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Furnace Pilot Light Malfunctioning
Posted On: December 29, 2024
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
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Dirty Pilot Orifice
Dust, debris, or soot can clog the pilot orifice, reducing or extinguishing the flame.
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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.
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Drafts or Airflow Problems
Strong drafts near the furnace can blow out the pilot light.
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Gas Supply Issues
Insufficient gas pressure or a gas valve issue can prevent the pilot from staying lit.
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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
- Turn off the furnace and wait for gas to dissipate (5-10 minutes).
- Locate the pilot light assembly and turn the gas control knob to "Pilot."
- Hold down the reset button and use a long lighter to ignite the flame.
- 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
- Schedule annual furnace maintenance.
- Keep the pilot light assembly clean.
- Regularly check for drafts and airflow issues.
- 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:
Aug 8, 2025
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.
Aug 8, 2025
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!
Feb 18, 2025
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.
Feb 18, 2025
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!
Feb 18, 2025
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!
Feb 18, 2025
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!
Feb 18, 2025
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.
Aug 17, 2024
I returned from vacation to find my AC unit on the Fritz. After calling way too many places I connected with TwinTech. Ive used the company in the past for my furnace so I was happy when I recognized Greg at my front door. Hes great and the service is always top notch. Id highly recommend using twintech for honest, superior service in the Durham region. Thanks!
Aug 13, 2024
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!!
Aug 12, 2024
Just hired TwinTech Heating & Cooling to do an A/C Unit removal & reinstall to allow for landscaping access on the side of my house, and they were wonderful!
Bob, Greg & Mitch make a great team! Quick appointment times, super knowledgeable, expert troubleshooting capabilities & very customer service oriented.
I would highly recommend them for all of your HVAC needs! Great job guys!!
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