DIY Guide: How to Replace the Gas Dryer Igniter Safely

Posted: January 13, 2025

If your gas dryer is not heating or drying well, a bad or bad gas dryer igniter could be the problem. The igniter for a gas dryer is important because it ignites the gas that heats the air in your dryer. The good news is that replacing a dryer igniter is a doable DIY project that can get your dryer back up and running at its best. This guide will take you through the step-by-step process of replacing your dryer igniter so that you can feel confident with this repair and do it safely and effectively.

Table of Contents
How does a gas dryer igniter work? 
Signs Indicating the Need for Dryer Igniter Replacement
Steps to Safely Replacing a Gas Dryer Igniter
Estimating the Dryer Igniter Replacement Cost
Troubleshooting Common Gas Dryer Igniter Issues
Essential Maintenance Tips for Gas Dryer Igniter

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How does a gas dryer igniter work? 

The burner assembly releases gas which is ignited by a bright glow produced by the igniter. The igniter is powered by the ignition system when the dryer is turned on and heats up to a temperature hot enough to ignite the gas. This process allows the gas to burn, hence the heat needed to dry clothes.

The dryer igniter is very important in the drying process. If the igniter isn't working properly, the gas dryer won't heat, and clothes will come out damp or un-dried.

There are primarily two types of dryer igniters:

  • Glow bar igniters: These are a significant problem in residential gas dryers and they are made of a ceramic substance and glow with electricity through them to give off enough heat to ignite the gas. 

  • Silicone carbide igniters: They are known for their faster ignition time and their durability. Silicone igniters heat up slower than they do, so they operate more efficiently. 

Signs Indicating the Need for Dryer Igniter Replacement

Recognizing the signs that the gas dryer igniter needs replacement is vital for ensuring your dryer operates efficiently and safely. 

Sign

Description

Gas dryer igniter not glowing

The igniter does not emit a bright glow during the operational cycle.

Gas dryer not igniting

The igniter glows, but the dryer still does not ignite.

Visual inspection for cracks/damage

Cracks, discoloration, or burn marks are visible on the igniter.

Performance issues

Inconsistent heating or prolonged drying times.

Steps to Safely Replacing a Gas Dryer Igniter

Locate the gas shut-off valve and turn it off to avoid gas leaks during the replacement process. Work in a well-ventilated area to minimize exposure to gas fumes.

How to Check Gas Dryer Igniter

  • Access the igniter: For some dryer models, you remove the screwdriver depending on removing the front or back panel. To reach the igniter, you may have to remove a lint trap cover or other parts.

  • Locate the igniter: Locate the igniter unit it is usually placed close to the burner assembly.

  • Perform continuity check: Using the multimeter check the continuity of the igniter. Cut the wires, and slot the multimeter probes into the igniter terminals. If the multimeter shows no continuity, your multimeter must have found the problem: a defective igniter that will need to be replaced.

  • Disconnect the wires: Disconnect the wires connected to the igniter and make a mental note of where they are to go back.

  • Remove the old igniter: Remove any fasteners that secure the igniter with some sort of unscrew or unclip. To remove the damaged igniter, gently lift it out of where it resides.

How to Replace an Igniter on a Gas Dryer

  • Position the new igniter: Put your new gas dryer igniter in the same place as the old igniter.

  • Secure the igniter: Make sure the new igniter snaps in snugly, but not so much it will damage it.

  • Reconnect the wires: Connect the wires to the new igniter refer to your notes or the original installation. Make sure connections are tight and make contact.

  • Reassemble the dryer: Place the panel or cover you removed back in place and tighten all of the screws and fasteners you removed.

Estimating the Dryer Igniter Replacement Cost

A gas dryer igniter costs between $20 and $100, depending on the brand and model. You may also end up with extra costs if the inspection requires professional installation or if some other part is broken.

  • Labor costs usually go for $50 – $150 when you hire a technician, depending on where you live.

Troubleshooting Common Gas Dryer Igniter Issues

Dealing with issues related to gas dryers can be frustrating, especially when your gas dryer igniter not glowing prevents your laundry from drying. 

Faulty igniter: With time, igniters can burn out and the igniter does not supply enough heat to ignite the gas.

  • Inspect the igniter for cracks or damage as you open the dryer.

  • To test igniter continuity, use a multimeter.

Thermocouple issues: The igniter may not work if the thermocouple is not working properly.

  • With a multimeter test the continuity of the thermocouple.

  • If it fails to monitor flame activity, replace it.

Gas supply problems: Ignition is blocked or closed gas lines.

  • Ensure the gas valve is open.

  • Look for blockages in the gas line.

Electrical issues: Faulty wiring connections may prevent the igniter from receiving power.

  • Inspect wiring and connections for frayed wires or loose connections.

Most Common Dryer Problems and How to Fix Them 

Essential Maintenance Tips for Gas Dryer Igniter

Maintaining the igniter for the gas dryer is crucial for ensuring that your dryer operates effectively and efficiently. 

  • Regular cleaning and inspection: The dryer igniter should be checked and cleaned as needed to remove lint, dust, and debris periodically. The build-up can cause the igniter to malfunction or operate inefficiently. For the gas dryer use a soft brush or vacuum attachment to carefully remove any obstructions around the igniter. 

  • Ensuring proper airflow: Excess strain on the igniter can cause it to fail prematurely, as the airflow can be blocked by either blocked vents or lint accumulation in its path. Check and clean the dryer vent regularly and make sure it’s clear of obstructions. 

How To Clean A Dryer: 9 Easy Steps

Gas dryer igniter replacement is a simple yet important maintenance task that will greatly improve the performance of your dryer. Remember to remember to prioritize safety during the process, however, and make sure you are ordering the right parts for your model. If you have the right tools and knowledge, you can extend the life of your igniter dryer and have your drying appliance working again. HnKParts offers a wide variety of dryer replacement parts for both electric and gas dryers from top-selling manufacturers. 

FAQs

How to test a dryer igniter​?

To test a dryer igniter, restore the gas supply, plug the dryer back into its power source, and run a test cycle. Monitor for proper ignition by listening for the igniter to glow and checking if the gas burner ignites to produce heat within a short period.

How to Extend the Lifespan of the Igniter?

Avoid overloading the dryer, follow the manufacturer's drying guidelines, and minimize using high heat settings to prevent stress on the dryer igniter.

When to Replace Dryer Igniter with Professional Help?

If the dryer igniter is still not glowing after troubleshooting or if you are uncomfortable with electrical or gas work, contact a professional to safely replace the igniter and identify any underlying issues.