Common Igniter Issues in the Breckwell P23 (And How To Fix Them)

Posted by Stove Parts Unlimited on Jun 17, 2025

Common Igniter Issues in the Breckwell P23 (And How To Fix Them)

Is your Breckwell P23 Sonora pellet stove refusing to light or taking forever to start? Chances are, the igniter is on its last legs. This small but mighty part is what gets the fire going, and like all hardworking components, it can burn out over time. The good news? Swapping it out is a DIY-friendly fix when you’ve got the right part and a little guidance.

The igniter in your Breckwell P23 Sonora pellet stove is responsible for heating up and igniting the pellets to start the fire. If the igniter fails, the stove won't light, leaving you without heat. Replacing a faulty igniter with the Breckwell & USSC Igniter Element (13-1140) restores your stove's ability to ignite pellets efficiently.

How Do You Know You Need a New Igniter?

Here are some signs indicating that your igniter may need replacement:

  • Stove Fails to Ignite: The stove feeds pellets but doesn't light.
  • No Glow: During startup, the igniter doesn't emit the usual orange glow.
  • Extended Ignition Time: The stove takes longer than usual to ignite.
  • Frequent Manual Starts: You find yourself manually lighting the stove more often.

If you observe any of these issues, it's likely time to replace the igniter. It’s easy to confirm if you need a new igniter by following our simple benchtesting steps in this Help Article:

Troubleshooting a Pellet Stove Igniter

 Common Mistakes to Avoid During Igniter Replacement:

Replacing the igniter is simple, but here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

  • Not Unplugging the Stove: Always disconnect the stove from power before beginning any repairs to avoid electrical hazards.
  • Incorrect Igniter Placement: Ensure the new igniter is properly seated and secured to function correctly.
    Damaging Wires: Handle wires carefully to prevent damage or disconnection, which can cause the igniter to malfunction.
    Skipping Cleaning:  Be sure to clean the burn pot and surrounding areas before replacement to ensure optimal performance.
  • Forgetting to Check Connections: After installation, double-check all connections before powering the stove back on.

What Customers Are Saying:

Customers who have purchased the Breckwell & USSC Igniter Element (13-1140) have shared positive feedback:

"Perfect, exactly what we needed.” - Cyntia W., Verified Customer

"Fits and works great.” - Bruce, W., Verified Customer

One customer advised that the spade connectors can be tight, so it is important to adjust and check all connections. Overall, the 13-1140 igniter is reliable and effective at restoring stove functionality.

Need Assistance?

If you're unsure about the replacement process or need help identifying the correct part for your stove, our experienced technicians are always here to assist you. Fill out our Parts Request Form with your stove's make and model, and we'll guide you through the process.

Replacing the igniter in your Breckwell P23 Sonora is a solid, hands-on fix that puts you back in control of your home’s heat. With the right part and a steady approach, you’ll have that stove firing up like it should with this simple, straightforward replacement solution.