A failed furnace ignitor is a common winter headache—and often an affordable fix compared with major furnace repairs. This guide breaks down the average furnace ignitor replacement cost in the U.S., what affects the price, how long the repair takes, DIY versus professional considerations, and proven ways to save while keeping safety first.
Average Furnace Ignitor Replacement Cost
Most homeowners can expect to pay $180 to $350 for furnace ignitor replacement, including parts and labor. Costs vary by ignitor type, brand, access, and timing.
On the low end, a simple swap with a universal part during regular hours may be as little as $120 to $180. On the high side, OEM parts, difficult access, or emergency service can push totals to $400 to $600.
Labor generally takes 30–60 minutes for an experienced technician, plus diagnostic time. The repair often restores heat the same day.
| Cost Component | Typical Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Service Call / Diagnostic | $75–$150 | Sometimes applied to repair if work is approved |
| Ignitor Part | $25–$150 | Universal often costs less; OEM often costs more |
| Labor | $75–$225 | 0.5–1.5 hours at $75–$150 per hour |
| After-Hours/Emergency Premium | $75–$200+ | Added to normal charges for nights/holidays |
| Total (Typical) | $180–$350 | Common for standard hot surface ignitors |
| Total (High-End) | $400–$600 | OEM parts, difficult access, or emergency visit |
Ignitor Part Prices By Type
Most modern gas furnaces use a hot surface ignitor (HSI) that glows to light the burners. Two main materials are used: silicone carbide and silicone nitride. A few furnaces rely on spark systems instead. Oil furnaces use different ignition components.
| Ignition Type | Typical Part Price | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Silicone Carbide HSI | $25–$90 | Common, lower-cost, more brittle; often 40–200 ohms resistance |
| Silicone Nitride HSI | $40–$150 | More durable, higher price; often recommended upgrade |
| Spark Ignitor Assembly | $50–$120 | Less common in furnaces; electrode and cable assembly |
| Oil Furnace Ignition Transformer/Module | $80–$180 | Different system than gas; electrodes and transformer |
| OEM (Brand-Specific) Ignitor | $75–$200 | Carrier, Trane, Lennox, etc.; may require exact match |
| Universal Replacement Ignitor | $25–$100 | Fits many models with correct bracket/connectors |
Silicone nitride ignitors usually last longer and tolerate thermal cycling better than silicone carbide. Many technicians recommend nitride upgrades where compatible. Always check compatibility with the furnace’s control board and mounting hardware.
Labor, Fees, And Timing
For a straightforward replacement, technicians typically spend 30–60 minutes onsite. Additional time may be needed to access tight compartments, remove corrosion, or perform safety checks.
- Service call/diagnosis: $75–$150, often credited if repair proceeds.
- Hourly labor rate: $75–$150 in most U.S. markets.
- After-hours premium: $75–$200+ for nights, weekends, or holidays.
- Total time: 0.5–1.5 hours including testing and cycling.
Technicians commonly test for proper voltage, gas valve operation, flame rectification, and confirm that the high-limit and pressure switches operate correctly before closing up the furnace.
What Drives Furnace Ignitor Replacement Cost
Several variables influence what a homeowner pays. Knowing them helps set expectations and manage the budget.
- Ignitor type: Nitride parts cost more but may last longer. Carbide is cheaper but brittle.
- Brand and compatibility: Carrier, Trane, Lennox, and other OEM ignitors can be pricier.
- Furnace age and design: Older or compact units may require extra labor for access.
- Condition of wiring and connectors: Heat damage or melted plugs adds parts and time.
- Corrosion or debris: Rusted screws, burner buildup, or cracked gaskets increase labor.
- Regional labor rates: Urban/coastal areas often run higher than rural regions.
- Emergency timing: Nights/weekends raise costs significantly.
- Warranty status: A parts warranty may cover the ignitor, leaving labor/trip charges.
Symptoms And Diagnosis Of A Bad Ignitor
A failing ignitor usually shows up as a furnace that tries to start but never lights, then shuts down. Short cycling can also occur. Other components can mimic these symptoms, so testing is essential.
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- No heat with blower running: The furnace attempts ignition, fails, and the blower circulates cool air.
- Repeated clicking or attempts: Control retries ignition, then locks out.
- Visual cracks or white spots: Hot surface ignitor element appears damaged.
- Error codes: Blinking lights on the control board indicate ignition failure.
- Multimeter test: An HSI typically reads tens to low hundreds of ohms; infinite or zero suggests failure.
