Pilot Assemblies and Ignition systems for furnaces Canada

Gas furnaces have an electronic igniter that lights the gas so your furnace can heat the home. Newer furnaces do not use a pilot-light system and therefore cannot be ignited by hand. Hot surface igniters (HSI) glow when ignited, the red-hot surface is used to provide ignition. Such igniters are often made of silicon carbide or silicon nitride. Silicon nitride igniters are known as “upgraded” igniters, as they are much more durable and less fragile than carbide igniters. Carbide igniters are extremely fragile and should be used with care.  It is better and safer to handle the igniter by the ceramic holder. Avoid touching these carbide tips, as it may shorten its lifespan, much like halogen bulbs.