Goodman Furnace: Igniter fault or improper grounding
Igniter fault or improper grounding on a Goodman furnace: Furnace is locked out on an igniter circuit error. Control sees a bad igniter circuit or a bad ground. Check wiring and ground first, then igniter, then board. Power off before you touch it.
Applies to: 34.5 in chassis gas furnaces
Common causes of igniter fault or improper grounding
- Problem with igniter circuit wiring
- Improperly connected igniter
- Shorted igniter
- Poor unit ground
- Igniter relay fault on the integrated control module
How to fix igniter fault or improper grounding: step by step
- Turn power off before repair
- Check and correct wiring from the control module to the igniter. Look at the plug for burnt pins
- Replace a shorted igniter with the correct part
- Check and correct the unit ground wiring. A loose ground gives odd igniter faults
- Check igniter output from the control and replace if needed
- Replace the control module with the correct part if the igniter relay has failed
- Handle the igniter by the base, never the element
If the unit shows an error code, look it up: Goodman Furnace codes
Source: Goodman GMVC96 Service and Troubleshooting, p. 61. Written in our own words as a summary; always check the original manual.
General guidance for qualified technicians. The manufacturer's installation and service manual and local codes always take priority. Aurora Star Tech is not affiliated with, endorsed by or sponsored by any equipment manufacturer; brand and model names are used only to identify equipment and belong to their owners.