How to Restart a Furnace Pilot Light: A Step-by-Step Guide
As the winter months approach, it’s essential to ensure that your furnace is functioning properly to keep your home warm and cozy. One common issue that can arise is a blown pilot light, which can leave you without heat during the coldest days of the year. In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to restart a furnace pilot light, helping you to get your heat back up and running in no time.
Why Does the Pilot Light Go Out?
Before we dive into the steps to restart the pilot light, it’s essential to understand why it might go out in the first place. Some common reasons include:
- Dirty or clogged pilot light orifice: Debris, dirt, or corrosion can block the pilot light orifice, preventing the flame from igniting.
- Low gas pressure: Insufficient gas pressure can make it difficult for the pilot light to stay lit.
- Faulty thermocouple: The thermocouple is responsible for sensing the pilot light’s presence and shutting off the gas supply when it’s not lit. A faulty thermocouple can prevent the pilot light from staying lit.
- Pilot light adjustment: Improper pilot light adjustment can cause the flame to be too small or too large, leading to the pilot light going out.
How to Restart a Furnace Pilot Light
Restarting a furnace pilot light is a relatively simple process, but it requires attention to detail and caution. Follow these steps to ensure a successful restart:
Contents
- 1 Step 1: Turn Off the Furnace
- 2 Step 2: Locate the Pilot Light and Thermocouple
- 3 Step 3: Remove the Pilot Light Orifice Cover
- 4 Step 4: Clean the Pilot Light Orifice
- 5 Step 5: Reassemble the Pilot Light Orifice Cover
- 6 Step 6: Turn the Gas Valve to the “Pilot” Position
- 7 Step 7: Light the Pilot Light
- 8 Step 8: Adjust the Pilot Light
- 9 Step 9: Turn the Gas Valve to the “On” Position
Step 1: Turn Off the Furnace
Before attempting to restart the pilot light, turn off the furnace by switching the thermostat to the "off" position. This will ensure your safety while working on the pilot light.
Step 2: Locate the Pilot Light and Thermocouple
Find the pilot light and thermocouple located at the bottom of the furnace. The pilot light is usually a small, glass tube with a metal clip or screw holding it in place. The thermocouple is a metal wire or rod connected to the pilot light.
Step 3: Remove the Pilot Light Orifice Cover
Remove the cover or cap that protects the pilot light orifice. This will give you access to the orifice and allow you to clean it if necessary.
Step 4: Clean the Pilot Light Orifice
Use a small brush or toothbrush to gently remove any debris, dirt, or corrosion from the pilot light orifice. Make sure to clean the entire orifice, including the tiny holes and crevices.
Step 5: Reassemble the Pilot Light Orifice Cover
Once the orifice is clean, replace the cover or cap to protect it from debris and dust.
Step 6: Turn the Gas Valve to the “Pilot” Position
Locate the gas valve and turn it to the "pilot" position. This will allow gas to flow to the pilot light.
Step 7: Light the Pilot Light
Use a long lighter or matches to light the pilot light. Hold the flame to the pilot light for at least 30 seconds to ensure the thermocouple senses the flame and shuts off the gas supply.
Step 8: Adjust the Pilot Light
Adjust the pilot light to the recommended size, usually marked on the furnace or in the owner’s manual. A correctly adjusted pilot light will provide a steady, small flame.
Step 9: Turn the Gas Valve to the “On” Position
Once the pilot light is lit and adjusted, turn the gas valve to the "on" position. This will allow the furnace to ignite and provide heat.
Troubleshooting Tips
If the pilot light continues to go out after restarting, try the following:
- Check the gas pressure: Low gas pressure can cause the pilot light to go out. Check the gas pressure gauge and adjust it if necessary.
- Clean the thermocouple: A dirty or corroded thermocouple can prevent the pilot light from staying lit. Clean the thermocouple with a wire brush or replace it if necessary.
- Adjust the pilot light orifice: A clogged or dirty pilot light orifice can prevent the pilot light from igniting. Clean or replace the orifice as necessary.
Conclusion
Restarting a furnace pilot light is a relatively simple process that requires attention to detail and caution. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to successfully restart your pilot light and get your furnace up and running in no time. Remember to troubleshoot any issues that may arise and take preventative measures to ensure your pilot light stays lit throughout the heating season.
Additional Tips and Resources
- Regular maintenance: Regularly cleaning and maintaining your furnace can help prevent pilot light issues.
- Professional assistance: If you’re not comfortable restarting the pilot light yourself, consider hiring a professional HVAC technician.
- Owner’s manual: Consult your furnace’s owner’s manual for specific instructions on restarting the pilot light.
Table: Common Causes of Pilot Light Issues
| Cause | Solution |
|---|---|
| Dirty or clogged pilot light orifice | Clean the orifice with a small brush or toothbrush |
| Low gas pressure | Check and adjust the gas pressure gauge |
| Faulty thermocouple | Clean or replace the thermocouple |
| Pilot light adjustment | Adjust the pilot light to the recommended size |
Bullets List: Important Safety Precautions
• Turn off the furnace before attempting to restart the pilot light
• Use a long lighter or matches to light the pilot light
• Hold the flame to the pilot light for at least 30 seconds
• Adjust the pilot light to the recommended size
• Check the gas pressure gauge and adjust it if necessary
• Clean or replace the thermocouple if necessary
• Consult your furnace’s owner’s manual for specific instructions
