What should you do when your water heater igniter won’t spark? This can cause a serious headache because you have this heater, and yet you can’t make it run. If you have tried turning it on and yet don’t see any spark, there are several possibilities and methods to troubleshoot the issue. Make sure that you understand the concept so you can provide the proper solution.
Hot Water Heater Igniter Won’t Spark
What actually happens when your water heater igniter won’t spark? You see, different water heaters will use different construction and frames. But in general, your heater may implement an igniter to ignite (or light up) the gas. When you hold the water heater pilot igniter switch down and then click the (igniter) button repeatedly, you should see a small spark lighting up the pilot.
However, nothing may happen even after you click the igniter again and again. It means that there is something wrong with the system. In short, if there is no spark, then your gas water heater is not lighting or running. In the end, your heater would be useless, and it won’t function.
Water Heater Piezo Igniter Won’t Spark
Now that you already know about igniter and how it works, it’s time to get into the details of the system. Piezo igniter is also referred to as the push-button igniter to produce a spark. It is then transferred to the (ignition) source so your heater can turn on and operate.
But when you encounter issues like Piezo igniter no spark, you need to know the solution and how to troubleshoot the issue correctly.
Make sure that you have (and use) a pair of insulated pliers, as well as other tools required to remove the igniter and separate it from your heater. Remember, insulated pliers and not the regular ones. Turn off the gas supply and remove the igniter. Check for any (visible) breaks or cracks.
If there is any, you need to replace the igniter. But if you can’t find any, try to connect it to the electrode. If you press the igniter and there is a spark, the issue isn’t on the igniter. But if you don’t see any spark, then the culprit is the igniter, and you need to replace it.
Aside from the igniter, there are also some reasons why there is no spark, or the electrode is having an issue:
- The pilot line is clogged, which is common when debris or dirt is obstructing the line. You need to clean it or replace it
- There is a loose wire connection. Check whether they have been tightened properly.
- The electrode is broken. If it is damaged, you need to replace it. Otherwise, there won’t be any spark at all
Final Words
If you have doubts about checking your own heater or are completely clueless about the unit, don’t hesitate to ask for help. It’s always better to ask for assistance instead of forcing yourself to repair it but end up with more damages. At least you know the facts and solution about water heater igniter won’t spark, so you know what to do.
