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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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by Eric Y, Greenbank on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Dave was great in helping me get the proper units for my property, as well as getting them installed. The installers arrived when they said they would, and completed the project on time, and professionally. If I needed another furnace, I would use Dave again.

by Ed B., Whitby on Twintech Heating and Cooling

I have known Greg and Grant Dainty for many years and have used their company for my house and business. I recommended them also for my parents and sister and they all have been very satisfied with the quality of work for a reasonable price. I just recently had them install a new HVAC system in an older house and was very pleased with their work. Craig in Pickering. After meeting with various heating and air conditioning contractors I was referred to Twin Tech Heating and Cooling through a family member. Greg and Grant arrived at my home and provided me with an estimate and a plan as to how they were going to remove and replace my furnace and air conditioner. On the day of install Greg and Grant arrived at my home on time and were very professional and extremely courteous as to any questions or concerns that I had. The removal and install was truly professional and the attention to detail was exactly what I was looking for. I’ve seen many installs from other contractors and I couldn’t be any happier to have had such a clean looking install. The sheet metal work, ducting and venting all look fantastic. Upon completion Greg and Grant left me feeling extremely happy and very fortunate of a job well done. Thanks again Twin Tech!!

by Floreene in Whitby on Twintech Heating and Cooling

My old furnace had finally broken down for the last time when contacted twintech to have a new furnace installed…They were prompt, knowledgeable and very reasonably priced. They did such a great job i tell all my friends and family about this company.

by Damien McIsaac. Ajax on Twintech Heating and Cooling

To whom it may concern, I recently had TwinTech (Greg and Grant Dainty) replace my furnace and service both my gas fireplaces and air conditioning unit. They were professional, courteous and very fair in their pricing. I would gladly recommend TwinTech to anyone needing work done. I can be contacted at 905-626-XXXX.

by Blair N. - Toronto on Twintech Heating and Cooling

My Fiancé and I have relied on Twintech Heating and Cooling now for the better part of the last 10 years. In that time, Greg has installed a furnace, an air conditioner, and a heat-pump at our residence in Toronto. In each instance Greg and his team were a pleasure to deal with. They were courteous and professional throughout the whole process and the quality of their work is first rate. Our experiences have always been extremely positive and we have referred his services numerous times to our friends and family. Without hesitation, I would recommend Greg and TwinTech Heating and Cooling to anyone looking to service or replace their existing heat/AC equipment

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See What Our Customers Are Saying:

by Aaron on Twintech Heating and Cooling

We are very happy to recommend this company to everyone. Our furnace broke down on Sunday morning. We phoned them and before noon Grant the owner showed up. He worked on the furnace for about a hour not wanting to give up to fix the problem. The furnace was 17 years old. I was the one talking about replacing it. End result was the next day it was all done. On the Sunday Bob came over with heaters to warm up the house. We decided to replace the water heater at the same time. Thanks Grant for the excellent work. Thumbs up.

by Linda on Twintech Heating and Cooling

Right on time. Explained how to work the HRV in a different way so the house would not be so dry. Changed my whole house water filter for me as well. Friendly, helpful, caring service!

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.

by Robert Mizuno on Twintech Heating and Cooling

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!

by Ruth on Twintech Heating and Cooling

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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