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Furnace Pilot Light Malfunctioning

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Furnace Pilot Light Malfunctioning

Posted On: December 29, 2024

Furnace Pilot Light Malfunctioning

If your furnace pilot light is malfunctioning, it can prevent your heating system from working effectively. Here’s a detailed guide to identify and resolve common pilot light issues:


1. Understand the Problem

The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the burners in your furnace. If it’s malfunctioning or won’t stay lit, your furnace may not generate heat.



2. Common Causes

  1. Dirty Pilot Orifice
    Dust, debris, or soot can clog the pilot orifice, reducing or extinguishing the flame.


  2. Thermocouple Issues
    The thermocouple is a safety device that shuts off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out. If it’s faulty or misaligned, the pilot may not stay lit.


  3. Drafts or Airflow Problems
    Strong drafts near the furnace can blow out the pilot light.


  4. Gas Supply Issues
    Insufficient gas pressure or a gas valve issue can prevent the pilot from staying lit.


  5. Malfunctioning Gas Control Valve
    If the gas valve is faulty, it may not release enough gas for the pilot light to ignite.



3. Troubleshooting Steps

a. Inspect the Pilot Light

  • Check if the flame is burning. A healthy pilot light should be steady and blue. If it’s yellow or flickering, it may indicate a problem with the gas mixture or airflow.

b. Relight the Pilot Light

  1. Turn off the furnace and wait for gas to dissipate (5-10 minutes).
  2. Locate the pilot light assembly and turn the gas control knob to "Pilot."
  3. Hold down the reset button and use a long lighter to ignite the flame.
  4. Release the button slowly after 30-60 seconds.

c. Clean the Pilot Orifice

  • Turn off the gas supply and use a needle or compressed air to remove debris from the pilot orifice.

d. Test the Thermocouple

  • Ensure the thermocouple is in direct contact with the flame. If misaligned, adjust its position.
  • If it’s worn out, replace the thermocouple.

e. Check for Drafts

  • Seal any openings near the furnace to prevent drafts from blowing out the flame.

f. Inspect Gas Supply

  • Verify that the gas valve is open and gas is flowing properly. Consult a professional if there’s a suspected gas pressure issue.

4. When to Call a Professional

  • If the pilot light still won’t stay lit after troubleshooting.
  • You suspect a gas leak or faulty gas valve.
  • There’s a persistent yellow or weak flame.

5. Maintenance Tips

  1. Schedule annual furnace maintenance.
  2. Keep the pilot light assembly clean.
  3. Regularly check for drafts and airflow issues.
  4. Monitor your furnace’s performance during the heating season.

Addressing a malfunctioning pilot light promptly ensures a warm and safe home. If in doubt, always consult a licensed HVAC technician.



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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Colin Vernon on Twintech Heating and Cooling

They've cleaned my furnace a couple of times and mentioned that the hot water tank standards were going to change soon so I decided to change mine out.

There were a few challenges during the process but the installers handled the problems without missing a stride! I now have really hot water again!

by Heidi B on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Highly recommend Twintech Heating company, we got honest and detailed information on what was needed to replace and install a new gas furnace. Bob and Greg made us feel comfortable withe process through their thorough explanation and knowledge of the right furnace for our needs. The professionalism and courteous friendly attitude towards the customer is what we liked the most as they treated us like family. So happy with our decision and new furnace we will be looking into get our rental water heater replaced and installed by Twintech team. We feel better having their knowledge on our side and will only trust them with any further maintenance of furnace.

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Customer service and knowledge is priority in this industry, and Twintech has it. I've dealt with their team for maintenance and a furnace replacement. They're accommodating and make great recommendations, and came through at a great price over the big guys in the industry. They'll be my next call when I need service or maintenance.

