Cost of Igniter for Gas Furnace: Prices, Types, and Replacement Guide

The cost of an igniter for a gas furnace varies by type, brand, labor rates, and region. This article explains price ranges, factors affecting cost, installation options, troubleshooting, and tips to minimize expenses while ensuring safe, reliable furnace operation.

Igniter Type	Typical Part Cost	Average Professional Installation
Hot Surface Igniter (HSI)	$20 – $150	$100 – $300
Hot Surface Igniter Assembly	$80 – $300	$150 – $400
Intermittent Pilot (Spark) Igniter	$25 – $200	$120 – $350
Pilot Assembly Replacement	$30 – $250	$120 – $400

What Is A Furnace Igniter And Why It Matters

A furnace igniter is the component that initiates combustion in a gas furnace. Modern furnaces use hot surface igniters (HSI) or spark/intermittent pilot igniters instead of standing pilot lights. A functioning igniter is essential for heating performance, safety, and energy efficiency.

Types Of Igniters And Typical Prices

Hot Surface Igniter (HSI)

HSIs are ceramic-based elements that glow red-hot to ignite gas. They are common in high-efficiency furnaces. Part costs typically range from $20 for generic replacements to $150 for OEM parts or assemblies with connectors.

Spark Or Intermittent Pilot Igniter

Spark igniters create a spark to light the pilot or main burner. Costs vary from $25 to $200 depending on whether the unit is a simple electrode or part of a manufacturer-specific module.

Pilot Assembly And Thermocouple

Older furnaces may use a pilot assembly and thermocouple. Replacing the assembly or thermocouple costs $30 to $250 for parts and $120 to $400 installed, depending on complexity.

Igniter Assemblies And Control Modules

Some replacements require the full igniter assembly or control module, which can raise the part cost to $150–$400. OEM assemblies are typically pricier but ensure compatibility and reliability.

Labor And Total Replacement Cost

Labor rates for HVAC technicians vary by region, typically $75–$150 per hour. Most igniter replacements take 0.5 to 2 hours. Total installed costs average $100–$400 for common repairs and can reach $500 or more for complex assemblies or older systems that require additional diagnostics.

Factors That Affect The Cost Of An Igniter For Gas Furnace

• Igniter Type: HSIs are usually less expensive than complete OEM assemblies.
• Brand And Model: Manufacturer-specific parts cost more and may require dealer-service to maintain warranty.
• Labor Rates: Urban areas and emergency or same-day services add to the cost.
• Accessibility: Tight or awkward installations increase labor time.
• Diagnostic Time: Technicians may charge for diagnostics if the problem isn’t clearly an igniter failure.
• Additional Repairs: Burners, control boards, wiring, or gas valves discovered during service will increase total costs.

DIY Replacement Vs Professional Service

Many homeowners consider DIY replacement to save money. While some igniters are straightforward to replace, gas furnace work carries safety risks and may void warranties.

When DIY Makes Sense

• Part is inexpensive and accessible.
• Homeowner has HVAC experience and tools.
• Local codes and warranty terms allow DIY repairs.

When To Hire A Professional

• Igniter is part of an assembly or control module.
• Any gas line, valve, or combustion testing is required.
• Unit is under warranty requiring authorized service.
• Unclear failure source or repeated ignition faults.

Hiring a professional ensures proper safety checks, leak tests, and furnace calibration.

How To Diagnose Igniter Problems

Common signs of igniter failure include the furnace attempting to ignite but failing, long ignition delays, visible cracks in HSIs, and diagnostic error codes on the furnace control board. Visual inspection, multimeter resistance checks, and observing the ignition sequence are standard diagnostic steps.

Quick Diagnostic Steps

1. Turn off power and gas before inspecting components.
2. Inspect the igniter for visible cracks or damage.
3. Check wiring and connectors for corrosion or loose connections.
4. Measure resistance of HSI with a multimeter—very low or infinite resistance indicates failure.
5. Watch the ignition sequence to determine whether the control board is calling for ignition.

