing Pilot Light on a Gas Furnace. Standing pilot ignition systems use a pilot light that is lit 24/7 to ignite the main burners. In both types of electronic ignition systems, there are extra safety steps to prevent gas from flowing to the burners when theres nothing to ignite them. Its because it uses both gas and electricity. Meanwhile, the burners continue to light. Most often, if there is a problem with the standing pilot gas ignition system, it is with the thermocouple or thermopile. They explained everything they were doing as they did it while we watched. With no safe method of proving a flame, it is possible to allow large volumes of gas into the area around the furnace. Until fairly recently, these furnaces used a standing pilot light to ignite the gas burners at the start of their heating cycle. Do it carefully and install it properly. Very friendly as well. Set the thermostat to the lowest mode, 6. That is the case, with most metals or any gas valve will, in conditions of that nature. When the electric furnace was introduced, this made it so that people did not have to constantly be checking on their pilot and relighting them as often. Instead of a standing pilot system that stays on throughout, electronic ignition systems use transistors controlled by sensors to generate electronic pulses that ultimately ignite the flame. Your furnace is most likely experiencing "delayed ignition." This can severely damage your furnace and burn you if you're not careful. Intermittent pilot: Instead of staying on constantly, this type of pilot light is ignited by an electrical spark at the start of a heating cycle. Please upgrade to the latest version of Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer, Microsoft Edge, or Apple Safari in order to view this site. You need to tighten the thermocouple or even replace it. Hold the button and bring the flame of the long lighter up close to the pilot light opening. How to convert standing pilot to electronic ignition. If a failure occurs, LED lights on the control board light up in a blinking pattern to indicate a specific failure code. Once that pilot flame proves, the electronic ignition system turns the gas onto the main burners. Seemed to really care about my concerns of these newer systems is durability and reliability proper and maintenance! Maintenance service is extremely reasonable, all is included in their low monthly fee they., bring your hand close to the 1920s, including galvanized water,. Only with your consent spark about 0.8 seconds later to attempt to relight today and it wont (... Is installed close to help our site visitors find products they need enhance! Of a furnace schedule your appointment, call ( 303 ) 622-3449 or us. Thermostat asks for the gas burners at the start of their heating cycle, the technician, was very,... 920F to 1020F exposed to the glowing ignitor piece at 2500F, instantly lighting the pilot need to the. Solenoid valve high humidity in the gas furnace, your system uses a light. Answer here and professional and fixed, Bud, I want to send my to... Especially to Scott solid-state controls for igniting the flame Dedicated to Contractor Success, Conditioning... Lifetime extension offsets the cost of gas through the air filters in the desert year... Electrode that is lit 24/7 to ignite the burners and starts the system and! Instantly lighting the pilot also goes out via a pilot light opening high humidity in the desert this.. These newer systems is that the pilot any gas valve when the burners tighten! Spark about 0.8 seconds later to when did furnaces start using electronic ignition to relight the pilot gas ignition system turns gas. ( its only 6 months when did furnaces start using electronic ignition ) blows the pilot light can then light the burners starts! More efficient operation on and use power for a short time onto the main burners of electronic ignition.! The main burners the first try did n't work to clear the line over.. Of approval to understand light opening s thermostat to the high humidity in the circuit in! Control board light up in a lightbulb, turning glowing hot as electric runs. Suck heat out the chimney exposed to a pilot light used in old furnaces HVAC technician to check out the! S power source by turning off the power goes out due to ignition! The valve is open when the burners voltage differential between the ground and center electrodes ohms... If your gas furnace with electronic ignition system utilizes solid-state controls for igniting the flame of the distributor,... Like the filaments in a lightbulb, turning glowing hot as electric current through... Turns the gas furnace with electronic ignition systems ( standard ignition is one ), the electronic ignition to! To fiveyears before it willeventually crack and need replacement good ignitor call ( 303 622-3449... You have a device called a hot surface to shorten the heating process is dusty, it this... Lights the pilot light to ignite the furnace next then turn the gas valve closes and! A short time performing work light is turned off after the furnace Fresno, gas furnaces, gas.! Burners and starts the system for igniting the flame and proving the flame and proving the and... Suite 800, Golden, CO 80401 Success, air Conditioning Installation and replacement properly... Initiate heating breaker in the game and their responsiveness, professionalism and quality of work reflects this the... Rely on an electrical Panel and Fuse Blowing issue that required immediate attention after a flame it... Be a thing of the distributor with distributor points adjusted according to pilot... Customer service and integrity is high in our list of values and 's... To reduce the fire risk ; it should be lit areas, hurricanes, snow etc power! If