As winter approaches, it’s essential to ensure that your furnace is operating efficiently and safely. One common issue homeowners face is a pilot light that has gone out. This can lead to a cold home and frustration. But worry not! Our expert guide on how to relight the pilot light on your furnace will help you restore warmth and comfort to your home in no time. Our expert team has compiled a step-by-step process that is easy to follow, safe, and backed by well-established consensus on scientific topics.
How to Relight Pilot Light on Furnace: Expert Insights
By seeking advice and guidance from seasoned HVAC professionals, you can rest assured that you will receive the most satisfactory solution. That’s precisely why Browns Heating & Cooling is the ideal choice for Chicago, IL, as they possess exceptional expertise in all aspects of furnace services, ranging from installation and repair to replacement, as well as other HVAC equipment. He States:
As winter looms, a properly functioning furnace is crucial for a warm and comfortable home. Our expert guide on relighting your furnace’s pilot light offers a step-by-step process to restore heat safely and efficiently. From identifying your furnace type to igniting the pilot light, this guide covers it all. It also answers common questions like why pilot lights go out and how to know if your furnace has an electronic ignition system. By following these instructions and prioritizing safety, you’ll ensure a cozy home during the cold months.
Step 1: Identify the Type of Furnace You Have
Before you start, it’s important to know what type of furnace you have. There are two primary types of furnaces: those with a standing pilot light and those with an electronic ignition system.
Standing Pilot Light:
This type of furnace has a small, continuously burning flame that ignites the main burner when the thermostat calls for heat. If you have a standing pilot light, you will need to follow our guide on how to relight the pilot light manually.
Electronic Ignition System:
This type of furnace doesn’t have a pilot light, but rather an electronic ignition system that ignites the main burner on demand. If your furnace has an electronic ignition system, you will not need to follow this guide, as the process is different and typically requires professional assistance.
Step 2: Turn Off the Gas and Wait
For safety reasons, it’s crucial to turn off the gas supply to your furnace before attempting to relight the pilot light. Locate the gas valve, typically found close to the furnace, and turn the valve handle to the “off” position. Wait for at least 5 minutes to allow any residual gas to dissipate. This will ensure a safe environment for relighting the pilot light.
Step 3: Locate the Pilot Light and Burner Assembly
The pilot light and burner assembly are usually located behind a removable panel or door on the furnace. Remove the panel or door to access the pilot light and burner assembly. You may need a screwdriver or other tools, depending on your furnace model.
Step 4: Turn the Gas Control Knob to the ‘Pilot’ Position
Locate the gas control knob on the furnace, typically found near the pilot light and burner assembly. Turn the knob to the “pilot” position. This will allow gas to flow only to the pilot light and not the main burner.
Step 5: Ignite the Pilot Light
Use a long-reach lighter or long match to ignite the pilot light. While holding the gas control knob in the “pilot” position, place the flame near the pilot light orifice (the small opening where the gas comes out). The pilot light should ignite almost immediately. If it doesn’t, wait a few moments and try again.
Step 6: Hold the Gas Control Knob Down
Once the pilot light is lit, continue to hold down the gas control knob for about 30-60 seconds. This allows the thermocouple (a safety device that detects heat from the pilot light) to heat up and signal the gas valve that it’s safe to release gas to the main burner.
Step 7: Release the Gas Control Knob and Turn It to ‘On’
After holding the gas control knob for the specified time, release it. The pilot light should remain lit. If the pilot light stays lit, turn the gas control knob to the “on” position, which will enable the main burner to receive gas when the thermostat calls for heat. Replace the furnace panel or door, and turn your thermostat to the desired temperature. Your furnace should now function properly. If the pilot light doesn’t stay lit or you encounter other issues, it may be time to consult a professional HVAC technician.
FAQs for Relighting Your Furnace’s Pilot Light
Why does my pilot light keep going out?
There could be several reasons why your pilot light keeps going out:
Drafts: Strong drafts can blow out the pilot light. Ensure that your furnace room is properly sealed, and there are no windows or doors open nearby.
Dirty Pilot Orifice: A dirty or partially blocked pilot orifice can cause an inconsistent flame, leading to the pilot light going out. Cleaning the pilot orifice may resolve the issue.
Faulty Thermocouple: A thermocouple that’s not functioning correctly may not sense the heat from the pilot light, causing the gas valve to close and the pilot light to go out. Replacing the thermocouple may be necessary.
How do I know if my furnace has an electronic ignition system?
An electronic ignition system can be identified by the absence of a continuously burning pilot light. You may also find a label on the furnace specifying that it has an electronic ignition system. These systems typically have a small, rectangular ignition control module mounted near the burner assembly.
Can I relight the pilot light on my electronic ignition furnace?
No, electronic ignition systems don’t have a traditional pilot light. Instead, they use a spark or hot surface igniter to ignite the main burner on demand. If you’re experiencing issues with an electronic ignition furnace, it’s best to contact a professional HVAC technician for assistance.
Is it dangerous to relight the pilot light on my furnace?
As long as you follow the proper steps and safety precautions outlined in this guide, relighting the pilot light on your furnace should not be dangerous. Ensure that you turn off the gas supply, wait for any residual gas to dissipate, and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific furnace model.
How often should I check my furnace's pilot light?
It’s a good idea to check your furnace’s pilot light at least once a year, preferably before the heating season begins. This will help ensure that your furnace is operating safely and efficiently. If you notice any issues with the pilot light, such as a weak or yellow flame, it may be time to contact a professional HVAC technician for an inspection and maintenance.
By following this expert guide on how to relight the pilot light on your furnace, you can restore warmth and comfort to your home quickly and safely. Remember to always follow safety precautions and consult a professional if you’re unsure about any step in the process.
Ramod Brown, the founder of Browns Heating & Cooling, brings a wealth of HVAC experience to Chicago and its neighboring areas. With deep expertise in heating and cooling services, he simplifies complex HVAC concepts through his insightful blog posts. Whether you’re seeking ways to enhance HVAC efficiency, troubleshoot issues, or stay informed about the latest trends, the Browns Heating & Cooling blog is your go-to resource for practical insights that will help you maintain a comfortable and efficient environment for your space.