FAQ
TL;DR: Termet Termaq Electronic GE 19-02 can misfire intermittently ("it doesn't fire about every 4ā5 ignitions"), and users report "record video evidence." Priorities: warranty service, document failures, and check ignition electrode alignment. [Elektroda, John.D.Rush, post #16995822]
Why it matters: This FAQ helps owners diagnose intermittent ignition, talk to technicians, and decide safe next steps under warranty or post-warranty.
Quick Facts
- Typical symptom: 20ā25% misfires during use, sometimes with delayed ignition. [Elektroda, John.D.Rush, post #16995822]
- Batteries replaced often do not resolve intermittent sparking issues. [Elektroda, John.D.Rush, post #16994712]
- Under warranty: do not open the unit; request repair or replacement and keep video logs. [Elektroda, kasprzyk, post #16997795]
- Field fix reported: adjust/bend ignition electrode tip and gap (qualified service only). [Elektroda, Xaveri, post #17157672]
- Possible culprit flagged: servo valve with controllerāask service to test/replace. [Elektroda, kz61, post #16998758]
Why does my Termet GE 19-02 light sometimes and other times not at all?
Owners describe intermittent ignition: some starts succeed, some delay, and some fail completely. The pattern can vary by day. Battery swaps may not help. Causes include electrode alignment, gas valve control, or environmental draft effects. Document each failure and escalate through warranty if applicable. "Record videos as evidence" to support service visits. [Elektroda, John.D.Rush, post #16995822]
What should I say when the warranty tech visits?
State the misfire rate and show timestamped videos. Ask the tech to verify ignition electrode position, gap, and the servo valve/controller. Request a written checklist of what was inspected and adjusted. If intermittent faults persist, ask about device replacement per warranty terms. [Elektroda, kasprzyk, post #16997795]
Is it safe to adjust the ignition electrode myself?
Gas appliances demand trained service. One user reports success after slightly bending the electrode tip and setting the gap, but do not crush the ceramic. Treat this as technician-only work due to shock, gas leak, and misfire risks. [Elektroda, Xaveri, post #17157672]
What is the ignition electrode and why does it matter?
The ignition electrode creates the spark that lights the burner. If its tip angle or gap to the burner is off, the spark may not ignite gas reliably. Correct alignment can restore consistent lighting. A professional should set the gap and orientation. [Elektroda, Xaveri, post #17157672]
I changed the batteries but misfires continueāwhat next?
Battery replacement rules out weak supply, but intermittent faults can persist. Next steps include inspecting electrode position, verifying gas valve actuation, and reviewing venting conditions. Share videos of failures to guide diagnostics during service. [Elektroda, John.D.Rush, post #16994712]
Could weather or chimney draft cause the no-light condition?
Yes. Strong draft or adverse weather can disturb ignition and flame stability. If ignition does not occur after the expected delay, the issue is not only a suffocated flame. Ask the tech to assess draft and ventilation during diagnosis. [Elektroda, kasprzyk, post #16998406]
What is a servo valve in this heater?
A servo valve modulates gas flow under control of the electronics. If the valve or controller sticks or fails, ignition can be inconsistent. Ask the service center to bring a servo valve and controller for testing or swap. [Elektroda, kz61, post #16998758]
How common is the failure pattern in real use?
One documented case recorded four consecutive ignition tries: first OK, second delayed, third failed, fourth OK. This illustrates an intermittent profile and helps technicians replicate timing conditions. Keep similar logs for your unit. [Elektroda, John.D.Rush, post #16994712]
How do I escalate a warranty claim effectively?
- Collect clear videos of misfires with dates.
- Submit a service request asking for repair or replacement.
- During the visit, request written findings and the parts checked or replaced.
Follow up if the fault recurs after the visit. [Elektroda, kasprzyk, post #16997795]
What should out-of-warranty owners do?
Find a qualified gas technician familiar with this model. Share the manual and your videos. Ask to check ignition electrode alignment and evaluate the servo valve/controller. Document results for future reference. [Elektroda, gimak, post #19579218]
Is there a quick diagnostic I can observe without opening the case?
Yes. Note whether you hear the spark clicks and gas flow each attempt. Log which attempts light, delay, or fail. This timeline helps a technician isolate ignition, gas delivery, or control faults without unsafe user intervention. [Elektroda, John.D.Rush, post #16994712]
What evidence convinces service to replace the unit?
Consistent video proof of intermittent misfires, a written history of repeat service visits, and documented checks of ignition and gas control strengthen a replacement request. āRecord videos as evidenceā and submit them with your claim. [Elektroda, kasprzyk, post #16997795]
What if the unit lights fine for days, then suddenly fails?
Intermittent faults can pass brief tests, then recur later. Capture the failure when it happens and note ambient conditions. This edge case often points to borderline electrode positioning or a sticking valve/controller. [Elektroda, John.D.Rush, post #16995822]
Can electrode adjustment permanently fix the issue?
One user reported stable operation after bending the electrode toward the burner and setting the gap. Results can vary and may not address all causes. A technician should perform and verify combustion safety after any adjustment. [Elektroda, Xaveri, post #17157672]
Where can I get the user manual to help my technician?
A forum member shared that they have the manual for the same radiator model and attached it in the discussion. Bring the manual to your service appointment to speed diagnostics. [Elektroda, gimak, post #19579218]
Should I open the heater to photograph internal fittings?
No if under warranty. Opening can void coverage and poses safety risks. Instead, request that a technician document internal fittings and findings during a visit, and attach those to your claim. [Elektroda, kasprzyk, post #16997795]
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