How to Light a Goodman Furnace Pilot Light: A Step-by-Step Guide
A Goodman furnace is designed to provide efficient and reliable heating to your home, but it requires a functional pilot light to ignite the main burner. If the pilot light goes out, your furnace will not work, and you’ll need to relight it to restore heat to your home. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to light a Goodman furnace pilot light safely and effectively.
Pre-Lighting Checks
Before attempting to light the pilot light, make sure to perform the following checks:
- Check the pilot light assembly: Ensure the pilot light assembly is not damaged or clogged.
- Check the fuel supply: Verify that the gas supply is turned on and there are no leaks.
- Check the thermocouple: The thermocouple should be clean and free of debris.
- Check the pilot light orifice: The orifice should be clear of debris and corrosion.
Lighting the Pilot Light
To light the pilot light, follow these steps:
- Turn off the gas supply: Locate the gas valve and turn it to the "off" position. This will prevent any gas from flowing to the pilot light.
- Remove the pilot light orifice cover: You’ll find the orifice cover on the side of the furnace. Remove it to access the pilot light assembly.
- Use a long match or lighter: Hold the match or lighter near the pilot light orifice, keeping the flame away from the furnace’s internal components.
- Light the pilot light: Gently squeeze the pilot light button and hold the flame near the orifice until the pilot light ignites. Keep the flame in the orifice for about 30 seconds to 1 minute to ensure a stable flame.
- Release the pilot light button: Once the pilot light is lit, release the button and let it stabilize for a few seconds.
- Replace the orifice cover: Put the orifice cover back in place to prevent debris from entering the pilot light assembly.
- Turn on the gas supply: Turn the gas valve to the "on" position.
Tips and Troubleshooting
- Use a timer: If the pilot light goes out frequently, try using a timer to simulate the pilot light’s duty cycle.
- Clean the pilot light assembly: Regularly clean the pilot light assembly to prevent clogging and ensure proper functioning.
- Check the thermocouple: Make sure the thermocouple is clean and free of debris to ensure proper detection of the pilot light.
- Check for drafts: Ensure there are no drafts or air leaks in the area that could extinguish the pilot light.
- Consult the manual: If you’re still having trouble lighting the pilot light, consult your Goodman furnace’s user manual for specific instructions.
Common Issues and Solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Pilot light won’t stay lit | Check the thermocouple, pilot light orifice, and gas supply for any issues. |
| Pilot light keeps going out | Check for drafts or air leaks in the area. |
| Pilot light won’t light | Ensure the gas supply is turned on and the pilot light assembly is clean and free of debris. |
Conclusion
Lighting a Goodman furnace pilot light is a relatively simple process, but it requires attention to detail and proper maintenance to ensure safe and efficient operation. By following the steps outlined in this article and performing regular checks, you’ll be able to keep your pilot light running smoothly and your furnace in good working condition.
