If you have a gas furnace, there’s a good chance your pilot light will go out at some point, probably at the least optimal time. Typically, this isn’t a cause for concern, and relighting it will be a straightforward process. Every homeowner should know how to relight their pilot and determine if an extinguished pilot is a sign of a deeper problem with their system.
What Causes a Pilot Light to Go Out?
- Dirty Pilot Orifice: One likely culprit is built-up debris in your furnace’s pilot orifice (the small opening where the gas lights the pilot). If your pilot light goes out or is yellow and flickering, there’s a good chance your pilot orifice needs a good cleaning. A healthy pilot flame should be blue-tinged and cone-shaped. Some furnace owners choose to clean the pilot orifice themselves. This can be done by gently scrubbing it with fine-grit sandpaper and/or using a needle to remove accumulated dirt. If you attempt this, you must turn off the gas, wait for any ambient gas to dissipate, and allow the unit to cool down before beginning, which is why most people let professionals handle it.
- Thermocouple Issues: A dirty, bent, or broken thermocouple (a device that detects heat from the pilot light) can cause the gas to shut off. While it’s sometimes possible to bend a thermocouple back into place, we strongly suggest having it replaced instead. Thermocouples wear out over time, and a bent part’s performance will only worsen in the future.
- Poor Furnace Location: If your furnace is in an area that is too small or enclosed, it won’t get enough oxygen for the pilot to burn properly. Another danger is that carbon monoxide can build up in your home. If you suspect this is why your pilot light keeps going out, call us immediately to assess your system, as carbon monoxide exposure can have deadly consequences.
Is It Okay If Your Pilot Light Goes Out?
As long as you can manage without heat while your furnace is off, it’s usually okay when the pilot light goes out on a newer system. Most furnaces manufactured since the 1990s use electrical ignition systems with a safety valve to cut off the gas automatically when the pilot light goes out.
Older systems without an automatic shutoff could allow dangerous gasses to escape into your home when the pilot light is extinguished. This is why it’s important to know your system’s specs, maintain it regularly, and install carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
Can I Relight the Pilot Light Myself?
As long as you follow all procedures and guidelines suggested by your furnace’s manufacturer, it’s generally safe to relight the pilot yourself. If you are uncertain about the process, it’s best to put safety first and let a professional diagnose and fix the problem.
What To Do If Your Pilot Light Goes Out
Before attempting to relight your furnace’s pilot, turn off the gas supply and give any lingering gas time to disperse. Check your pilot orifice and thermocouple. If these appear clean and intact, you can try relighting the pilot.
Typically, relighting an extinguished pilot involves setting the gas valve on “pilot,” holding down the reset button, igniting the flame with a long-stemmed lighter, and then turning the valve to the “on” position. Your system may differ, so consult the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have any issues, consider calling an HVAC professional to assess and repair any issues with your system.
Express C.O.D Can Fix Your Pilot Light Woes
If you’re having trouble with your pilot light or need any type of furnace maintenance, let us help. Express C.O.D is the most trusted name in HVAC services for Nassau and Suffolk Counties, with over six decades of experience. Express C.O.D offers competitive heating oil prices with our oil-on-demand delivery services and round-the-clock order placement. Contact us to learn more or to schedule an appointment.