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I decided that the noises and age of the existing furnace which was old and not very efficient to replace it. Gave Greg a call and Grant and Greg got to work on it. Because of supply issues with the current heating type that would be an easier install Greg convinced me to change the location of the system and it would provide me better service for heat and efficiency. I had skeptical but went ahead anyway putting trust in Greg And Grant. Greg, Grant and Mitch came through and in 2 days had completely relocated my heating and A/C system. I can honestly say Greg was right my old house has been warmer and more evenly heated as it ever was. For anyone reading this rather long winded review can take my word for it, Twin Tech can take care of your needs.

by Nicole Alain on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I called Twin Tech when my air conditioning stopped working. Greg came over to diagnose the issue - the same day. He was able to diagnose the issue and resolve it quite quickly. Although it was a quick fix, Greg was very thorough in explaining the issue and provided great advice. Not to mention, I felt very comfortable having Greg in my home - which I consider very important when hiring a service provider. Twin Tech will be my go-to from now on. Thank you!!

by Cibele Ceroni on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Great Team! Furnace broke in the weekend, Bob visited same day and Greg installed new one on Monday. Team was professional, respectful and knowledgeable. Installation went very well, Greg found solutions to challenges, like hiding new conduits in the ceiling. Looks nice and new furnace is working great. Five Stars.

by Jackie Graham on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I used Twintech to install a new furnace for my home. Bob was terrific in explaining the sizing options and why the 2 stage furnace was the best option for me. Greg did a great job installing, clean and on time. Finished work looks great but the best part is how it works. The 2 stage heating is so much more comfortable. I run the fan continuously to keep the indoor air clean. Great investment! Would highly recommendTwintech!

by Anthony Silva on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I’m going to start this by saying I’m a very particular customer. My background is in mathematics and mechanical engineering so I have an eye for detail and a respect for technical knowledge.
Greg had already done an AC inspection and replaced a water heater tank and there was no question in my mind who to deal with replacing my rickety old furnace after it got pooched.
Bob dropped in ahead of time and clearly (and knowledgeably) outlined all technical, price and operational options.
Greg showed up on time, on the agreed date and did a fantastic job. (The OLD furnace was a house of horrors and was installed in a keystone cops sort of way- careless.)
The work Greg did was HIGHLY PROFESSIONAL and FAR MORE FUNCTIONAL than what I had.
I’m also a musician with many instruments so maintaining predictable humidity/temperature is extremely important to me. Greg recognized this as did Bob. You NEVER feel like you’re being brushed off.
In summary, if you’re looking for PROFESSIONAL, QUALITY results by an EXPERIENCED, THOUGHTFUL team
(that also happen to be FRIENDLY and ATTENTIVE ) then you’ve come to the right page!!

by Karen Morgan on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Once again Twin Tech came through and fixed my furnace. A young man by the name of Mitch came by tonight and he was so nice explained everything he was quick he was clean he turned off the lights even when he left the furnace room it’s just above and beyond Twin Tech always delivers and I just found out about them last year and I will use no one else but thanks again Mitch you are fantastic

by Richard Liu on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I had a problem with the Furnace (Armstrong ultra V) and Greg diagnosed it on the phone. Even told me what the issue was and I was able to fix it. This level of service from a Business that is almost unknown today.

If you require service, reach out to Greg. I will definitely use them in the future!

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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Robert Rogers on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Very pleased with the professional service that TwinTech Heating and Cooling provided in replacing my furnace. I got several quotes from different service providers. Their price was excellent and they explained the features very well. We are very glad we went with TwinTech and highly recommend their services.

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We were new homeowners in need of a second opinion. TwinTech Heating & Cooling were Amazing and professional. Very knowledgeable and great service all around. Recommend to anyone looking for honest and reliable services. Treated with respect and care. Thank you Greg, Mitch and Bob!

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TwinTech is an excellent and honest company! I called them for a second opinion after being told by another company that I needed to replace my furnace. Turns out this was not the case at all! I did not need a new furnace. TwinTech did not push to make an unnecessary sale and saved me from a huge expense. Bob and Mitch were extremely professional and above all honest! I definitely recommend TwinTech!

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Amazing experience with TwinTech Heating & Cooling! Their team was professional, knowledgeable, and efficient from start to finish. They installed my new furnace quickly and left everything spotless. The technicians took the time to explain everything and made sure I was comfortable with the system before they left. Great customer service and fair pricing. I highly recommend them for anyone needing HVAC services!

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Great experience all around. Bob was sharp and easy to talk to, and Greg handled the installation perfectly. Would hire them again in a heartbeat.

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