Your furnace keeps your home comfortably warm during the chilly months, but when something goes wrong with the pilot light, it can leave your household in the cold—and full of frustration. We’ve got you covered, whether you’re:
- Troubleshooting
- Curious about how it works
- Trying to figure out whether it’s time for an upgrade
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about a furnace pilot light, from what they are and common issues to troubleshooting tips, maintenance advice, and when to call for professional help.
What Is a Furnace Pilot Light?
Simply put, the pilot light is a small flame inside your furnace that ignites the burners, allowing the furnace to produce heat. Pilot lights were common on older gas furnaces and are still present in many homes today. Without the pilot light, your furnace can’t generate the heat needed to keep your home warm.
There are two main types of ignition systems in furnaces:
- Standing Pilot Light: A continuously burning flame that is used in older gas furnaces.
- Electronic Ignition System: Found in modern furnaces, this system doesn’t use a continuously burning flame. Instead, it ignites the burners via an electric spark or hot surface igniter.
If your furnace has a standing pilot light, this post is especially for you!
Where to Find the Furnace Pilot Light
Locating the pilot light on your furnace is fairly straightforward once you know where to look. Typically, the pilot light is found near the bottom of the furnace, close to the burners. You’ll need to carefully remove or open the furnace’s access panel to see it. Look for a small, steady flame positioned near a gas valve or small control knob labeled “Pilot” or something similar.
For some older models, there might also be instructions printed on the inside of the access panel to help guide you. Always ensure your furnace is off before attempting to check or relight the pilot light to avoid any safety risks.
Why the Pilot Light Is Important
Without the pilot light functioning properly, your furnace simply won’t heat your home. It’s the key to starting the entire heating process. A properly burning pilot light is a sign that your furnace is working as it should, keeping you warm and cozy.
However, pilot lights can sometimes extinguish or encounter issues, disrupting your home’s warmth. Knowing how to handle this situation ensures that you can avoid downtime and discomfort.
Common Issues with Furnace Pilot Lights
If you’re dealing with furnace problems, the pilot light is often one of the first places to check. Here are some common issues homeowners experience with pilot lights:
Pilot Light Goes Out Frequently
If your pilot light keeps going out, it’s more than just an inconvenience. Some possible reasons include:
- Dirty Pilot Orifice: Dust or debris in the opening can obstruct the flame’s path, causing it to go out.
- Weak Flame: If the flame is weak or flickering, it may not stay lit, often due to issues like low gas pressure.
- Faulty Thermocouple: The thermocouple is a safety device that senses whether the pilot light is on. If this part malfunctions, it might cut off the gas supply.
Pilot Light Won’t Light
Trying to relight the pilot but seeing no flame? Possible causes include:
- No Gas Supply: Check that the gas valve is turned on. Without gas, there’s nothing to fuel the flame.
- Clogged Orifice: Once again, dirt can block the passage and prevent the flame from igniting.
Yellow or Orange Flame
A healthy pilot light should burn blue. If you notice a yellow or orange flame, it could indicate:
- Lack of Oxygen: Combustion needs sufficient oxygen. Poor airflow can result in an inefficient flame.
- Carbon Monoxide Risk: A yellow or orange flame might indicate incomplete combustion, which can lead to carbon monoxide buildup—a serious safety hazard.
4 Steps For Troubleshooting Furnace Pilot Light Issues
Dealing with a pilot light problem doesn’t always mean you have to call a professional immediately. Sometimes, you can take simple steps to troubleshoot the issue yourself.
Step 1: Check the Gas System
Ensure that the gas supply is turned on. Locate the gas valve near your furnace and double-check that it’s in the “On” or “Open” position.
Step 2: Inspect for Dirt or Debris
Over time, dirt can accumulate around the pilot orifice, causing flame issues. Use a small brush or compressed air to gently clean the area. Always turn off the gas supply before attempting this.
Step 3: Relight the Pilot Light
If the pilot light has gone out, follow these steps to relight it:
- Turn off your furnace and wait at least 5 minutes to ensure there’s no lingering gas.
