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When the heating cycle starts, this part heats up until it glows. The gas valve then opens, and the hot surface lights the gas to heat your home.
Specifications
- Part number: 2400-286
- Brand: Bradford White
- Part type: Water heater ignitor with gasket
- Height: 3.3 in / 8.38 cm
- Length: 12.7 in / 32.26 cm
- Width: 6.4 in / 16.26 cm
- Volts: must be the same, often 120 V
- Material: silicon carbide or nitride, as listed
- Shape and mount: must fit the same bracket
From the maker's and parts sellers' listings for this number. Compare them with the label on your old part.
How an Igniter Works
An igniter is a vital heating component. It heats up to light the gas. If it is cracked or worn, the furnace tries to start but never lights.
Most furnace hot surface igniters run on 120 V, while some use 80 V. These two voltage ratings are not interchangeable. Igniters can be made of silicon carbide or silicon nitride. Silicon nitride igniters last longer than silicon carbide igniters. Both types are very brittle and require gentle handling.
Understanding the 2400-286 Specifications
Replacing an igniter requires matching the exact physical sizing so it mounts securely in the burner assembly.
The Bradford White 2400-286 igniter has the following dimensions:
- Height: 3.3 in / 8.38 cm
- Length: 12.7 in / 32.26 cm
- Width: 6.4 in / 16.26 cm
Signs of Failure and Safe Replacement
When an igniter fails, the heating system will usually call for heat, but no flame will appear. You might see the igniter fail to glow at all, or a visual inspection may show a visible break across the heating element.
Handle with care when installing a new igniter. Igniters are brittle. Do not touch the glowing element with your fingers. Skin oil can shorten its life.
Follow these simple steps when working on the unit:
- Turn off power at the circuit breaker and shut off the gas supply line.
- Take a photo of every wire before removing the old part so you have a clear reference.
- Carefully remove the mounting screws holding the old igniter bracket in place.
- Move wires one at a time to the same spots on the new part.
- Mount the new assembly securely, taking care not to touch the element surface.
Read your old part
- Turn off the power and access the burner compartment.
- Locate the label or stamped part number on your existing igniter or its mounting bracket.
- Verify that the number clearly reads 2400-286.
- Check that the voltage is the same, often 120 V.
- Confirm that the material matches, such as silicon carbide or nitride as listed.
- Check that the shape and mount fit the same bracket.
When to call a pro
Hire a licensed HVAC technician for any step you are not sure you can do safely. Gas valve work means opening gas lines and setting gas pressure, and a licensed tech should handle it.
Questions
Can I touch the igniter element with bare hands?
No, you should not touch the element. Igniters are brittle, and skin oil left on the surface can shorten the part's life. Always hold the part by its base or bracket.
What happens if an igniter wears out or cracks?
If the igniter is cracked or worn, the furnace tries to start but never lights. The heating cycle will not complete because the gas cannot be ignited.
What should I do if I notice the smell of gas?
If you smell gas, do not touch any electrical switch. Leave the house immediately and call your gas company from outside.
Are all furnace igniters interchangeable?
No, they are not interchangeable. Most furnace hot surface igniters run on 120 V, but some use 80 V. The voltage, material, and bracket shape must match your system.
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