Few issues frustrate homeowners more than a furnace that won’t produce heat. Often, the culprit is the furnace igniter or ignitor, a critical component responsible for initiating the heating process. Questions like “how to reset furnace igniter” or “how to reset furnace ignitor” are common for both gas and electric systems. Even though the Goodman MBVK electric furnace doesn’t have a gas flame, understanding the concept of resetting a furnace igniter, troubleshooting, and maintaining safe operation is essential.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through furnace igniter basics, step-by-step reset procedures, and preventative maintenance strategies to ensure your MBVK electric furnace operates reliably all winter long.
What Is a Furnace Igniter?
The furnace igniter or ignitor is a component that creates a spark or heat necessary to initiate the combustion process in a gas furnace. It can be:
-
Hot surface ignitor – electric heating element that glows red-hot to ignite gas
-
Spark ignitor – generates a spark to ignite the burners
Although the Goodman MBVK is an electric furnace and does not use gas, it has modular heating elements and a blower motor control system that functions similarly in that it requires a signal to initiate heating. Resetting the system when it fails ensures proper operation and protects components.
Why a Furnace Igniter May Need Resetting
A furnace igniter may need a reset for several reasons:
-
Failed ignition attempt – in gas furnaces, a flame failed to establish
-
Safety lockout – repeated ignition failures trigger a system lockout
-
Power interruption – a temporary electrical fault may require a reset
-
High-limit or blower trips – safety switches prevent operation until reset
For the MBVK electric furnace, the analogous situation is when high-limit switches or blower motor protection activate, causing the furnace to stop heating until manually reset.
How to Reset Furnace Igniter
Resetting a furnace igniter involves the following steps. Safety is paramount:
Step 1: Turn Off Power
-
Shut off furnace power at the breaker panel
-
Ensure that all components have cooled before handling
Step 2: Locate the Igniter or Reset Button
-
On gas furnaces, the reset button is often near the burner assembly or control board
-
On electric furnaces like the MBVK, the high-limit reset switch is usually near the blower compartment
Step 3: Press the Reset Button
-
Hold the button for 5–10 seconds
-
Release and restore power
-
Observe the system attempting to ignite or heat
Step 4: Monitor Furnace Operation
-
Ensure the blower starts and heat strips engage
-
If the system fails to start, wait 10–15 minutes before trying again
-
Repeated failures may indicate a deeper issue requiring professional service
Goodman MBVK Electric Furnace Igniter Equivalent
While the MBVK does not have a flame igniter, it has critical components that require similar reset procedures:
-
High-limit switches – stop heating if temperature exceeds safe limits
-
Blower motor protection – prevents overheating of the ECM motor
-
Modular heat strips – staged for efficient heating
Resetting the furnace after a safety trip is equivalent to resetting a furnace igniter in a gas system, as it restores the system’s ability to deliver heat safely.
Common Causes of Igniter or Reset Trips
For Gas Furnaces
-
Faulty or dirty igniter
-
Gas valve not opening
-
Flame sensor issues
-
Repeated failed ignition attempts causing lockout
For Goodman MBVK Electric Furnace
-
Restricted airflow due to dirty filters
-
Blower motor overload or fault
-
High-limit switch tripping from heat buildup
-
Electrical issues in heat strip circuits
Understanding the root cause is crucial before pressing the reset button repeatedly.
Safety Considerations
-
Always turn off power before pressing a reset button
-
Do not bypass safety switches
-
Use insulated tools if working near electrical components
-
Consult a licensed HVAC technician if repeated resets are required
These safety precautions protect both the furnace and the homeowner.
Step-by-Step Reset for MBVK Electric Furnace
-
Turn off the main breaker feeding the furnace
-
Locate the high-limit or blower reset button near the blower compartment
-
Press and hold for 5–10 seconds
-
Release the button and restore power
-
Monitor operation to ensure blower and heat strips function normally
Proper reset procedures prevent damage to the furnace’s modular heat elements and ensure safety.
Maintenance Tips to Minimize Igniter or Reset Issues
-
Replace air filters regularly to maintain airflow
-
Clean blower motor and housing to prevent overheating
-
Inspect heat strips for wear or damage
-
Check control board connections and ensure they are secure
-
Schedule annual inspections to verify safe operation
Routine maintenance ensures the system rarely trips, reducing the need for repeated igniter or reset actions.
Troubleshooting Common Problems
MBVK Electric Furnace
-
Blower runs but no heat: Check high-limit switch and heat strips
-
Furnace trips immediately after reset: Inspect airflow, filters, and wiring
-
Noise or unusual smells: Turn off power and call a technician
Gas Furnace
-
Igniter fails to glow: Replace igniter and check flame sensor
-
Burner won’t ignite: Inspect gas supply and ignition transformer
-
Repeated lockouts: Professional inspection required
Understanding the Difference Between Resetting Igniter and Electric Furnace Reset
While gas furnaces have igniter reset procedures to restore flame initiation, electric furnaces like the Goodman MBVK use high-limit and blower resets to restore heat strip operation safely. Both procedures serve the same purpose: restoring heating safely after a trip caused by a fault or safety trigger.
When to Call a Professional
-
Multiple failed ignition or reset attempts
-
Repeated high-limit trips in electric furnaces
-
Unusual noises, smells, or sparks
-
Electrical issues in the furnace or control board
Professional service ensures safety, prevents further damage, and maintains efficiency. (ACCA)
Summary: Reset Furnace Igniter and Goodman MBVK Electric Furnace
Understanding how to reset a furnace igniter is essential for gas furnace homeowners, while MBVK electric furnace owners need to know the reset procedures for high-limit switches and blower motor protection. Key takeaways:
-
Reset buttons prevent damage and ensure safety
-
Press and hold reset buttons for 5–10 seconds
-
Identify and correct root causes before repeated resets
-
Regular maintenance reduces trips and prolongs system life
Whether dealing with a gas furnace igniter or the high-limit reset on a Goodman MBVK, following proper procedures keeps your home warm safely and reliably.
