Cleaning Igniter on Gas Furnace

What Tools Are Needed to Clean the Furnace Ignitor?

To clean the furnace ignitor, you will need the following tools:

Tool	Purpose
Headlamp	For better visibility inside the furnace
Socket wrench set	For removing panels and bolts
Multi-tip screwdriver	For various screws and fasteners
Air compressor with spray nozzle attachment or cans of compressed air	For cleaning without touching the ignitor
Medium-fine scuff pads	For gently cleaning the ignitor surface
Vacuum cleaner with a small attachment	For cleaning around the ignitor area
Emery cloth or fine sandpaper	For more stubborn dirt on hot surface ignitors
Soft brush or cloth	For gentle cleaning of the ignitor

No specific brands are recommended, but it is crucial to use tools that fit the specific fasteners and components of your furnace.

The furnace ignitor is typically located near the burners, behind a protective metal panel. Here are the steps to locate it:

Turn off the power: Ensure the furnace is turned off at the main power switch or circuit breaker.
Remove the access panel: Use a wrench or screwdriver to open the access panel. This panel is usually on the side of the furnace.
Locate the ignitor: Once inside, use a headlamp to locate the ignitor. It will be near the gas port or gas valve.

Turn off power and gas:
Ensure the furnace is turned off at the main power switch or circuit breaker and the gas supply is shut off.
Remove the access panel:
Use a socket wrench or screwdriver to open the access panel.
Disconnect the ignitor wires:
Carefully disconnect the push-on wire connector powering the ignitor.
Remove the ignitor:
Undo any bolts or screws holding the ignitor in place, then remove the ignitor. Be sure not to touch the ignitor element as skin oil can cause it to malfunction.
Clean the ignitor:
Use compressed air to blow away any dust or debris. If necessary, gently rub the metal surface of the ignitor with an emery cloth or fine sandpaper to remove stubborn dirt.
Vacuum the area:
Use a vacuum cleaner with a small attachment to clean around the ignitor area.
Reassemble and test:
Replace the ignitor, reconnect the wires, and replace the panel. Turn the power back on and test the furnace to ensure it’s operating correctly.

Turn off power and gas:
Ensure the furnace is turned off at the main power switch or circuit breaker and the gas supply is shut off.
Remove the access panel:
Use a socket wrench or screwdriver to open the access panel.
Disconnect the ignitor wires:
Carefully disconnect the push-on wire connector powering the ignitor.
Remove the ignitor:
Undo any bolts or screws holding the ignitor in place, then remove the ignitor. Be sure not to touch the spark wires as skin oil can cause them to malfunction.
Clean the ignitor:
Use compressed air to blow away any dust or debris. If necessary, gently rub the spark wires with a scuff pad to remove stubborn dirt.
Vacuum the area:
Use a vacuum cleaner with a small attachment to clean around the ignitor area.
Reassemble and test:
Replace the ignitor, reconnect the wires, and replace the panel. Turn the power back on and test the furnace to ensure it’s operating correctly.

Avoid touching the ignitor element: Skin oil can damage the ignitor.
Use compressed air carefully: Avoid pushing debris further into the furnace.
Ensure power and gas are off: Before starting any cleaning process.