Where is my furnace pilot light?
As the temperatures drop during the winter months, the last thing you want to deal with is a malfunctioning furnace. But, if you’re lucky enough to have a gas-powered furnace, you may have noticed that the pilot light has gone out. This can be frustrating, especially if you’re not sure where to find the pilot light in the first place.
What is a furnace pilot light?
Before we dive into where to find the pilot light, let’s quickly explain what it is. The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas burner in your furnace, allowing it to produce heat. It’s usually located near the burner and is typically about 1/4 inch in diameter.
Where is my furnace pilot light?
So, where can you find the pilot light on your furnace? The answer varies depending on the type and brand of your furnace. Here are some general locations where you might find the pilot light:
- Below the furnace burner: In many furnaces, the pilot light is located below the burner, usually on the side or bottom of the unit.
- Near the gas valve: The pilot light might be located near the gas valve, which is usually on the side or top of the furnace.
- In a pilot light chamber: Some furnaces have a separate pilot light chamber, which is usually a small, enclosed space near the burner.
- On the side of the furnace: In some cases, the pilot light might be located on the side of the furnace, near the bottom or top.
Types of furnace pilot lights
There are several types of furnace pilot lights, each with its own unique characteristics. Here are a few common types:
- Continuous pilot light: This type of pilot light remains lit continuously, even when the furnace is not in use.
- Intermittent pilot light: This type of pilot light only lights when the furnace is in use.
- Electronic ignition pilot light: This type of pilot light uses an electronic ignition system to light the flame.
How to light a furnace pilot light
If your pilot light has gone out, you’ll need to relight it. Here are the general steps:
- Turn off the power: Make sure the power to the furnace is turned off before attempting to relight the pilot light.
- Open the access panel: You’ll need to access the pilot light chamber or area where the pilot light is located. This usually involves removing a panel or cover.
- Remove any obstacles: Clear any obstacles, such as debris or old pilot light components, from the area.
- Light the pilot light: Use a match, lighter, or pilot light igniter to light the pilot light. You may need to adjust the flame to ensure it’s burning properly.
- Check the flame: Make sure the flame is burning steadily and consistently.
Troubleshooting common issues
If you’re having trouble lighting your furnace pilot light, here are some common issues to check:
- Dirty or clogged pilot light orifice: Make sure the pilot light orifice is clean and free of debris.
- Faulty thermocouple: The thermocouple might be faulty or damaged, preventing the pilot light from igniting.
- Gas leak: Check for gas leaks around the furnace and pilot light area.
- Pilot light component failure: The pilot light component might be faulty or damaged, preventing the flame from lighting.
Table: Common furnace pilot light issues and solutions
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Dirty or clogged pilot light orifice | Clean the orifice with a brush or replace it if necessary |
| Faulty thermocouple | Replace the thermocouple if necessary |
| Gas leak | Check for leaks and repair or replace the affected component |
| Pilot light component failure | Replace the component if necessary |
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding and relighting your furnace pilot light can be a daunting task, but it’s an essential part of maintaining your furnace. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to locate and relight your pilot light, ensuring your furnace is working properly and keeping your home warm and cozy during the cold winter months.
Additional tips
- Regular maintenance: Regularly cleaning and maintaining your furnace can help prevent pilot light issues.
- Professional assistance: If you’re not comfortable relighting the pilot light yourself, consider hiring a professional HVAC technician.
- Check your furnace manual: Refer to your furnace manual for specific instructions on lighting the pilot light, as the process may vary depending on your furnace model and brand.