Typical Lifespan And Signs It’s Time To Replace

Hot surface igniters usually last 3–10 years depending on cycles and usage. Spark igniters and pilot assemblies can last longer but deteriorate with age and heat stress. Signs to replace include visible damage, inconsistent ignition, longer time to light, and repeated safety lockouts.

Steps In Professional Igniter Replacement

1. Technician performs a full diagnostic and safety check.
2. Power and gas are shut off before work begins.
3. Old igniter or assembly is removed, and connectors are inspected.
4. New igniter (OEM or compatible aftermarket) is installed and secured.
5. Technician performs combustion and safety tests, checks for gas leaks, and verifies proper ignition timing.

Professional replacement includes testing the furnace under load to ensure stable operation.

How To Save Money On Igniter Replacement

• Compare quotes from 2–3 licensed HVAC companies.
• Ask about OEM versus compatible aftermarket parts and warranty differences.
• Schedule repairs during non-peak times to avoid emergency service premiums.
• Consider preventive maintenance plans to catch issues early and reduce emergency repairs.
• Check manufacturer warranty; some parts are covered under system warranties.

Where To Buy Igniters And Parts

Parts are available from HVAC distributors, manufacturer dealers, and reputable online retailers. OEM parts offer guaranteed compatibility but can be more expensive. Aftermarket parts are less costly but require careful matching of specifications and connectors.

Trusted Sources

• Manufacturer Dealer Or Authorized Service Center
• HVAC Supply Houses And Local Distributors
• Reputable Online Retailers With Part Numbers And Return Policies

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• Installing an incorrect igniter or using improper connectors.
• Skipping safety checks or gas leak tests.
• Assuming the igniter is the only failing component—control modules and sensors also fail.
• Ignoring manufacturer instructions, which can void warranties.

Cost Examples And Scenarios

Scenario	Part Cost	Labor	Total Estimate
Simple HSI Replacement (Generic)	$25	$100	$125
OEM HSI Assembly Replacement	$180	$150	$330
Spark Igniter Module Replacement	$80	$140	$220
Pilot Assembly & Thermocouple	$60	$160	$220
Complex Control/Assembly Replacement	$250	$200	$450+

When Replacement Could Lead To Larger Repairs

Sometimes ignition issues indicate deeper problems: cracked heat exchangers, failing control boards, clogged burners, or gas pressure irregularities. Replacing the igniter without addressing these underlying faults can result in repeated failures and higher costs.

Warranty And Documentation Tips

Keep receipts, part numbers, and technician reports. If the furnace is under warranty, contact the manufacturer before commissioning third-party repairs. Using unauthorized parts or technicians may void coverage.

FAQ

How Long Does It Take To Replace An Igniter?

Typical replacements take 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on accessibility and whether additional troubleshooting is required.

Can An Igniter Be Repaired Instead Of Replaced?

Most igniters are replaced rather than repaired because ceramic HSIs are fragile and repair options are limited. Wiring or connector issues can be repaired if the igniter itself remains intact.

Is It Safe To Run The Furnace With A Faulty Igniter?

No. A faulty igniter can cause incomplete ignition and repeated gas valve attempts, triggering safety lockouts. Avoid running the furnace until it is repaired to prevent safety hazards.

Will Replacing The Igniter Improve Efficiency?

A properly functioning igniter ensures timely ignition and reduces wasted gas from failed ignition attempts. While it’s not a major efficiency upgrade, it preserves designed performance and safety.

Key Takeaways

Cost Of Igniter For Gas Furnace depends on igniter type, part source, labor rates, and system complexity. Homeowners should weigh OEM versus aftermarket parts, consider professional installation for safety, and obtain multiple quotes. Regular maintenance helps extend igniter life and reduce emergency repair costs.

For accurate pricing, provide the furnace model and existing part number to suppliers or technicians to ensure the correct replacement and a reliable cost estimate.