Hot Surface Igniter Definition What is a hot surface igniter?
Unlike older model gas furnaces that used a standing pilot light to ignite the burners on the furnace, many of today’s models use an electronic ignition system. This includes a Hot Surface Igniter, sometimes referred to as a glow plug or glow stick. When there is a call for heat, the igniter receives electrical current in order to heat its surface and ignite the burners in the furnace. Hot surface igniters are fairly fragile and can be damaged during transit or installation. Cracks are not necessarily visible. After installation, the glow pattern should be checked by your local independent dealer for inconsistencies, and replaced if necessary. Cracks will not necessarily prevent the igniter from working, but will shorten its life. It is important that the correct original equipment manufacturer’s igniter be used when replacing an igniter. There are many igniters on the market. However, many do not have the correct voltage or warm-up time as the original design.
