Where Is the Ignitor on a Goodman Furnace

Finding the ignitor on a Goodman furnace is a common task for homeowners and technicians troubleshooting ignition failures. This article explains typical ignitor locations across Goodman furnace models, offers safe steps to locate and inspect it, and provides testing and replacement guidance to restore reliable heating. Key takeaway: Ignitors are usually accessible behind the furnace access panel near the burners; identifying model details speeds diagnosis.

Goodman Furnace Type	Common Ignitor Location	Notes
Atmospheric (single-stage) Furnaces	Front lower access, adjacent to burners	Often a hot-surface ignitor (HSI) mounted on burner box
Direct Vent/High-Efficiency Condensing	Near primary heat exchanger, behind sealed intake/vent panel	Access may require removing vent and condensate lines
Modulating/Two-Stage Furnaces	Behind control panel or lower burner access	Ignitor may be more protected and connected to controls

How Goodman Furnace Ignitors Work

Goodman furnaces commonly use hot surface ignitors (HSI) or, less frequently, spark ignitors. HSIs are ceramic elements that glow red-hot when current flows, igniting gas at the burners.

They are controlled by the furnace’s control board and rely on proper voltage and timing. A malfunctioning ignitor will prevent ignition even when the gas valve and flame sensors are functional.

Identifying Your Furnace Model

Before searching for the ignitor, identify the furnace model number from the data plate located inside the access panel or on the furnace cabinet. The model number reveals the furnace family and service manual references.

Goodman model codes indicate efficiency class and configuration; using the model number helps determine whether the furnace uses an HSI or a different ignition system and pinpoints likely ignitor mounting locations.

Typical Ignitor Locations By Goodman Model Type

Standard Single-Stage Furnaces

On most single-stage Goodman furnaces the ignitor is mounted at the front of the burners inside the burner compartment. It is accessible by removing the lower front access panel, typically held with screws or spring clips.

Two-Stage And Modulating Furnaces

Two-stage and modulating units may position the ignitor deeper within the burner assembly or behind a secondary access plate. These designs protect the ignitor and integrate it with more advanced control logic.

High-Efficiency Condensing Furnaces

Condensing Goodman furnaces often have sealed combustion chambers and the ignitor sits near the primary heat exchanger. Access may require detaching PVC venting or condensate connections for full visibility.

Step-By-Step: Locating The Ignitor Safely

Safety first: Always shut power to the furnace at the breaker and turn off the gas valve before opening panels. Wait several minutes for internal components to cool before touching the ignitor.

1. Turn Off Power And Gas: Verify the furnace is de-energized and the gas supply is off.
2. Remove Access Panels: Unscrew or unlatch the lower front panel to expose the burner compartment.
3. Locate Burners: Identify the row of burners; the ignitor will be mounted adjacent to the burner ports.
4. Trace The Wiring: Look for a small two- or three-wire connector leading to a fragile ceramic element.
5. Inspect The Ignitor: The HSI appears as a thin ceramic blade or probe; avoid touching the ceramic surface with bare hands.

Visual Clues To Recognize An Ignitor

An HSI typically resembles a narrow, tan or gray ceramic piece attached to a metal bracket, with a small wire-to-plug connection. Spark ignitors appear as electrodes with a gap for arcing.

Important: Never grab or press on a ceramic ignitor; oils from skin can cause premature failure. Handle by the metal bracket or connector if removal is necessary.

Testing The Ignitor With A Multimeter

Testing confirms whether the ignitor is electrically intact. Use a digital multimeter set to the appropriate resistance (ohms) range.

1. Disconnect Power And Remove Panel: Ensure power is off and locate the ignitor harness.
2. Disconnect The Ignitor Wires: Carefully unplug the connector near the ignitor.
3. Measure Resistance: Place meter leads on the ignitor terminals; typical HSI resistance ranges from 40 to 120 ohms depending on model.
4. Interpret Results: A very high or infinite resistance indicates an open circuit (failed ignitor). A near-zero reading indicates a short.

