Top Causes of Furnace Ignition Failure in Moreno Valley, CA
Inland Empire Comfort
March 12, 2025
When the cold evenings and mornings of winter set in, residents and businesses count on reliable heating systems to maintain a comfortable and safe indoor living space. When a furnace does not start as expected, the entire heating system simply shuts down.
In this post, Inland Empire Comfort, the leading provider of furnace repair services in Moreno Valley, CA, shares essential information about the top causes of furnace ignition failure and how professionals handle these problems.

1. Dirty or Faulty Flame Sensor
Your furnace relies on a flame sensor to detect whether a flame is present when the gas valve opens. When a sensor is dirty, damaged, or malfunctioning, it often fails to detect the flame correctly. That causes the system to shut off as a safety precaution.
Modern furnaces may display an error code on a control panel when this problem occurs. Otherwise, you may notice your furnace turns on briefly before shutting down on its own or failing to ignite at all.
HVAC technicians can test sensors and perform safe cleaning when appropriate. They may also recommend a replacement of faulty components.
2. Clogged or Dirty Ignitor
Modern furnaces use either a hot surface ignitor or an intermittent pilot ignitor to light the burner. Over time, they accumulate dirt and debris. That acts as an insulator and can prevent them from generating enough heat to ignite the gas.
Furnace ignition failure is often marked by repeated clicking sounds as an igniter attempts to fire. In some cases, the igniter may glow without generating sufficient heat to light the burners.
HVAC technicians clean ignitors gently using a soft brush or compressed air. They take care to never directly touch delicate ignitor components, as oils from our skin can damage them. If cleaning is not sufficient to fix the problem, a technician can replace the defective part.
3. Malfunctioning Gas Valve
The gas valve controls the flow of natural gas to the burners. The device makes sure that the proper mix of fuel and air reaches the ignitor to light the burners. When the valve sticks or breaks, the furnace won't start.
Typically, you should notice no odor of natural gas when the valve sticks. The ignitor will also click repeatedly, but with no fuel, there is nothing to ignite.
An HVAC professional will carefully check the gas supply and then examine the valve for cleaning or replacement.
4. Faulty Ignition Control Board
A furnace's ignition control board regulates power to the ignitor and gas valve. When the board fails for any reason, expect furnace ignition failure. These furnace ignition problems typically present as a completely non-responsive ignitor or gas valve. In some furnace models, the control panel may flash error or diagnostic codes indicating the reason for the failure.
HVAC professionals can address error codes to reset the control board and handle any indicated issues. When the control board fails, technicians can replace the defective component.
5. Cracked or Dirty Burners
Of course, the furnace's burners actually deliver the combustion needed to generate heat. When burners become clogged with dirt or rust, they often result in failed or delayed furnace ignition. Delays cause a small gas buildup before the burners finally ignite. You'll usually hear a loud “whooshing” or even a small explosion when the furnace turns on in that event. Sometimes, the burner flames may appear uneven or may not stay lit at all.
Regular professional cleaning helps remove dirt and debris from the burners, ensuring proper function. When burners have warped or cracked, replacement is the best option.
6. Thermostat or Electrical Issues
A malfunctioning or miscalibrated thermostat can prevent a furnace from starting altogether. In some cases, furnace ignition failures stem from electrical issues like a tripped breaker or faulty wiring. If your furnace fails to respond when you adjust the thermostat, or if it shuts off randomly, electrical problems may be to blame.
Check the thermostat’s batteries and ensure it is properly set to “heat” mode. Check for tripped breakers before calling an HVAC expert, who can then test the thermostat and examine wiring and connections to recommend repairs or replacements.
Call on Inland Empire Comfort for Comprehensive HVAC Services in Moreno Valley, CA
When residents and businesses in Moreno Valley, CA, need expert help with ignition system troubleshooting, Inland Empire Comfort is the service provider of choice. From furnace ignition failure to furnace repair tips and furnace problems due to high winds, our local experts handle any issue promptly and effectively.
Avoid furnace safety issues and ensure consistent indoor comfort — contact Inland Empire Comfort today to schedule service.
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