What is one major downside of the original hot surface igniters?

The major downside of the original hot surface igniters lies in their relatively short lifespan and fragility. These igniters, often made from materials like silicon carbide, are designed to reach high temperatures quickly to ignite gas burners. However, this rapid heating and cooling cycle can lead to thermal stress, which contributes to the deterioration of the igniter over time. As a result, they may fail after only a few heating cycles, necessitating replacement more frequently than other ignition systems.

Additionally, their fragile nature means they can be easily damaged during installation or maintenance. This fragility is often cited as a common issue among technicians, as even minor mishandling can result in cracks or breaks, rendering the igniter inoperable. Understanding these characteristics is crucial for recognizing the limitations of hot surface igniters in commercial food service equipment.