Testing under live voltage is possible for advanced users but is not recommended for homeowners due to shock risk. If testing in operational mode, exercise extreme caution and consider professional help.

Common Ignitor Failure Symptoms

• Furnace attempts to start but stops without ignition.
• Visible cracks or dark spots on the ignitor ceramic.
• Repeated lockouts or long ignition cycles before flames establish.
• Ignitor glows dimly or not at all when the furnace is powered on.

These symptoms often point to ignitor failure but can also result from control board issues, gas valve faults, or flame sensor problems.

Replacing A Goodman Furnace Ignitor

Replacement is straightforward for many Goodman furnaces, but caution is necessary. Use OEM parts or approved aftermarket ignitors for compatibility.

1. Purchase Correct Part: Match the part number using the furnace model and serial number.
2. Turn Off Power And Gas: Ensure a safe working environment.
3. Remove Mounting Screws: Unscrew the ignitor bracket or retaining clip.
4. Disconnect The Connector: Gently unplug the wire harness from the ignitor.
5. Install New Ignitor: Mount the new ignitor without touching the ceramic element.
6. Reassemble And Test: Replace panels, restore power, and run a heat call to verify ignition.

Tip: Keep spare mounting screws and note the orientation of the old ignitor to replicate alignment and clearance from the burners.

Costs And Parts Availability

Ignitor parts for Goodman furnaces typically range from $30 to $120 depending on the model and supplier. Labor costs vary; a service call and replacement by a technician can add $100–$300 depending on regional rates.

Ordering by model number reduces compatibility issues. Many HVAC suppliers and online retailers stock commonly used Goodman ignitors.

When To Seek Professional Service

Call a licensed HVAC technician when the following apply: uncertainty about electrical testing, access requires vent or condensate removal, ignition-related codes persist after replacement, or gas system components might be involved.

Professionals can also diagnose control board or gas valve issues and ensure the system meets safety standards after repairs.

Preventive Maintenance To Prolong Ignitor Life

Regular furnace maintenance extends ignitor life and system reliability. Recommended actions include annual professional tune-ups, cleaning burner ports and flame sensors, and ensuring proper airflow and filter maintenance.

Avoid frequent short cycling and dirty filters, which increase stress on ignition components and shorten service life.

Troubleshooting Checklist Before Replacing The Ignitor

• Confirm furnace receives proper voltage at the control board.
• Check for diagnostic LED codes on Goodman control boards and reference the manual.
• Inspect the flame sensor and burners for dirt or misalignment.
• Verify the gas valve opens and gas supply is present.
• Test the ignitor resistance with a multimeter as described earlier.

Addressing these items can prevent unnecessary part changes and identify other underlying causes of ignition failure.

Safety Reminders And Best Practices

Never work on a furnace while it is energized or with the gas on. Use insulated tools when working near electrical connections and follow manufacturer instructions for torque and clearance during installation.

Document part numbers and take a photo of wiring before disconnecting connectors to ensure correct reconnection. Dispose of failed ignitors per local waste guidelines for electronic ceramic components.

Additional Resources And Manuals

Goodman provides product manuals and parts lists on its official website. OEM service manuals include wiring diagrams, diagnostic LED code lists, and exploded views showing ignitor mounting positions for specific models.

Online HVAC forums and technician guides can offer model-specific tips, but prioritize manufacturer documentation and licensed technician advice for safety-critical tasks.

Summary Of Key Steps To Locate And Replace A Goodman Ignitor

Step	Action
1	Identify furnace model and shut off power and gas
2	Remove the lower access panel to expose burners
3	Locate ceramic HSI near burner assembly
4	Test ignitor resistance with multimeter
5	Replace with matching OEM part and retest operation

Following these guidelines helps diagnose ignitor issues efficiently and safely, minimizing downtime and avoiding unnecessary costs. For any uncertainty or complex repairs, consult a licensed HVAC technician to ensure proper and safe system operation.