Important: A dirty flame sensor can prevent flame signal even if the ignitor lights the burners. Cleaning or replacing the sensor is cheaper than an ignitor.
| Issue | Typical Fix | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Cracked or Open Ignitor | Replace ignitor | $180–$350 total |
| Dirty Flame Sensor | Clean or replace sensor | $75–$250 total |
| Gas Supply/Valve Problem | Adjust or replace component | $150–$600+ |
| Control Board Fault | Repair or replace board | $400–$900+ |
| Draft/Pressure Switch Fault | Replace switch or clear tubing | $125–$300 |
DIY Versus Professional Replacement
Replacing a hot surface ignitor is a small job for a trained HVAC pro. Many handy homeowners can do it, but risks are real, especially around gas, high heat, and fragile parts.
DIY savings may total $100–$200 if only the part is purchased. However, a misstep—like touching the element, bending the bracket, or using the wrong ignitor—can cause immediate failure or damage the control board.
What DIY Requires
- Safety first: Turn off power at the switch/breaker and shut gas if recommended by the manufacturer.
- Tools: Nut driver, screwdriver, flashlight, and optionally a multimeter; about $20–$50 if not already owned.
- Compatibility: Match voltage, shape, connector, and mounting. Some “universal” ignitors need an adapter bracket or wiring change.
- No-touch rule: Do not touch the ignitor’s element; oils can shorten life.
- Testing: Run a full heat cycle after installation and watch ignition.
When to call a pro: If there is uncertainty about gas safety, wiring, proper part, or if other error codes appear. Pros also check combustion, venting, and system safety—value beyond the part swap.
Repair Or Replace The Furnace?
An ignitor replacement is a minor repair compared with a full furnace replacement. Still, the cost can be a decision point for older systems.
A common rule of thumb: if a system is near end-of-life and repair costs exceed 50% of replacement, consider upgrading. An ignitor repair rarely crosses that line, but repeated repairs might.
| Scenario | Guidance |
|---|---|
| Furnace Age 0–10 Years | Repair is almost always cost-effective; check parts warranty |
| Furnace Age 10–15 Years | Repair, but monitor for frequent issues; consider efficiency upgrades |
| Furnace Age 15–20+ Years | Repair small items, but price out replacement for reliability and savings |
Installed cost for a new gas furnace typically ranges from $3,500 to $7,500 for standard efficiency and $6,000 to $12,000 for high efficiency, depending on brand, size, and home needs.
Related Repair Costs For Context
| Component | Typical Total Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flame Sensor | $75–$250 | Often resolved by cleaning |
| Pressure Switch | $125–$300 | Includes diagnosis and replacement |
| Inducer Motor | $400–$1,100 | Major repair affecting venting |
| Control Board | $400–$900+ | Brand/model specific; programming may be needed |
| Blower Motor | $400–$1,200 | ECM motors cost more |
How To Save On Furnace Ignitor Replacement
There are several smart ways to cut costs without compromising safety or reliability.
- Ask about universal parts: A compatible universal ignitor can be significantly cheaper than OEM.
- Schedule during business hours: Avoid after-hours fees when possible; use space heaters safely until morning.
- Apply the diagnostic fee: Many companies credit it toward repairs—confirm when booking.
- Bundle maintenance: Annual tune-ups ($80–$150) can prevent issues and may include discounts on parts.
- Check warranties: Parts may be covered for 5–10 years with registration; you may only pay labor.
- Keep filters clean: Proper airflow reduces overheating and thermal stress on the ignitor.
- Protect electronics: A surge protector can reduce control board and ignitor failures.
Warranties, Home Warranties, And Insurance
Most furnace manufacturers offer 5–10 years parts warranty if the unit is registered shortly after installation. Labor is usually covered for 1–2 years by installer warranty.
If the ignitor is still under parts warranty, the homeowner typically pays for labor and trip charges. Keep model, serial, and install date handy when calling.
Home warranties may cover ignitor replacement for the cost of a service fee (often $75–$125), but response times, approved contractor availability, and coverage caps vary.
Standard homeowners insurance does not cover wear-and-tear. Some policies offer equipment breakdown endorsements that may apply after a deductible, especially for surge-related failures.
Seasonal And Regional Cost Trends
Prices fluctuate with demand and location. Winter cold snaps increase call volume and push up wait times and after-hours premiums.
- Seasonality: Peak demand in winter can stretch schedules; shoulder seasons may be cheaper.
- Regional labor: Major metros on the coasts typically have higher hourly rates than many Midwestern or Southern areas.
