Dryer Ignition Systems

All GE, Hotpoint, and RCA dryers since 1973, have an automatic ignition system that uses a special glo-bar igniter. The igniter has no moving parts, and it saves energy by eliminating a gas-consuming standing pilot light. Gas is only used when the igniter is on.

The glo-bar will come on about 15 seconds after the gas dryer is started (similar to a cigarette lighter in a car). Once the glo-bar warms up enough, a sensor tells the gas valve to open and the gas is ignited by the bar.

For safety concerns, the gas will not be dispersed unless the glo-bar is working properly. Once the gas lights, the glo-bar cycles off. When it is time to cycle back on, the above process will take place again.