What common issue can cause intermittent operation of hot surface ignition systems?

The intermittent operation of hot surface ignition systems is frequently associated with cracks in the hot surface igniter material. These igniters operate by heating up until they reach a temperature sufficient to ignite the gas. When cracks develop in the igniter, it can lead to inconsistent heating and reduced functionality, as the cracks may cause the igniter to break down or fail to reach the necessary temperature for proper operation. This malfunction results in the ignition system not consistently being able to ignite the gas, leading to intermittent operation. It is crucial to regularly inspect hot surface igniters for physical damage to ensure they operate reliably.