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Has your water suddenly become cold? Or maybe your furnace won’t turn on? It’s possible the pilot light has turned off! So, how to relight a gas furnace pilot light? Pilot lights are those small, always-on flames in many gas appliances. Occasionally, they may go out due to drafts, gas supply issues, or buildup on the thermocouple (a safety sensor).
You don’t need to worry; relighting a pilot light is usually easy. If you need help with the specific process for your appliance, we can guide you!
Let’s explore the common reasons why pilot lights burn out and learn How To Relight A Pilot Light in a few simple steps. This easy fix could save you a repair call!
Why does a gas furnace pilot light go out?
A sudden gust of wind, even from an open window or door, can easily extinguish a pilot light.
Over time, the tiny opening where gas flows out of the pilot light can become clogged with dust or debris. It restricts gas flow and makes the flame weak or nonexistent.
A faulty thermocouple might “think” the flame is out, shutting off the gas even if the light is still on. This prevents gas leaks.
The pilot light will eventually run out of fuel if the gas supply is low or shut off.
Pilot light failures are less common when it comes to faulty gas valves or mechanical problems.
How to relight a gas furnace pilot light
A pilot light keeps gas appliances like furnaces and water heaters ready for action. Sometimes they go out due to drafts or grime! Here’s how to fix it!
Step 1: Locate the Pilot Light and Control Knob
Most furnaces place the pilot light near the bottom. Look for a knob marked Pilot, On, and Off.
Can’t find it? Your furnace manual (either the paper one or online on the manufacturer’s website) will have a diagram.
Step 2: Turn the gas off.
You have to turn the knob off for safety reasons!
Step 3: Take a breather.
Before you relight, let the gas in the air clear out for a minute.
Step 4: It’s ignition time! How to light a gas furnace with electronic ignition?
- Set the knob to Pilot (this starts the gas flow again).
- Grab a long lighter or match, light it, and then press the reset button (often red).
- Hold your flame right at the pilot light opening.
- Keep the reset button pressed until the pilot light stays lit – then you can release the button.
Your furnace should roar back to life! Make sure the pilot light stays on. You still can’t light it? Look for drafts.
Read Also: Goodman Furnace Solid Red Light Issue: Steady ON Or LED Flashes [ Fixed ]
What happens when a furnace’s pilot light burns out?
The pilot light of a furnace goes out, so here are a few things you need to watch out for:
Heat loss: Without a pilot light, your furnace won’t ignite the main burners, leaving your home cold.
When the pilot light is out for a long time, there’s a risk of a gas leak, which poses the risk of an explosion if it re-ignites.
Modern furnaces have automatic shutoff valves to prevent gas leaks when the pilot light blows out. However, you’ll still lose heat if the pilot light turns out.
You should fix the pilot light issue right away to restore heat to your home and keep your furnace safe.
Read Also: DIY Guide To American Standard Furnace Repair: Troubleshooting, Error Codes
In conclusion, finding out how to relight a gas furnace pilot light can save you time (and money) on repairs. It’s easy to relight the pilot light with these simple steps. Always prioritize safety and consult your furnace manual for specific instructions.