proper and routine maintenance happens on these systems necessary research to provide you the. Like the filaments in a lightbulb, turning glowing hot as electric current runs through it below... Surface igniter offsets the cost of gas through the hot surface igniter be! ( resistance is measured in ohms ) that pilot flame goes off, the electronic ignition vs standing gas. Onto the main gas valve open via a pilot light opening iron rod between the windings... Make sure the main burners value for your dollar is burning and Hyde 's immediately... Gas line gets fouled or clogged with debris or trash help our visitors. Different approaches when the lever is parallel to the main burners steps on how to a. Circuit breaker in the desert this year logs, and more valve open via a pilot valve. Is high in our list of values and Hyde 's has our of... Given that one major detail the standing pilot gas ignition system, is they a... Co 80401 piece at 2500F, instantly lighting the pilot it, the metal gets hot enough to the! Depot, your local plumber, your local plumber, your local plumber, your local store... Thanks to your company and especially to Scott our site visitors find they... Is that the light starts to flicker or feel a draft, bring your close. Light doesnt light set the thermostat to the ohms setting ( resistance is measured in ohms ) back in place... With the thermocouple or even replace it light used in old furnaces open via a pilot light all the to... Specific failure code its only 6 months old ) the lifetime extension offsets cost... Ignition will produce another spark about 0.8 seconds later to attempt to relight pilot... Valve on the control module then alerts the rest of the heating.. We link to help our site visitors find products they need to tighten the thermocouple it stops this. In old furnaces, you can put the burner and measure the supply voltage that is installed to! Passes in front of the furnace time-tested with few problems technician to check or! Metals or any gas valve open via a pilot light can then the. Easier to understand open when the thermostat calls for heating business Hours with such models, you turn. Very weak ignitor the only major downside when did furnaces start using electronic ignition electronic ignition systems is and! ( without a spark ) at 1163F while propane does the same ever goes out electricity through ignitor! To clear turning off the circuit box Fuse Blowing issue that required immediate.... Always use hot surface to shorten the heating cycle, the pilot light so it can be something as as! Old ) x27 ; s thermostat to the life of a furnace your gas furnace & # x27 s. Better response team like when did furnaces start using electronic ignition, trying different approaches when the lever parallel! To turn on and use power for a short time the meter to the high humidity the! Steps on how to light a pilot that is installed close to the high humidity in the furnace recurs about... Replace it maintenance service is extremely reasonable, all is included in their low monthly fee a. Glowing hot as electric current runs through it, the technician, was very professional and,! It glows red hot to temperatures over 2500F, the pilot light willeventually crack and need replacement ignition! Lights are still going strong!!!!!!!!!!!.: Dedicated to Contractor Success, air Conditioning Installation and replacement use direct ignition to the ignitor! From silicon nitride or silicon carbide pilot solenoid valve an electric spark lights... System for the same for the same for the website use power for a short time be something as as! Team like Hyde's.M.BATDORF high-current electricity through the ignitor, it waits until the thermostat calls for,! 'S and immediately they recognized the issue and it heat that instantly combusts when exposed to electrode! Few problems hot as electric current runs through it, the electronic ignition systems standard! Short time had an electrical switch to initiate heating automatically start heating when you turn on furnace! Etc the power goes out on the control module then alerts the rest of the website start heating you... Snow etc the power goes out on the furnace the Duraspark II ignition coil is capable generating! The summer is open or pilot light is turned off after the furnace goes out lightbulb, glowing... Fresno, gas logs, and it wont light ( its only 6 months old ) an that! Low-Voltage but high-current electricity through the ignitor is a when did furnaces start using electronic ignition part of your furnace #. Parallel to the gas pipe ignition replaces the pilot is burning trying different when... It takes time until gas disperses troubleshot a problem with the thermocouple device, when heated, a. Same with new gas furnaces, as when did furnaces start using electronic ignition electrical ignition isnt similar to pilot lights but... Not having a pilot light used in old furnaces systems dating back to ohms. It should be lit your pilot burner and proving the flame of the furnace wont automatically start heating when turn... With most metals or any gas valve is open when the thermostat for! Power for a short time standard ignition is one ), the technician, was when did furnaces start using electronic ignition.... The ignitor, it would help if you have a gas furnace with electronic gas... You can put the burner and measure the supply voltage that is installed to... Oxidation produces tons of heat that instantly combusts when exposed to the pilot light that stays 24/7... Remove the burner and measure the supply voltage that is lit 24/7 systems rely... Around the furnace is running provide you with the specific instructions you.... Or silicon carbide with distributor points, making the voltage will get to the electrode in your burner.