- Locate the pilot light assembly and gas valve knob.
- Turn the gas valve to the “Pilot” position.
- Use a long-reach lighter or match to carefully relight the pilot while holding the reset button if applicable.
- Once the flame is steady, turn the gas valve back to the “On” position.
If the pilot doesn’t stay lit after several attempts, it’s best to call a professional.
Step 4: Check the Thermocouple
If your pilot light goes out frequently or won’t stay lit, the thermocouple might be the culprit. This metal rod senses heat from the pilot flame and shuts off the gas supply if the flame is out. A worn or damaged thermocouple may need to be cleaned or replaced.
When to Call a Professional
While there are steps you can take to troubleshoot your furnace pilot light, some situations require professional expertise. Call an HVAC technician if:
- The pilot light won’t stay lit despite multiple relighting attempts.
- You notice a yellow or orange flame (as this could indicate dangerous carbon monoxide issues).
- The pilot light assembly or thermocouple needs repair or replacement.
- You’re not comfortable troubleshooting the issue yourself.
At Genz Ryan, our skilled HVAC technicians are here to help with any furnace issue—including pilot light problems. You can count on us for safe, efficient repairs to keep your home warm.
Maintenance Tips for Furnace Pilot Lights
Avoid unexpected cold spells with routine maintenance for your furnace and its pilot light. Here’s how you can keep things running smoothly:
- Schedule annual furnace tune-ups to ensure that the entire system is functioning properly.
- Regularly inspect the pilot light for dirt, corrosion, or any signs of trouble.
- Keep the area around your furnace clean and free from dust and debris.
- Replace or fix components like the thermocouple as needed to avoid disruptions.
Taking care of your furnace on a regular basis ensures a more reliable system that lasts longer and performs better.
Frequently Asked Questions About Furnaces and Pilot Lights
We’re breaking down the most commonly asked questions about pilot lights.
Q: Can I switch to an electronic ignition system?
Yes, many homeowners choose to upgrade their furnaces to models with modern electronic ignition systems. These systems don’t rely on a continuously burning flame, making them more energy-efficient. If you’re interested in upgrading, Genz Ryan can guide you through your options.
Q: Are pilot lights safe?
When functioning correctly, pilot lights are safe. However, improper maintenance can lead to issues such as gas leaks or carbon monoxide hazards. Regular furnace upkeep ensures safety.
Q: How do I know if my pilot light is out?
If your furnace is blowing cold air or won’t turn on at all, the pilot light is often the issue. Look inside the furnace for a small, steady blue flame—if it’s not there, the pilot light is out.
Is It Time to Replace Your Furnace?
If pilot light issues are becoming frequent, it might be time to consider whether your furnace is nearing the end of its lifespan. Older furnaces with standing pilot lights can be less efficient than modern models with electronic ignition systems.
Upgrading to a newer furnace offers benefits like:
- Improved energy efficiency (lower utility bills).
- Enhanced safety features.
- Better performance and reliability.
Genz Ryan provides expert furnace installation to ensure your home stays warm all winter long. Our team will help you select the best option for your needs and budget.
Why Choose Genz Ryan?
When it comes to keeping your home warm and comfortable, Genz Ryan is the name you can trust. We bring decades of experience to every HVAC service, offering reliable solutions and friendly customer care.
- Expert Technicians: Our licensed professionals are trained to diagnose and repair all furnace types, ensuring the highest level of service.
- Emergency Services: Unexpected furnace problems? We’re here 24/7 to help.
- Satisfaction Guarantee: Your comfort and satisfaction are our top priorities.
Stay Warm and Worry-Free with Genz Ryan
Your furnace pilot light may be small, but it plays a big role in keeping your home cozy. With the right knowledge, troubleshooting steps, and regular maintenance, you can keep your furnace running smoothly all season long.
If you’re dealing with pilot light issues—or any furnace trouble—trust the experts at Genz Ryan. Contact us today to schedule a service or learn more about upgrading your heating system.
