Hot Surface Igniters

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How to Choose the Right Furnace Igniter

The hot surface igniter is the component that lights the gas in your furnace every heating cycle. When the thermostat calls for heat, the control board sends voltage to the igniter, which glows red-hot within seconds to ignite the gas flowing from the burners. Igniters are fragile ceramic components that crack from thermal stress over time, making them one of the most common furnace repairs.

Silicon Nitride vs Silicon Carbide

Silicon carbide igniters are the original technology found in older furnaces. They are flat, rectangular, and relatively fragile. Silicon nitride igniters are the modern upgrade, offering faster heat-up times, greater durability, and resistance to cracking. Silicon nitride igniters can often replace silicon carbide units when the voltage and mounting style match. Most universal igniters at National HVAC Parts are silicon nitride for maximum reliability.

Igniter Shapes and Styles

Flat igniters are the most common style, used in the majority of residential furnaces from Carrier, Bryant, Payne, and ICP. Round igniters feature a spiral or fork-shaped element and are found in some Rheem, Ruud, and Trane models. Mini igniters are compact versions used in tight burner assemblies. Always match the shape and mounting bracket to your existing igniter for a proper fit.

OEM vs Universal Igniters

OEM igniters carry the original manufacturer part number and are guaranteed to fit your specific furnace model. Universal igniters are designed to replace hundreds of OEM part numbers across multiple brands. A single universal silicon nitride igniter can often replace 150 or more OEM numbers. Universal igniters from National HVAC Parts include all necessary mounting hardware and wiring connectors.

Signs Your Igniter Needs Replacement

The most common symptom is the furnace not lighting. You may hear the inducer motor and blower running, but no flame appears. Other signs include visible cracks in the ceramic element, the igniter glowing dimly or unevenly, the furnace locking out after multiple failed ignition attempts, or intermittent heating where the furnace sometimes lights and sometimes does not.

Finding Your Replacement

Look for the existing igniter part number printed on the ceramic body or check your furnace manual. Use our Look Up by Model Number tool above to find the exact OEM replacement, or use Shop by Specs to browse by material type and shape. Every order placed before 3 PM CST ships same day from National HVAC Parts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I replace a silicon carbide igniter with silicon nitride?

In most cases, yes. Silicon nitride igniters are a direct upgrade from silicon carbide as long as the voltage rating (typically 120V), mounting style, and physical dimensions match. Silicon nitride heats faster, lasts longer, and is more resistant to cracking. Check that the replacement igniter includes the correct mounting bracket for your furnace.

How long do furnace igniters last?

Silicon carbide igniters typically last 3-5 years, while silicon nitride igniters can last 7-10 years or more. Lifespan depends on how many heating cycles the furnace runs per season. Short-cycling, voltage surges, and physical handling during maintenance can shorten igniter life.

Why does my furnace igniter keep breaking?

Repeated igniter failure usually points to an underlying issue. Common causes include dirty burners causing delayed ignition, voltage problems from the control board, oil from fingerprints creating hot spots on the ceramic, or the igniter being positioned too close to the burner flame. Always handle a new igniter with gloves or a cloth to avoid transferring skin oils.

How do I test a furnace igniter?

Visually inspect the element for cracks. Even hairline cracks will cause failure. You can also test resistance with a multimeter. A good silicon carbide igniter reads 40-90 ohms, while silicon nitride reads 10-20 ohms. An open reading (infinite ohms) confirms the igniter has failed. Never test an igniter by applying power outside the furnace.

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