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Furnace Pilot Light Guide

If your gas furnace was made before 2010, it's likely to use a pilot light. This essential component of your furnace may seem simple, but it can be complicated to troubleshoot in certain circumstances. We've put together a brief guide to help you learn about your furnace pilot light and when it's time to call the experts at Cranney Home Services. 

Reach us at 978-750-6900 or fill out our online form to get your service started.

Furnace Pilot Light FAQ

Why does a furnace have a pilot light?

The pilot light is there to make sure the burners ignite when you turn the furnace on.

Where is the furnace pilot light?

The pilot light assembly is typically found somewhere near the bottom of the furnace. It usually has a gas valve with a knob that you can turn to on, off, or pilot.

How do I light my furnace pilot light?

Turn the pilot assembly off and wait five to 10 minutes for gas to dissipate completely. Turn the knob to pilot and hold down the nearby reset button while bringing flame from a long lighter close to the assembly's opening. This will light the pilot, and you can release the reset button.

Is the furnace pilot light always on?

 Yes, the pilot light should constantly be on and use a small amount of gas.

How do I check if the furnace pilot light is on?

Take the front cover panel off the furnace to expose the burner assembly. A quick look will reveal whether the flame is on or not.

What causes a furnace pilot light to go out?

There are a variety of reasons, some of which are more dangerous than others. It may simply be the age and condition of the furnace, indicating you need a replacement. It could also be a cracked heat exchanger, malfunctioning thermocouple, poor ventilation, or a problem with the gas valve or supply. All of these issues need to be handled by professionals.

Why does my furnace pilot light keep going out?

If your pilot light is going out over and over, it is likely a problem with the thermocouple. The thermocouple is the rod that deactivates gas flow when the pilot light is not on. It may be suffering from a buildup of dirt or be bent out of shape.

Why does my furnace pilot light go out when it's windy?

This could be a sign that your HVAC system is leaky and creating a draft that blows the pilot light out.

Why is my pilot light on, but the furnace isn't firing up?

If the issue is not the pilot light, there may be problems with the thermostat, blower component, or power source. All these causes warrant professional inspection and repair.

Why does my pilot light go out after using the furnace?

The thermocouple might be a problem, but it's usually tied to a dirty pilot orifice. If the problem persists after a thorough cleaning, it's time to call an expert.

Call Cranney Home Services for Gas Furnace Repair

Cranney Home Services has been in the business for more than 35 years, and we've seen every type of furnace out there. If you're having issues with your pilot light, call us at 978-750-6900 or reach out online to schedule a service appointment and get your home heated again.