The electronic ignitor spark generator provides a spark of what voltage to ignite the oil?

• A. 6,000 volts
• B. 10,000 volts
• C. 14,000 volts
• D. 28,000 volts

Answer: (C)

The spark that ignites the oil must be strong enough to jump the gap between the electrodes and ionize the air-fuel mixture. An electronic igniter in oil burners is designed to produce a high-voltage spark, and a typical, reliable level for this application is about 14,000 volts. This voltage is sufficient to arc across the electrode gap under normal conditions, creating the ionized path needed to ignite the oil-air mixture. Lower voltages, like 6,000 or 10,000 volts, may not consistently bridge the gap, especially if the gap size or air quality varies. Much higher voltages, such as 28,000 volts, aren’t necessary for standard ignition and can put extra stress on insulating components. So 14,000 volts strikes the right balance for reliable ignition in this system.