Troubleshooting a Pellet Stove Igniter: Tips and Techniques

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Understanding the Igniter
3. Common Problems
4. Troubleshooting Tips
5. Conclusion

I. Introduction

Pellet stoves are a fantastic way to keep your home warm and comfortable during the colder months. They are efficient, easy to use, and provide an eco-friendly source of heat. However, sometimes, they may not function correctly, and troubleshooting them can be a daunting task.

In this article, we will guide you through some troubleshooting tips and techniques for a pellet stove igniter. Whether you have a brand new pellet stove or an older model, these techniques will help you diagnose and fix any issues that may arise.

II. Understanding the Pellet Stove Igniter

Before we dive into the troubleshooting process, it's essential to understand the role of a pellet stove igniter. The igniter element within a pellet stove is specifically engineered to automatically ignite the pellets upon receiving an electric signal from the control board. Depending on the make and model of your pellet stove, the igniter can vary in shape and size, but they all operate on the same principle of converting electricity into heat. 

How do Hot Rod pellet stove igniters work?

Hot Rod pellet stove igniters work by heating up the rod to a high temperature, typically around 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit. When the Hot Rod igniter is turned on, the rod glows red hot, and the heat is transferred to the pellets in the burn pot. Certain igniters make direct contact with the pellets, while others preheat the circulated air that flows into the burn pot. As the pellets ignite, the Hot Rod igniter shuts off, and the fire is self-sustaining.

How long do Hot Rod pellet stove igniters last?

Hot Rod pellet stove igniters are designed to last for several years with proper care and maintenance. However, their lifespan can vary depending on how often you use your pellet stove and the quality of the pellets you use. On average, a Hot Rod igniter can last between 2-5 years before needing to be replaced.

Where Can I Get a Replacement Igniter For My Pellet Stove?

Right here of course! Stove & Grill Parts has been the longest running supplier of both genuine OEM and high quality aftermarket pellet stove parts online. Our parts come with an included warranty and technical support. We're here to make sure your igniter is back up and running, so that you and your family have the heat you need to stay safe and comfortable throughout the cold season.

III. Common Pellet Stove Igniter Problems

Like any other component of a pellet stove, igniters can experience problems over time. Some of the most common issues that arise with pellet stove igniters include:

Igniter failure

Igniters can wear out over time and eventually stop working. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including overheating, power surges, and damage from moisture. Keep in mind that igniters have a limited lifespan and will need to be replaced as they age.

Igniter damage

Igniters can be damaged if they come into contact with the pellets or other debris in the firebox. This can cause them to become less effective or stop working altogether.

Incorrect installation

Igniters must be installed correctly in order to function properly. If they are installed incorrectly, they may not generate enough heat to ignite the pellets.

IV. Troubleshooting Tips for Pellet Stove Igniters

Tip 1: Visually Inspect the Igniter for Physical Damage

One of the most common issues with pellet stove igniters is physical damage. If the igniter is damaged or broken, it will not be able to light the pellets, and your stove will not function correctly. To check for physical damage, follow these steps:

1. Turn off your pellet stove and let it cool down completely.
2. Locate the igniter, which is typically a small, metal rod located near the burn pot.
3. Inspect the igniter for any signs of physical damage, such as cracks, bends, or other deformities.
4. If you notice any damage, replace the igniter with a new one.

Tip 2: Clean the Pellet Stove Igniter

Another common issue with pellet stove igniters is a buildup of debris, ash, or other materials that can prevent the igniter from working correctly. To clean the igniter, follow these steps:

1. Turn off your pellet stove and let it cool down completely.
2. Locate the igniter, which is typically a small, metal rod located near the burn pot.
3. Use a wire brush or a small brush to gently clean the igniter.
4. Be sure to remove any debris or ash that may be blocking the igniter's tip.

Tip 3: Check the Electrical Connections

If the igniter is not receiving power, it will not be able to light the pellets, and your stove will not function correctly. To check the electrical connections, follow these steps:

1. Turn off your pellet stove and let it cool down completely.
2. Locate the igniter and follow the wires back to the control board.
3. Check the electrical connections for any signs of damage or corrosion.
4. If you notice any issues, repair or replace the damaged parts.

Tip 4: Check if the Igniter is Receiving Power

To diagnose an issue with the igniter, a multimeter can be utilized to measure whether the igniter is receiving the appropriate voltage at the wire connections. Igniters typically require 115-120 volts to turn on, though in some cases up to 400 volts (check manual). If the multimeter indicates that the appropriate voltage is present, but the igniter fails to heat up, it may be necessary to replace the igniter.

On the other hand, if no power is present, it's recommended to refer to the wiring diagram provided in the owner's manual to locate the circuit for the igniter. Starting from the igniter wires, work backward to the power source to determine where the breakdown in the circuit is occurring. This can help to pinpoint the issue and allow for effective troubleshooting and repair.

WARNING: NEVER PERFORM A BENCH TEST ON AN IGNITER BY PLUGGING IT INTO A POWER CORD WITH SPADE CLIPS. THIS IS EXTREMELY DANGEROUS.

Tip 5: Check If the Igniter Has Continuity

To determine if the igniter is functioning properly, it's important to check for continuity and resistance using a multimeter. This test assesses the ability of the igniter to allow electricity to flow through the circuit. Some digital multimeters have a specific continuity testing mode, but resistance can also be used to measure continuity through the igniter.

Continuity

Continuity refers to the ability of an electric current to flow continuously from one end of the circuit to the other. When testing the igniter with a multimeter, it should indicate that there is continuity through the igniter. If there is no continuity, it could be a sign that the wires of the igniter have been damaged.

Resistance

Resistance is measured in ohms and indicates how well an electric current can flow through the circuit. To test the resistance of the igniter, set the multimeter to measure the lowest value of resistance and connect the red and black terminals to each end of the igniter wire. A properly functioning igniter should register 30-60 ohms of resistance when cool (check manual for actual resistance).

Tip 6: Check the Control Board

If none of the above tips have resolved the issue, it's possible that the problem lies with the control board. The control board is responsible for regulating the igniter's power and ensuring that it functions correctly. To check the control board, follow these steps:

1. Turn off your pellet stove and let it cool down completely.
2. Locate the control board, which is typically located near the back of the stove.
3. Check the control board for any signs of damage or corrosion.
4. If you notice any issues, repair or replace the damaged parts.

V. Conclusion

Pellet stove igniters play a critical role in the functioning of your pellet stove. Without them, your stove will not be able to provide the heat you need to keep your home warm and comfortable. By following the troubleshooting tips and techniques outlined in this article, you can identify and fix any issues that may arise with your pellet stove igniter.

Remember to always turn off your pellet stove and let it cool down completely before attempting any repairs. If you're unsure about any of the steps outlined in this article, it's best to seek professional help to avoid causing further damage.

We hope this article has been helpful in troubleshooting your pellet stove igniter. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to reach out to us for further assistance.