When the weather cools down, a reliable gas furnace is essential for a comfortable home. But if your furnace isn’t heating, you might have a pilot light issue. Problems with the pilot light are one of the main reasons furnaces lose heat, leaving you and your family in the cold. Residential Heating and Air Conditioning can help with gas furnace repair in Minneapolis and surrounding areas, so let’s break down why your pilot light might be giving you trouble.
What Is a Pilot Light?
The pilot light is a small flame that starts up the burners in older gas furnaces. When it’s working, the furnace has the spark it needs to run and heat your home. But when the pilot light goes out, your furnace can’t ignite. That’s where the trouble starts.
Common Pilot Light Issues
Pilot light issues can stem from a variety of causes. Here’s a rundown of the most common:
- Pilot Light Won’t Stay Lit: If the pilot light goes out frequently, there may be a problem with the thermocouple. This small sensor detects the flame, and if it’s faulty, it may shut off the gas to your furnace as a safety measure. Another reason could be dirt buildup in the pilot light opening, which disrupts the gas flow and makes it hard for the flame to stay lit. Low gas pressure can also cause this issue.
- No Flame at All: When there’s no flame, it’s often due to a problem with gas flow or an ignition issue. First, check the gas valve. If it’s in the “off” position, turn it to “on” and try again. If that doesn’t solve the problem, it’s time to call a professional for furnace repair.
- Yellow or Flickering Flame: A pilot flame should burn blue. If it’s yellow or flickering, the furnace may have airflow or gas mixture problems. A yellow flame can lead to incomplete combustion, producing carbon monoxide. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
Simple Pilot Light Troubleshooting Tips
Some pilot light issues are easy to troubleshoot. First, make sure the gas valve is set to “on.” If it’s off, turn it on and follow the instructions on your furnace to relight the pilot. Check for drafts near the furnace, as they can extinguish the flame. If you’re still having trouble, avoid further tinkering, as it could damage the system or worsen the issue. Our NATE-certified technicians are trained to handle these repairs safely and effectively.
Professional Furnace Repair and Maintenance Services
Our team has experience diagnosing and fixing all types of furnace issues, including tricky pilot light problems. Our NATE-certified technicians are familiar with every part of your furnace and have the tools to fix it right the first time. We offer a full range of furnace services, from furnace repair and furnace installation to furnace maintenance. We’ll get your heat running as quickly as possible.
Why Furnace Maintenance Matters
Avoid pilot light issues with regular furnace maintenance. During a yearly furnace tune-up, our technicians will inspect, clean, and adjust your furnace to prevent common malfunctions. Regular maintenance can help you avoid unexpected breakdowns, reduce repair needs, and extend the lifespan of your system. Furnace service is an easy way to protect your investment.
We Are Here for You
No heat? Don’t worry. We are here for furnace repair, furnace maintenance, or any furnace service you need. Whether it’s fixing a stubborn pilot light or scheduling furnace certification, our team is ready to help. With over 30 years in the business, we’re your go-to for furnace repair and gravity furnace replacement.