Is your home getting cold because your furnace won’t start? A pilot light that’s gone out is often the culprit. While you can always call Gilmore’s heater repair experts for assistance, you can often safely relight your pilot light on your own.
Before You Begin: Understanding Your Furnace’s Pilot Light
A pilot light is a small, continuous flame that ignites the gas in your furnace when the thermostat calls for heat. Not all furnaces have pilot lights – newer models often use electronic ignition. Before attempting to relight anything, check your furnace’s age and model. If it was made after 2010, it likely has electronic ignition instead of a pilot light.
Why Do Pilot Lights Go Out?
Your pilot light can stop working for several reasons. Strong drafts near your furnace can blow out the flame, especially in homes with older heating systems. A dirty pilot opening may block proper gas flow, preventing the flame from staying lit. Sometimes, a faulty thermocouple fails to sense the flame and cuts off the gas supply. Gas supply issues, including inconsistent pressure, can also cause your pilot light to fail unexpectedly.
Safety First: Before You Start
Before attempting to relight your furnace’s pilot light, take these important safety precautions:
- If you smell gas (like rotten eggs), stop immediately
- Open windows for ventilation
- Leave your home
- Call your gas company
Step-by-Step Guide to Relight Your Pilot Light
1. Find Your Pilot Light Assembly
Look for a small tube near the bottom of your furnace. You’ll see a gas valve marked with these settings:
- “On”
- “Off”
- “Pilot”
2. Prepare the Furnace
Turn the gas valve to “Off” and wait 5 minutes. This lets any built-up gas clear out safely.
3. Get Ready to Light
Turn the valve to “Pilot.” Find the reset button – it’s usually red and located nearby.
4. Light the Pilot
- Press and hold the reset button
- Hold a long lighter or match to the pilot light opening
- Keep holding the reset button for about 30 seconds after the pilot lights
- Release the button – the pilot should stay lit
5. Complete the Process
Turn the gas valve back to “On.” Your furnace should start working again.
Common Pilot Light Problems and Solutions
Flickering Pilot Light
A wavering pilot light often signals a draft problem or dirty burner. Check for nearby windows, doors, or vents that might create drafts. If the flame still flickers after eliminating drafts, your burner might need professional cleaning.
Yellow or Orange Flame
A healthy pilot light burns bright blue. If yours is yellow or orange, it indicates incomplete combustion and needs immediate attention. This could mean a dirty burner or improper gas pressure.
Pilot Won’t Stay Lit
When your pilot light goes out repeatedly, the thermocouple might be faulty. This safety device shuts off gas flow if it doesn’t sense a flame. A professional can test and replace this part if needed.
Signs Your Furnace Needs More Than a Pilot Light Fix
Sometimes a pilot light problem points to bigger furnace issues:
Age and Efficiency
If your furnace still uses a pilot light, it’s likely over 10 years old. Consider whether it’s time to upgrade to a more efficient model with electronic ignition.
Frequent Problems
When you’re relighting your pilot light monthly or even weekly, your furnace needs professional attention. Frequent issues often signal bigger problems developing.
Rising Energy Bills
A poorly functioning pilot light can waste gas and can increase your energy costs. If your bills keep climbing, schedule a professional inspection.
When to Call a Professional
Sometimes you need expert help. Call Gilmore’s heating pros if:
- The pilot won’t stay lit after several tries
- You smell gas at any point
- You feel unsure about any step
- Your furnace is older or unfamiliar to you
Understanding Furnace Safety Features
Modern gas furnaces have several safety features built around the pilot light:
Thermocouple
This device monitors your pilot light’s flame. If the flame goes out, the thermocouple cools and triggers the gas valve to close, preventing gas leaks.
Gas Valve
The gas control valve has multiple settings specifically designed for safe pilot light operation. Understanding these controls helps you manage your furnace safely.
Automatic Shutoff
Many furnaces have additional safety switches that cut gas flow if they detect problems. Never bypass these safety features – they protect your home.
When to Upgrade Your Furnace
If you’re constantly dealing with pilot light issues, consider these factors about upgrading:
Energy Savings
Newer furnaces with electronic ignition can save up to 10% on your heating bills compared to older pilot light models.
Improved Safety
Modern ignition systems eliminate the constant gas usage of standing pilot lights, reducing safety risks and gas consumption.
Better Performance
Today’s furnaces offer more reliable heating and often come with advanced features like smart thermostat compatibility.
Prevent Future Pilot Light Problems
Regular maintenance is key to keeping your pilot light working reliably. Schedule yearly furnace check-ups with a professional who can spot potential problems early. Keep the area around your furnace clean and free from dust or debris that could affect the pilot light. Have an expert check your gas pressure during annual maintenance to ensure proper flow. Most importantly, pay attention to any changes in how your furnace operates – catching small issues early can prevent bigger problems later.
Additional Pilot Light Safety Tips
Working with any gas appliance requires caution. Keep your carbon monoxide detector in good working order. Know where your main gas shutoff valve is located. Never use matches with frayed heads or lighters that are running low on fuel when lighting your pilot. If you have any doubts about the process, calling a professional is always the safest choice.
We’re Here to Help
While relighting a pilot light is often a simple task, your safety comes first. If you’re not comfortable doing it yourself or if your pilot light keeps going out, Gilmore’s expert technicians are ready to help. When you need professional gas heater repair in Sacramento, we’re just a phone call away.
Call us at 833-344-4515 for fast, professional service. We’ll get your heat working again quickly and safely.
