1. Product Overview
The Clare 20834 is an aftermarket hot surface ignitor designed for furnace applications. This component is crucial for initiating the combustion process in gas furnaces by providing a high-temperature surface to ignite the gas.
This ignitor serves as a direct replacement for various furnace models, ensuring reliable performance and efficient heating. It is engineered to meet or exceed the specifications of original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Installation and servicing of heating equipment can be hazardous due to gas and electrical components. This product should only be installed and serviced by a qualified service technician.
- Always disconnect all electrical power to the furnace before installing or servicing the ignitor to prevent electrical shock.
- Turn off the gas supply to the furnace before beginning any work to prevent gas leaks or explosions.
- Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE), such as gloves and eye protection.
- Handle the ignitor carefully. The ceramic material is fragile and can break if dropped or mishandled.
- Ensure all wiring connections are secure and correct according to the furnace manufacturer's specifications.
- Verify proper operation after installation and check for any gas leaks using an appropriate leak detection method.
3. Package Contents
Verify that all components are present and undamaged before proceeding with installation.
Image 1: Contents of the Clare 20834 Aftermarket Furnace Ignitor package. The image displays the hot surface ignitor with its electrical leads, various metal mounting brackets, a screw, and two ceramic wire nuts, along with a protective sleeve.
- 1x Hot Surface Ignitor (Clare 20834)
- Assorted Mounting Brackets
- 1x Mounting Screw
- 2x Ceramic Wire Nuts
- 1x Protective Wire Sleeve
4. Setup and Installation
Installation should only be performed by a qualified HVAC technician. Incorrect installation can lead to property damage, serious injury, or death.
- Disconnect Power and Gas: Ensure all electrical power to the furnace and the gas supply are completely shut off at their respective sources.
- Access Ignitor: Locate and remove the furnace access panel(s) to gain access to the burner assembly and the existing ignitor.
- Identify and Document Wiring: Note the wiring connections to the old ignitor. Taking a photograph can be helpful for reference.
- Remove Old Ignitor: Carefully disconnect the wiring from the old ignitor. Remove any screws or clips securing the old ignitor to its mounting bracket. Discard the old ignitor responsibly.
- Select Mounting Bracket: Choose the appropriate mounting bracket from the provided assortment that matches the original ignitor's mounting configuration.
- Install New Ignitor: Attach the new Clare 20834 ignitor to the selected mounting bracket using the provided screw. Ensure the ignitor is positioned correctly and securely.
- Mount Ignitor Assembly: Secure the new ignitor assembly (ignitor + bracket) into the furnace burner assembly, ensuring it is in the correct position relative to the gas burner for proper ignition.
- Connect Wiring: Connect the ignitor's electrical leads to the furnace wiring using the ceramic wire nuts. Ensure connections are tight and secure. If necessary, use the protective wire sleeve to shield wires from heat.
- Restore Power and Gas: Replace all furnace access panels. Restore the gas supply and then the electrical power to the furnace.
- Test Operation: Initiate a call for heat at the thermostat and observe the furnace's ignition sequence to ensure the new ignitor glows and ignites the gas burner properly.
5. Operating Principles
The hot surface ignitor operates as part of the furnace's ignition control system. When a call for heat is initiated, the control board sends voltage to the ignitor, causing its silicon carbide or silicon nitride element to heat rapidly to a very high temperature (typically 1800-2500°F). Once the ignitor reaches its optimal temperature, the gas valve opens, allowing gas to flow over the hot surface, which then ignites the gas. The ignitor typically remains energized for a short period after ignition to ensure stable flame establishment, then de-energizes.
6. Maintenance
Regular maintenance of your furnace, including inspection of the ignitor, is recommended to ensure optimal performance and longevity. This should be performed by a qualified technician.
- Annual Inspection: Have the ignitor inspected annually by a qualified technician as part of routine furnace maintenance.
- Visual Check: During inspection, the technician will check for cracks, discoloration, or signs of wear on the ceramic element. A healthy ignitor typically glows brightly orange/yellow when energized.
- Cleaning: Avoid touching the ceramic element with bare hands as oils can create hot spots and reduce lifespan. If cleaning is necessary, use a soft, dry brush to gently remove any dust or debris. Do not use liquids or abrasive cleaners.
- Replacement: Ignitors have a finite lifespan. If the ignitor shows signs of degradation, fails to glow, or the furnace experiences intermittent ignition issues, it may need replacement.
7. Troubleshooting
If your furnace is not igniting, the ignitor may be a contributing factor. Always ensure safety precautions are followed before attempting any troubleshooting.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Ignitor does not glow. | No power to ignitor, faulty ignitor, faulty control board, loose wiring. | Verify power supply. Check wiring connections. Test ignitor for continuity (requires multimeter). Consult a qualified technician for control board diagnosis. |
| Ignitor glows but gas does not ignite. | Low gas pressure, faulty gas valve, ignitor not hot enough, ignitor positioned incorrectly. | Ensure gas supply is on. Check for proper ignitor positioning. A qualified technician should inspect gas pressure and gas valve operation. |
| Ignitor glows intermittently or weakly. | Aging ignitor, fluctuating voltage, poor connection. | Inspect wiring connections. Consider ignitor replacement if it's old or shows signs of degradation. Consult a technician for voltage checks. |
For complex issues or if you are unsure about any step, contact a certified HVAC professional.
8. Specifications
- Model: Clare 20834
- Type: Aftermarket Hot Surface Ignitor
- Product Dimensions: Approximately 6 x 6 x 6 inches (packaging dimensions)
- Weight: Approximately 5 ounces (packaging weight)
- Manufacturer: Universal (as per product data)
- ASIN: B00FH7SBZM
9. Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding the Clare 20834 Aftermarket Replacement Ignitor, please refer to the documentation provided by your point of purchase or contact the seller directly. Warranty terms can vary based on the retailer and manufacturer.
For technical support or assistance with installation and troubleshooting, it is recommended to consult a qualified HVAC professional. They possess the necessary expertise and tools to safely diagnose and resolve issues related to furnace components.
