What is the piezo igniter button?
Elijah King
Updated on March 04, 2026
What is the piezo igniter button?
Piezo ignition is a type of ignition that is used in portable camping stoves, gas grills and some lighters. Piezo ignition systems can be operated by either a lever, push-button or built into the control knob. An electric spark is usually generated once per turn of the knob or press of the button.
How does a piezo igniter work?
When the button on a Piezo electric ignitor is pressed, a spring loaded hammer strikes quartz in order to create a spark. This is the typical process used in such lighters. This creates the necessary amount of voltage to generate a spark. At the same time, this process creates enough energy to produce a spark.
How do I know if my piezo igniter is working?
Connect the piezo igniter to the electrode (figure 3), holding the electrode about ¼” to ½” away from the shell of the heater with the insulated pliers depress the piezo igniter. If a spark is present every time the igniter is pressed, the piezo igniter is fine, if no spark is seen, replace the piezo igniter.
How much does an igniter for a gas fireplace cost?
Homeowners typically pay between $120 to $225 to have the ignitor replaced on their furnace. If the unit is still under warranty, you’ll only pay for labor which runs around 2 hours total and cost around $150.
Why isn’t my gas fireplace lighting?
If gas is coming out of the pilot, but it still won’t light, the spark igniter could be the problem. Alleyne says to look for and clear out any debris between the igniter and thermocouple. The pilot lighting, but not staying lit, indicates that the thermocouple is worn out, Worthen says.
Why is my igniter not working?
Make sure that the igniter is making a clicking noise when you press the igniter button. If it doesn’t click, then the wires may not be connected properly, the battery may be dead or installed incorrectly, or the igniter module may have failed.
How long does a piezo igniter last?
How long does it last? While matches and lighters must be replaced or refilled, matchfree ignition systems are built to last for life. While malfunctions do occur, the average piezo lighter lasts for a minimum of ten years, far longer than even a whole box of matches!
What do I do if my pilot light won’t light?
If your pilot light won’t stay alight, it might be the thermocouple. Sometimes dust buildup collects on the thermocouple and blocks the sensor. Try cleaning the thermocouple and then relighting the pilot light. If it continues to go out, the thermocouple might need to be replaced.
How many volts does a piezo igniter produce?
Due to piezo-electric effect, a high voltage is generated in the range of 800 volts. The lighter is wired in such a way that this whole voltage is applied in a small region of air gap between two metallic points.
How much does an ignitor cost?
An ignitor typically costs between $30 and $50.
How long should a furnace ignitor last?
about seven years
Fortunately, you can replace the ignitor without replacing the full furnace. Most ignitors last about seven years. Keep reading to learn how you can tell if your furnace problem is a faulty ignitor.