Your furnace is equipped with an ignition system that starts up your furnace when it’s time to heat your home. The ignition system uses electricity to light a gas pilot or ignite an electric spark to get the furnace running. If your furnace isn’t igniting or is taking an unusually long time to start, there are several potential causes.
Dirty Flame Sensor
Flame sensors detect the presence of a flame in your furnace’s burner and turn off the gas flow if no flame is present. Over time, this sensor can get dirty and start to malfunction. As a result, the furnace won’t light up or will take longer than normal to ignite. Cleaning the flame sensor can often fix this issue right away.
Faulty Ignition System
If your flame sensor is clean and working properly, the issue may be with your furnace’s ignition system. This could include a malfunctioning spark igniter or a faulty pilot light. It’s generally best to hire an HVAC technician for this type of repair, as it requires dealing with complex electrical components.
Gas Pressure Issues
Your furnace also needs the right amount of gas pressure to ignite properly. If the gas pressure is too high or too low, the furnace may struggle to light. Low gas pressure can be caused by a bad regulator or an issue with your home’s gas line. If you suspect this is the problem, contact your local gas utility company or a qualified HVAC contractor to help.
Low Air Flow
If your furnace’s airflow is insufficient, your burner may have a hard time igniting. It’s worth making sure there is no blockage in your air filter or ductwork, and that all registers are open. If your airflow is still low after checking these components, contact an HVAC expert to investigate further. This could be caused by an issue with the blower motor or ductwork.
Delayed furnace ignition can be a frustrating and potentially dangerous problem, but with the right knowledge and assistance, you can get your furnace up and running again quickly. If you’re unsure about any of the above solutions, don’t hesitate to call a qualified HVAC technician like Weaver Family Heating and Air in Kokomo, IN to inspect and repair your furnace. We can help with all of your AC and furnace needs while providing the best solutions to keep you comfortable year-round. Contact Weaver Family Heating and Air today to learn more!
