Stop Your Furnace Pilot Light From Going Out With This Quick Fix
Having to repeatedly relight your furnace pilot light can be extremely frustrating, especially during cold winter months when you rely on your furnace for heat. But don't worry - in many cases, pilot light problems can be easily fixed with some basic troubleshooting and maintenance.
Symptoms of a Faulty Furnace Pilot Light
How can you tell if your furnace pilot light is having issues? Here are some typical symptoms:
- The pilot light repeatedly goes out
- The main burner fails to ignite when heat is called for
- No warm air comes from the vents despite the furnace running
- A faint gas smell in the house
If you notice any of these, it likely means the pilot light is having trouble staying lit. Let's look at some potential causes and solutions.
Main Causes of Pilot Light Problems
Dirty Pilot Light Opening
One of the most common reasons for a furnace pilot light going out is a dirty pilot opening. Dust, soot, and other debris can build up around the opening over time. This restricts the amount of gas that can reach the pilot flame, causing it to be extinguished.
Carefully use compressed air or a thin needle to gently clean out the pilot light opening. Just take care not to damage the thermocouple sensor which is normally located nearby.
Faulty Thermocouple
The thermocouple plays an important safety role in gas furnaces. This device generates a small electrical current when heated by the pilot flame. If the pilot goes out, the drop in electrical signal causes the gas valve to shut off to avoid a dangerous gas leak.
If the thermocouple is dirty, corroded, or misaligned, it may fail to detect the pilot flame correctly. This triggers the furnace to shut off the gas supply, causing the pilot light to go out repeatedly.
Try cleaning the thermocouple contacts with fine steel wool. If that doesn't help, you'll likely need to replace the faulty thermocouple. Make sure the new one is properly positioned in the flame path.
Drafts and Air Currents
Since furnace pilot flames are quite small and fragile, they can be easily blown out by flowing air. Sources of drafts like attics, basements, or leaky windows near the furnace allow enough air movement to disturb the flame.
Listen and feel around the furnace area for any noticeable drafts. Seal openings, improve insulation, and install plastic on drafty windows to protect the pilot light from gusts of air.
Leaky Furnace Ducts
Gaps or detached ductwork near your furnace can also create enough air leaks to interfere with the pilot flame. Air blown through leaky joints and seams can cause continual pilot light outages.
Inspect all ducts closely and use metal HVAC tape to fully seal joints. This prevents air from whistling through and disrupting your temperamental pilot light.
When to Call a Professional
If you've tried the troubleshooting tips above and your furnace pilot light still won't stay lit, it's a good idea to call in an HVAC technician. A pro can assess if there are any underlying issues with the gas control valve, ignition system, or heat exchanger.
Likewise, if you have any safety concerns about possible gas leaks or carbon monoxide, always reach out to a qualified furnace repair company right away.
Having to constantly relight your furnace pilot can certainly be a headache. But in many cases, the problem is caused by something simple like a dirty thermocouple or pilot opening.
Try starting with some easy DIY solutions like cleaning the pilot assembly or sealing drafts near the furnace. However, for any complex or persistent pilot light issues, don't hesitate to call in a furnace repair professional for assistance.
With some basic maintenance and troubleshooting, you can get your faulty furnace pilot light working properly again and keep your home comfortably warm all winter long.
Here are some other potential issues that could cause frequent pilot light outages:
1. Old age of the pilot assembly: Over time, the pilot assembly can become worn out or damaged, causing it to malfunction and go out frequently. If your furnace is older than 15 years, it may be time to replace the pilot assembly to prevent frequent pilot light outages.
2. Low gas pressure: If the gas pressure in your furnace is too low, it can affect the pilot light's ability to stay lit. Check your furnace's gas pressure regulator to ensure it is set to the correct level.
3. Faulty pilot assembly valve: The pilot assembly valve is responsible for regulating the flow of gas to the pilot light. If this valve is faulty, it can lead to the pilot light going out frequently. Check the valve for any signs of damage or wear, and replace it if necessary.
4. Clogged pilot assembly: If the pilot assembly becomes clogged with debris or dust, it can prevent the pilot light from staying lit. Use a small brush or compressed air to clean the assembly and remove any obstructions.
5. Faulty ignition system: If the ignition system in your furnace is faulty, it can fail to properly light the pilot, resulting in repeat outages. A technician can diagnose and repair any issues with the ignition control system.