How to Tell if Your Furnace Pilot Light is Out
During the colder months, your furnace is an essential component of your home’s heating system. However, a common issue that can occur is the pilot light going out. A pilot light is a small flame that ignites the main burner to produce heat. When it’s out, it can leave you without warmth and create a potential safety hazard. In this article, we’ll guide you on how to tell if your furnace pilot light is out and what to do if it is.
Symptoms of a Pilots Light Out
Before we dive into the solutions, let’s identify some common symptoms that may indicate your pilot light is out:
- No heat: If your furnace isn’t producing any heat, it could be a sign that the pilot light is out.
- Strange noises: Unusual noises, such as clicking or whirring sounds, can be a sign of a malfunctioning pilot light.
- Foul odors: A pilot light that’s not burning properly can cause unpleasant odors in your home.
- Yellow or dim burner flames: If the burner flames are yellow or dim, it may indicate that the pilot light is not igniting properly.
How to Check the Pilot Light
To determine if your pilot light is out, follow these steps:
- Check the thermostat: Ensure your thermostat is set to the "heat" mode and the temperature is set to a higher value.
- Locate the pilot light: Find the pilot light assembly, which is usually located near the bottom of the furnace.
- Look for the pilot light: Gently shine a flashlight through the viewing window or peephole on the pilot light assembly. If you can’t see the flame, it may be out.
- Check for gas flow: Make sure there’s a gentle flow of gas coming from the pilot light. You can do this by listening for the hissing sound or by checking the gas gauge (if your furnace has one).
- Check for ignition: Press the pilot light button to try to relight the flame. If it doesn’t ignite, it’s likely out.
Why Does the Pilot Light Go Out?
There are several reasons why your pilot light may go out:
- Dirty or clogged burner: A dirty or clogged burner can prevent the pilot light from burning properly.
- Gas leaks: A gas leak in the pilot light or furnace can cause the flame to extinguish.
- Malfunctioning thermostat: A faulty thermostat can prevent the pilot light from staying lit.
- Proper adjustment: If the pilot light is not adjusted correctly, it may not stay lit.
What to Do If the Pilot Light is Out
If your pilot light is out, don’t panic! Follow these steps to relight it:
- Turn off the gas supply: Locate the gas shut-off valve and turn it clockwise to shut off the gas supply to the furnace.
- Wait 5 minutes: Allow the gas to dissipate to prevent accidental ignition.
- Relight the pilot light: Press the pilot light button and hold it for 1-2 seconds. Release the button and wait for the flame to stabilize.
- Check the burner: Make sure the burner is clean and free of debris. If it’s dirty, clean it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Call a professional: If you’re unable to relight the pilot light or suspect a gas leak, contact a licensed HVAC technician to assist you.
Tips and Precautions
- Regular maintenance: Regularly clean and inspect your furnace and pilot light to prevent issues.
- Check the pilot light annually: Schedule an annual furnace inspection to ensure the pilot light is functioning properly.
- Keep the area clean: Keep the area around the furnace and pilot light free of clutter and flammable materials.
- Avoid using a flame source: Never use a flame source, such as a match or lighter, to relight the pilot light. This can cause an explosion or fire.
Conclusion
A pilot light that’s out can cause significant disruptions to your heating system and potentially create a safety hazard. By recognizing the symptoms, checking the pilot light, and understanding the reasons why it goes out, you can troubleshoot and relight the pilot light with ease. Remember to take regular maintenance and precautions to ensure your furnace and pilot light continue to function properly throughout the year.
Table: Common Reasons for a Pilot Light Going Out
| Reason | Description |
|---|---|
| Dirty or clogged burner | Prevents the pilot light from burning properly |
| Gas leaks | Gas leak in the pilot light or furnace |
| Malfunctioning thermostat | Faulty thermostat prevents the pilot light from staying lit |
| Proper adjustment | Pilot light not adjusted correctly |
| Other | (Other reasons may apply) |
Bulleted List: Steps to Relight the Pilot Light
• Turn off the gas supply
• Wait 5 minutes
• Relight the pilot light
• Check the burner
• Call a professional (if necessary)
