Ceramic igniter or steel igniter
A classic steel igniter typically needs several minutes to reach ignition temperature, while manufacturers of ceramic igniters state around one to one and a half minutes. The shorter heating time results in less strain at each start-up, and the ceramic withstands oxidation better than steel, so the service life is generally longer. In return, the ceramic models are more expensive and more sensitive to impacts.
In some stoves, a ceramic igniter can replace a steel igniter if the fitting and dimensions match, but the safest choice is the type the stove is built for. If you are unsure which type is fitted in your stove, the full range is grouped under igniters.
Round, flat, flange, Thread or sleeve
The round ceramic igniters consist of a narrow ignition surface with a diameter of 10.5 to 11.5 mm and a thicker base of around 17 mm. Some are fitted using only the base in a socket, while others have a flange or Thread, most often 3/8". For some stoves, the igniter is fitted via an igniter adapter with 3/8" Thread.
Ceramic igniters with a sleeve are located in a metal tube of 20 to 22 mm and are the longest in the range at up to 165 mm.
The flat ceramic igniters are of a completely different construction. The ignition element is a thin plate measuring 75 x 14.6 x 4.3 mm, used among others in stoves from Rika, Wamsler, Calimax and Zibro, and it only fits stoves built for the flat shape.
How to measure a ceramic igniter
The ignition surface and base each have their own diameter and must therefore be measured separately. First measure the diameter and length of the ignition surface and then of the base. One example from the range is an ignition surface of Ø11.5 x 78 mm with a base of Ø17 x 32.5 mm. Flat models are measured in length, width and thickness, and the wattage must match the old igniter. The universal models are grouped under custom-size igniter.
When replacing it, handle the igniter by the base. Ceramic is hard but brittle, so the ignition surface must neither be twisted nor pressed into place, and it must sit freely in the hole by the burn pot without being pinched.
Same stove, several names and versions
Several pellet stoves are sold under different brand names, and therefore also share igniters. Langå and Skagen have the same model names and the same ceramic igniters, and Hark and Kleining-Firefix use the same flat igniter for Savona. If your brand is not listed with a product, the model may therefore be found under another name.
Conversely, the same model name can cover several igniters. Heta Scan-Line Green 200 uses a round ceramic igniter in the first version and a ceramic one with a flange in the second version, and for Ravelli and Edilkamin, the serial number determines which igniter fits. The type plate on the back of the stove shows both model and serial number and is the safest basis for the choice.
