What overall effect do cracks in the hot surface igniter material have?

Cracks in the hot surface igniter material are detrimental because they compromise the integrity and performance of the igniter. A hot surface igniter functions by reaching a specific temperature to create a glowing surface that ignites the gas-fueled burner. When cracks develop in the igniter, they can disrupt this heating process, leading to inconsistent or insufficient heating of the igniter surface. The result is that the igniter may fail to reach the necessary temperature to ignite the gas efficiently, which can ultimately lead to ignition failure.

This failure not only affects the immediate operation of the appliance but can also have broader implications, such as increased safety risks or potential damage to the equipment due to unburned gas. Thus, cracks can significantly hinder the igniter's functionality and reliability, making the understanding of this issue crucial for anyone working with gas appliances.