Installing a gas furnace instead of electric HVAC equipment is more economical. A gas furnace uses natural gas, which lowers your overall monthly energy expenses. However, you’ll still need electricity to run your modern gas furnace because of the gas furnace’s electronic ignition. There are two types of electronic ignition systems; intermittent furnace pilots and hot surface igniters. Gas furnaces initially used pilot lights for gas burners ignition. However, they consumed extra power to stay lit, reducing the gas furnace efficiency constantly. This drawback inspired the new electric ignition system, requiring a slight electricity amount to function efficiently. The intermittent furnace pilots use a pilot light that only comes on when needed, initiated by an electric spark. When your HVAC system thermostat calls for heat, a high voltage power slows through your igniter, causing it to spark and ignite the pilot, which supplies adequate heat to turn the burners on. The pilot light will then shut off when your burners do. On the other hand, hot surface igniters require absolutely no pilot light as the ignition creates enough heat to ignite your burners. This system is more common and energy-efficient. They are built from silicon carbide or silicon nitride and operate like light bulbs. Essentially, current passes through them and heat their surface to red hot. A furnace sensor then detects the heat and opens the gas valve, sending natural gas to your burners. The heat coming from the gas furnace igniter triggers the gas jets into action. These igniters are dependable and durable. However, they need proper maintenance and replacement during the gas furnace’s lifespan when they wear and tear. If you experience major issues with your gas igniter, you need to contact an HVAC technician for help.
Air conditioning maintenance