The Corona Boiler Pilot Light Problem: Why Modern Electronic Ignition Systems Are Failing More Often Than Traditional Pilots in 2025

Why Your Corona Boiler’s Electronic Ignition System May Be Failing More Often Than Traditional Pilot Lights in 2025

If you’re a Corona homeowner dealing with repeated boiler ignition failures, you’re not alone. Modern boilers require a precise mixture of gas and air to ignite the fuel, and this common issue affects thousands of UK households each year, with similar problems occurring across the United States. While electronic ignition systems were designed to be more efficient and reliable than traditional pilot lights, many homeowners are discovering that these advanced systems may actually be failing more frequently than their older counterparts.

The Rise of Electronic Ignition Problems

Modern boilers often use electronic ignition systems instead of standing pilot lights, but many homes in the Lower Mainland still rely on the traditional pilot light design. Electronic ignition systems only light the burner when needed, which can enhance energy efficiency and reduce fuel consumption, making them a popular choice for modern water heating solutions. However, these systems come with their own set of challenges.

When your boiler displays an ‘ignition lockout’ message, it means that the system attempted to ignite the burner but failed to do so safely. This could be due to a problem with the gas supply, spark electrode, flame sensor, or even the printed circuit board (PCB). If your boiler attempts to start but consistently goes into lockout, possible causes include faulty igniter or pilot assembly, gas pressure problems, improper air-to-fuel ratio, blocked or dirty burner, failed flame sensor, or the control itself has failed. This condition requires professional diagnosis to identify the root cause.

Common Electronic Ignition Failures in 2025

Several factors contribute to the increased failure rate of electronic ignition systems:

  • Flame Sensor Issues: Your boiler uses a flame sensor (also known as an ionisation probe) to detect whether the burner has lit correctly. If it’s dirty or faulty, the system might think the flame hasn’t ignited, leading to boiler ignition lockout.
  • Ignition Lead Problems: If the ignition leads that provide the spark are worn out, the boiler won’t light properly. Similarly, a failed spark generator will prevent ignition and cause an ignition lockout fault.
  • Control Board Malfunctions: If you have a newer furnace or heating system, a malfunctioning control board might be the cause of your pilot light issues. The control board manages the ignition process, and if it’s not working properly, it could prevent the pilot light from coming on. In this case, you’ll need a professional to inspect and replace the control board if necessary.
  • Environmental Factors: In cold temperatures, the condensate pipe can freeze and block, preventing waste gases from escaping. When this happens, your boiler automatically enters ignition lockout to avoid damage.

Why Traditional Pilot Lights May Be More Reliable

While pilot lights are considered analog ignition and tend to waste energy by constantly burning gas, coupled with their unreliability, this led to the use of electronic ignition systems, some homeowners find traditional systems more dependable. The burner I have with pilot has the advantage that the boiler will still function during a power outage. That would not be the case if I were to replace it with one having electronic ignition. Because of this, and by manually opening valves in my hydronic heating system, I have been able to keep the house warm during a power outage.

A typical pilot light burns about 600 BTUs of gas per hour, which adds up to roughly 432,000 BTUs per month and can make a noticeable dent in your gas bill. For older boiler systems, however, this continuous burn is necessary for reliability, as there’s no other way to ignite the main burner when you need heat.

Professional Solutions for Corona Homeowners

When dealing with persistent ignition problems, it’s crucial to work with experienced professionals. For Corona area residents experiencing boiler issues, seeking expert boiler repair corona services can ensure proper diagnosis and lasting solutions.

Improper combustion caused by failing ignition controls wastes fuel. A boiler operating at 70% efficiency instead of 85% due to combustion problems can waste $300-500 or more per heating season, depending on fuel costs and usage. Delayed ignition and hard starts caused by control problems damage heat exchangers, refractory, and other expensive boiler components. Replacing a cracked heat exchanger costs thousands of dollars—far more than the ignition control and maintenance combined.

Maintenance and Prevention

Regular maintenance is the best way to prevent ignition lockout and ensure your boiler runs smoothly year-round. Schedule annual servicing: A yearly inspection by a Gas Safe engineer keeps all components clean and functioning correctly. You should inspect pilot ignition cables at least every three months to ensure they are firmly connected. Also, check for any cracks, which could sever the connection or allow it to ground out early, which could explain any tripped fuses. Regardless of any faults, these cables should be replaced annually as part of your routine maintenance schedule.

Additional preventive measures include:

  • Regular cleaning of flame sensors and ignition components
  • Checking gas pressure and ensuring proper ventilation
  • Monitoring for signs of wear in electrical components
  • Ensuring proper system pressure and bleeding radiators as needed

When to Call for Professional Help

If your pilot light still won’t light or stay lit after these steps, it’s time to call a professional. While relighting a boiler pilot light can be a DIY task, some situations are best left to the experts. Most seriously, ignition control malfunctions can create carbon monoxide hazards. This invisible, odorless gas kills hundreds and sickens thousands annually. Proper maintenance and control operation are essential for preventing this deadly threat.

While electronic ignition systems offer energy efficiency benefits, their complexity can lead to more frequent failures compared to traditional pilot lights. Corona homeowners experiencing repeated ignition problems should prioritize professional maintenance and consider the long-term costs of both systems when making decisions about boiler repairs or replacements. Regular professional service not only prevents costly breakdowns but ensures your family’s safety throughout the heating season.