How to Relight Pilot Light Furnace: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you experiencing issues with your furnace’s pilot light? Do you need to know how to relight it? Look no further! In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide on how to relight your pilot light furnace. With these easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be able to troubleshoot and relight your pilot light in no time.
What is a Pilot Light?
Before we dive into the process of relighting your pilot light, let’s briefly explain what a pilot light is. A pilot light is a small flame that ignites the main burner in your furnace. Its primary function is to maintain a consistent temperature and provide a steady flow of fuel to the furnace. A pilot light is usually found at the base of the furnace and is typically between 1-2 inches in diameter.
Symptoms of a Faulty Pilot Light
Before you start relighting your pilot light, it’s essential to identify the symptoms of a faulty pilot light. Here are some common signs that your pilot light might be malfunctioning:
- Inconsistent heating: If your furnace is not producing consistent heat, it could be a sign of a faulty pilot light.
- No heat at all: If your furnace is not producing any heat, it could be due to a faulty pilot light.
- Pilot light not lighting: If the pilot light is not lighting, it could be a sign of a faulty igniter or a blockage in the pilot light orifice.
How to Relight Pilot Light Furnace
Relighting a pilot light furnace is a relatively simple process. However, it’s essential to follow the correct steps to ensure your safety and avoid any potential damage to your furnace. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to relight your pilot light furnace:
Contents
Step 1: Turn Off the Gas Supply
Before you start relighting your pilot light, it’s essential to turn off the gas supply to your furnace. This is a crucial step to avoid any accidents or potential explosions. You can usually find the gas shut-off valve near the furnace or near the gas line.
- Turn the valve clockwise: Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the gas supply. You should hear a distinct "click" sound when the valve is turned off.
Step 2: Wait for 5 Minutes
Once you’ve turned off the gas supply, wait for 5 minutes to allow any remaining gas to dissipate. This is a critical step to ensure your safety and avoid any potential explosions.
Step 3: Check the Pilot Light Orifice
The pilot light orifice is the small opening where the pilot light is located. Check the orifice to ensure it’s clean and free of debris. Use a small brush or cloth to clean out any dirt or debris that may be blocking the orifice.
- Use a toothbrush: If the orifice is clogged with debris, use a toothbrush to gently clean out the blockage.
Step 4: Relight the Pilot Light
Once the orifice is clean, you’re ready to relight the pilot light. You’ll need to use the igniter button or pilot light knob to relight the pilot light. Here are the steps:
- Press the igniter button: Press the igniter button or pilot light knob to release a small amount of gas into the orifice.
- Light the pilot light: Hold a lit match or lighter to the orifice, and gently blow out the match or lighter. This will ignite the pilot light.
- Adjust the pilot light: Adjust the pilot light to ensure it’s burning steadily and evenly.
Step 5: Turn On the Gas Supply
Once the pilot light is relit, you can turn on the gas supply to your furnace. Turn the gas shut-off valve counterclockwise to restore the gas supply.
- Turn the valve counterclockwise: Turn the valve counterclockwise to restore the gas supply. You should hear a distinct "click" sound when the valve is turned back on.
Step 6: Test the Furnace
Once you’ve relit the pilot light and turned on the gas supply, test the furnace to ensure it’s working properly. Check to see if the furnace is producing consistent heat and that the pilot light is burning steadily.
Common Problems and Solutions
While relighting a pilot light furnace is a relatively simple process, there are some common problems that can occur. Here are some common issues and their solutions:
- Pilot light won’t light: Check the pilot light orifice for debris or blockages. Use a small brush or cloth to clean out any debris that may be blocking the orifice.
- Pilot light is blowing out: Check the furnace’s air filter to ensure it’s clean and not clogged. Replace the air filter if necessary.
- Pilot light is not burning steadily: Check the pilot light orifice for debris or blockages. Use a small brush or cloth to clean out any debris that may be blocking the orifice.
Conclusion
Relighting a pilot light furnace is a relatively simple process that requires some basic troubleshooting and maintenance. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to relight your pilot light furnace and ensure your furnace is working properly. Remember to always follow safety precautions when working with gas appliances, and never attempt to relight a pilot light without turning off the gas supply first.
