Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) G3 Practice Exam

An appliance which incorporates a glow bar has a __________ ignition system.

1. Standing

2. Spark

3. Manual

4. Hot surface

The correct answer is: Hot surface

An appliance that incorporates a glow bar utilizes a hot surface ignition system. This type of ignition relies on a heated element, specifically the glow bar, which reaches high temperatures to ignite the gas once it is released. The glow bar effectively acts as its own ignition source by heating up to a point where it can ignite the gas mixture safely and efficiently. In this context, a hot surface ignition system is preferred for appliances requiring reliable ignition while minimizing the risk of failure. It contrasts with spark ignition systems, which use electrical sparks to ignite the mixture. Manual ignition systems require user intervention to light the appliance, often with a match or lighter, and standing ignition systems involve maintaining a continuous flame to light the new gas flow, which is less common in modern appliances due to safety considerations. By focusing on the characteristics and mechanisms of the hot surface ignition system, it is clear how a glow bar operates within this framework to ensure safe and effective ignition in gas appliances.