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Your furnace’s pilot light is an important part of the furnace’s proper function. When the furnace is activated, when heat is needed, gas is released to the furnace’s main burner and is ignited by the pilot light’s flame.
The pilot light should always be burning, but sometimes it does go out. In this blog post, we’ll discuss how to reignite a pilot light that’s gone out, what causes pilot lights to go out, and when it’s time to call an expert for assistance.
How To Reignite Your Pilot Light
It’s very important that you follow the proper steps for reigniting the pilot light. The gas itself is potentially dangerous and is, of course, flammable. If the cause is more serious than a drafty furnace, you should have it serviced by a professional.
Usually, all you need for reigniting the pilot light can be found on the front of the furnace unit. This includes controls, the pilot light assembly, and instructions. If you’re unable to find the manufacturer’s instructions, follow these steps:
- Find the pilot light assembly. This includes a gas valve with a reset button and settings for On, Off, and Pilot.
- Turn the gas valve to the Off position.
- Wait several minutes.
- Turn the gas valve to the Pilot position.
- Hold a long-lit lighter or match to the pilot opening while pressing the pilot reset button.
- Keep the rest button pressed until the flame is lit and burning strongly.
- Release the reset button and turn the gas valve to the On position.
- If these steps don’t work, turn the gas valve to the Off position and call for service.
Contact us online or call 513-899-6005 for help or around-the-clock emergency repair near Morrow, OH.
What Causes a Pilot Light To Go Out?
Pilot lights blow out for a few possible reasons. You might be able to correct the problem yourself in some cases, though some require professional service.
- Dirty pilot orifice: If the pilot flame burns a weak yellow instead of blue when you reignite the pilot light, the problem may be a dirty pilot orifice. Call Rick’s Heating & Cooling for professional service.
- Draft: A sudden or steady rush of air can easily blow out the standing pilot light. Once it’s relit, check the surrounding area for the source of the draft to prevent it from happening again.
- Faulty thermocouple: If the pilot light repeatedly goes out, the furnace’s thermocouple may need replacing. When this flame sensor fails, gas continues to flow even if the pilot light has been extinguished. This is a safety hazard and requires immediate professional repair.
Why and When To Call an Expert?
Pilot light issues can develop into serious safety-related problems. The potential for fire or gas poisoning can grow from seemingly small issues. Call for professional service if:
- The pilot light won’t relight
- The pilot light repeatedly goes out
- You smell the rotten egg smell associated with escaping gas
Call Rick’s Heating and Cooling at (513) 899-6005 or contact us online for furnace repair and heating services in the Cincinnati, OH, area.
Why Trust Rick’s Heating and Cooling as Your HVAC Experts for Your Cincinnati Home?
Since 1986, Rick’s Heating and Cooling has provided the Cincinnati area with superior HVAC repair workmanship and outstanding customer service. We’re the HVAC experts you can trust!
To learn more about HVAC services from Rick’s Heating & Cooling in the Cincinnati area, call (513) 899-6005.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pilot Lights and Furnaces
Is it dangerous if the pilot light goes out on a furnace?
A pilot light going out is not always dangerous, but it should be addressed quickly. Most modern furnaces include safety features that shut off the gas supply if the pilot flame goes out. However, if you smell gas or cannot safely relight the pilot light, you should contact an HVAC professional immediately.
Why does a furnace pilot light go out?
A furnace pilot light can go out for several reasons, including drafts blowing out the flame, a dirty pilot orifice, or a failing thermocouple. If the pilot light repeatedly goes out, it usually indicates a mechanical issue that should be inspected by a technician.
What should I do if my furnace pilot light goes out?
If your furnace pilot light goes out, turn the gas valve to the Off position and wait several minutes before attempting to relight it. Follow the instructions on the furnace panel or manufacturer guidelines. If the flame will not stay lit, professional furnace repair may be required.
Does gas still flow if the pilot light goes out?
Most modern furnaces use a thermocouple that automatically shuts off the gas supply when the pilot light goes out. This safety feature prevents gas from leaking into your home. If the thermocouple fails, however, the system may require professional service.
What causes a pilot light to keep going out?
A pilot light that repeatedly goes out is commonly caused by a faulty thermocouple, buildup in the pilot assembly, airflow drafts near the furnace, or gas pressure problems. Routine furnace maintenance can help identify and prevent these issues.
Can I relight my furnace pilot light myself?
Many homeowners can safely relight a furnace pilot light by following the instructions printed on the furnace or in the owner’s manual. If the pilot light will not stay lit or you smell gas, stop immediately and call a professional HVAC technician.
Helpful Furnace Resources for Homeowners
- When To Schedule a Furnace Tune-Up in Cincinnati, OH
- Gas vs. Oil Furnaces: Which Is Right for Your Home?
- Common Gas Furnace Problems & How To Fix Them
- Time To Replace Your Furnace? Signs Your Heat Exchanger May Be Failing
Keep your family safe and comfortable all winter long. If your pilot light keeps going out or your furnace isn’t working properly, trust the experts at Rick’s Heating & Cooling. Call us today or schedule service online!
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