- Supply chain: Severe weather and logistics delays can affect part availability and price.
| U.S. Region (Typical) | Ignitor Replacement Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Northeast | $220–$400 | Higher labor; older housing stock can complicate access |
| Midwest | $170–$320 | Competitive markets keep prices moderate |
| South | $150–$300 | Lower labor in many areas; less peak winter demand |
| West | $200–$380 | Coastal metros trend higher; inland costs vary |
Lifespan And Prevention
Hot surface ignitors typically last 3–7 years, depending on cycling frequency, heat stress, and handling. Nitride designs often outlast carbide.
To maximize life, ensure proper airflow with clean filters, maintain correct gas pressure, and avoid handling the ignitor element. Regular tune-ups help catch early signs of wear and keep flame sensing stable.
Safety And Code Considerations
Any work near gas and combustion requires care. Power should be switched off at the service switch or breaker. Follow manufacturer instructions and local codes.
After replacement, a pro will typically verify safeties, check for gas leaks, confirm proper venting, and ensure correct combustion. These checks add value beyond swapping a single part.
Part Selection: OEM Versus Universal
OEM ignitors are designed for specific models and ensure fit and electrical characteristics. They often cost more and may require ordering time.
Universal ignitors reduce costs and can be stocked by many technicians. They sometimes require adapter brackets or wiring kits. Compatibility with the control board’s current limits and warm-up timing is essential to avoid premature failure.
What To Expect During A Service Visit
The technician will ask about symptoms, inspect the furnace, and retrieve error codes. Testing typically includes power to the ignitor, resistance checks, and observation of a start cycle.
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If the ignitor has failed, the tech installs the new part, avoids touching the element, sets bracket spacing per spec, and runs the furnace through multiple cycles. A flame sensor cleaning is often included as preventative maintenance.
Environmental And Efficiency Notes
A working ignitor ensures reliable and clean burner starts. Weak or mistimed ignition can increase unburned fuel, soot, or nuisance lockouts.
While replacing an ignitor does not change AFUE efficiency, regular maintenance can improve real-world performance and comfort. Homeowners considering a new system can compare ENERGY STAR certified furnaces for long-term savings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Safe To Run The Furnace With A Bad Ignitor?
No. The furnace will typically lock out for safety. Repeated failed ignition cycles can stress components and should be corrected promptly.
How Long Does It Take To Replace A Furnace Ignitor?
Most replacements take 30–60 minutes once the correct part is available. Complex access, corrosion, or wiring repairs can add time.
Can Cleaning The Flame Sensor Fix Ignition Problems?
Yes, if the problem is flame sensing rather than ignition. A dirty sensor can mimic an ignitor failure. Cleaning is quick and inexpensive.
What Causes Ignitors To Fail Early?
Handling the element, excessive furnace cycling, overheating due to poor airflow, incorrect part selection, and power issues can shorten life.
Should The Ignitor Be Upgraded To Nitride?
Often yes, if compatible. Nitride ignitors are more durable and may reduce future failures. Verify with the furnace model and control board specs.
Does A Thermostat Issue Affect Ignition?
It can. Low-voltage control issues may prevent the ignition sequence. Technicians will check thermostat signals during diagnosis.
Will A New Ignitor Improve Energy Efficiency?
It will restore proper operation but does not increase rated efficiency. It can reduce nuisance failures and ensure consistent ignition.
Is The Ignitor The Same As The Flame Sensor?
No. The ignitor lights the gas; the flame sensor confirms flame presence. Both are small, inexpensive parts often serviced together.
Key Takeaways For Budgeting
- Plan for $180–$350 for most ignitor replacements, with higher costs for OEM parts or emergency calls.
- Ask about universal parts to save, but ensure compatibility and proper installation.
- Check warranties to reduce or eliminate parts costs; labor is usually not covered long-term.
- Schedule routine maintenance to extend ignitor life and catch inexpensive fixes early.
Helpful Resources
For guidance on efficient heating and maintenance best practices, consider resources from ENERGY STAR and the U.S. Department of Energy. Manufacturer owner’s manuals provide model-specific ignitor part numbers and installation instructions.
How to Get the Best HVAC Prices
- Firstly, keep in mind that installation quality is always the most important thing for residential HVAC project. So never sacrifice contractor quality for a lower price.
- Secondly, remember to look up the latest rebates as we talked above.
- Thirdly, ask for at least 3 bids before you make the decision. You can click here to get 3 free estimates from your local contractors, and this estimate already takes rebates and tax credit into consideration and filter unqualified contractors automatically.
Lastly, once you chose the right contractor, remember to use the tactics from this guide: Homeowners Tactics When Negotiating with HVAC Dealer to get the final best price.
