How to Relight a Pilot Light on a Furnace: A Step-by-Step Guide
As the onset of winter approaches, reliance on heating systems becomes rampant. One of the main components of a furnace responsible for igniting the Burner is the Pilot light. However, it doesn’t always work as one would expect. If that happens, don’t take it as a minor breakdown; instead, follow step-by-step instructions to quickly relight the pilot Light. In this article we will guide you on **How to(relight a pilot light (on a furnace.
before we dive into the re-lighting process, familiarize yourself with the term "pilot light pilot light is a small candle-like flame that lights" the main burner, burning fuel (natural gas** or propane)." It’s a safety design feature that prevents accidental flares and ensures proper combustible gas mixture for heat generation.
What Prevents the Pilot Light to Stay Lit?
Reasons for pilot light (failure) can be multifold:
• Condensation: Moisture creeps into the pilot light line, causing the pilot Assembly to rust, making **it difficultto stay lit.
• Inadequate air supply Inadequate air supply prevent the pilot light from combusting properly.
• Worn-out pilot light Assy. Worn-out the pilot light assembly might Not be able to sustain enough flame to ignite the secondary burner.
• Crossover issues Crossover issues related to the gas supply prevent the pilot light from Lighting.
• Dirty pilot **assembly: Corrosion and grimes on the pilot light body and pilot orifice Cause the pilot light to quench.
**How To Relight a Pilot light on a Furnace?`
Step 1) Turn off the shut-off valve: TURN OFF THE SHUTOFF VALVE before even attempting to relight any pilot light. This important step prevents accidental gas emission and ensures safety. In most cases, this valve is located closer to the furnace or around the gas line. The valve should be fully closed to ensure pressure release.
Step2) Check and restore air supply: ENsure the pilot light *assembly is clear of airborne debris and grime for proper airflow. Locate the pilot light window* (if present: usually a small glass-like cover) and flick it off/. This will help disqualify any airborne debris .**. Use as brush or a soft object to clean the area Around the pilot light.
Forced-air systems might obstruct airflow. In this
case, check your intake vents for blockages Like leaves, twigs), or debris.
table: Common Pilot Light Problem and Solutions
| Category | Problem | Solution Steps |
|---|---|---|
| Ignition | Pilot light unable to stay lit | – Check for condensation |
– Clean pilot light Area
– Inspect pilo Assembly for corrosion
| Air supply | Restrictive airflow | clean pilot light Area
-check intake vents for blockages} |
| Pilot Assembly Malfunction | Worn-in pilot light | Ins spect pilot light Assy.
-install new pilot light assembly }
| Crossover issues and gas supply | Pilot pilot light unable to Light-up | Check crossover valve functioning
– Check gas Meter for proper supply} and pressure |
Step 1) Locate **the pilot switch: Identify if your furnace has a thermal cutoff switch. Its usually located near the Igniter or burner area The switch is usually a thin, flat metal strip surrounded by a small metal canister. Check your Installation manual for the exact*location.
StepIV) Turn off Electric power: Un**plug the furnace or flick the circuit breaker to separate the furnace from the** power supply. Ensuring safety during the
StepV) Hold the pilot light ASSEMBLY (Not the pilot light itself to the pilot orifice), and GENTALLY press the "Reset" button in the pilot light Assembly this will allow the pilot lighter to flow gas into THE pilot light.
Wait for 1-60 seconds to allow it to fill up the reservoir. Don’t start the pilot light yet – wait for the proper alignment.
StepVS) Light the Gas: Use a Pilot Light Lighter which is usually included with some furnaces or purchasedseparately. You cn also use a propane kitchen torch or a handheld portable lighter. Hold the flaming source GENTIANLY against the pilot light Assembly **FACING THE PILOT LI GHT ORIFIC***
StepVI) Relight the Pilot Light with the flaming source: Ensure the pilot light STARTS TO BURN AND STAYS LIT HOLD THE FLAMING GENTLY FOR ABOUT TO SECONDS TO ALLOW SETTLE
Verifying the Pilot Light Operations
- Tighten the pilot lit Assembly: GEE the pilot light*Assembly to the pilot and orifice.
2.check the pilot light: You should see a LIT PILOT LIGHT PROPERLY FUNCTIONING TO IGNITE THE BUNNER.
3Verify the furnace operation: Now that the pilot light. is lit, ensure Proper furnace operation by monitoring It for any signs of distress or malfunction.
Re-lighting a Pilot Ignition: Final Checklist –
- Ensure SHUT-OriF VALVE IS TRULY CLOSED
· CHECK AND RESTROKE AIR SUPPLY
¨ CLEAN PIROIT LIGHT AREA
; CHECK FOR CONCONDENSATION
¨ ‘CHECK PILOT LIGHT THERMAL CUT-OJF SWITCH (IF AVALABLE)
· Plug in the furnace and set the thermostat to OPERATIONAL TEMPERATURE
There you have it – In this article, we navigated the steps for, **How to Rel Light a Pilot Light on.a Furnace. Re-lighting a pilot
light is a simple proces, but it requires Some caution and attention to detailing. By following the directions outlined above, you cn successfully relight yourPilot light and enjoy warmer temperatures in your home*
