When the weather turns cold, your furnace plays a crucial role in keeping your home warm and cozy. However, if your pilot light has gone out, your furnace won’t be able to produce heat. Don’t worry! Relighting a furnace pilot light is usually a simple task that you can handle on your own. This guide will walk you through the process step by step, so you can get your furnace back up and running in no time.
What Is a Pilot Light, and Why Does It Matter?
The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the burners in older gas furnaces. Without it, your furnace won’t produce heat. If your pilot light goes out, it could be due to:
- A draft blowing it out.
- A dirty or faulty thermocouple.
- A temporary interruption in your gas supply.
Before relighting the pilot light, it’s important to ensure that there are no major issues with your furnace or gas line.
Step 1: Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you start, you may need a few basic items:
- A flashlight (to see into dark spaces).
- Long fireplace matches or a long-nosed lighter.
- Your furnace’s user manual (if available).
Step 2: Locate the Pilot Light
The pilot light is typically found near the bottom of the furnace, beneath a removable panel. Look for a knob or dial labeled “Pilot,” “On,” and “Off,” along with a small gas valve and burner assembly. If you’re unsure, consult your furnace’s manual or look for a diagram on the furnace itself.
Location by furnace type:
- Floor furnaces: Located in the center underneath the burners
- Wall furnaces: Located behind the bottom grill panel
- Forced-air furnaces: Located near the main burner tray
Step 3: Turn Off the Furnace
For safety, turn off your furnace before relighting the pilot light. Set the thermostat to the “Off” position and wait a few minutes for any residual gas to dissipate.
Step 4: Turn the Gas Control Knob to “Off”
Find the gas control knob near the pilot light assembly and turn it to the “Off” position. This stops the flow of gas to the pilot light, ensuring your safety during the relighting process. Wait at least 5 minutes to allow any lingering gas to clear out.
Step 5: Switch the Gas Control Knob to “Pilot”
After waiting, turn the gas control knob to the “Pilot” position. This setting allows gas to flow only to the pilot light. Don’t skip this step, as attempting to light the pilot with the gas valve in the wrong position can be dangerous.
Step 6: Light the Pilot Light
Here’s where you’ll need your lighter or matches. Follow these steps:
- Press and hold the gas control knob in the “Pilot” position to start the flow of gas.
- While holding the knob, use a long match or lighter to ignite the pilot light.
- Keep holding the knob for 30-60 seconds after the flame is lit. This allows the thermocouple to heat up and signal the gas valve to stay open.
If the pilot light doesn’t stay lit, try again. If it still won’t stay lit after several attempts, there may be an issue with the thermocouple or gas supply, and you should call a professional.
Step 7: Turn the Gas Control Knob to “On”
Once the pilot light is lit and stable, turn the gas control knob to the “On” position. You should hear a faint click as the burners ignite. Replace the furnace panel if you removed it earlier.
Step 8: Turn the Furnace Back On
Now that the pilot light is lit, set your thermostat to your desired temperature. Your furnace should begin producing heat shortly.
Safety Tips for Relighting a Pilot Light
- Ventilate the area: If you smell gas before starting, open windows and doors to ventilate the space. Do not attempt to light the pilot light if you suspect a gas leak; instead, call your gas company immediately.
- Avoid forcing the knob: If the gas control knob won’t turn, don’t force it. This could damage the valve.
- Know when to call a professional: If the pilot light won’t stay lit or you’re uncomfortable with the process, contact an HVAC technician for assistance.
Why Do Pilot Lights Go Out?
Pilot lights can go out for several reasons, including:
- Drafts: A strong gust of air can blow out the flame.
- Dirty pilot tube: Dust and debris can block the gas flow.
- Faulty thermocouple: This safety device may need replacement if it’s not functioning properly.
- Low gas pressure: An issue with your gas line can prevent the pilot light from staying lit.
Regular maintenance of your furnace can help prevent these issues and keep your pilot light burning reliably.
Relighting your furnace pilot light might seem intimidating at first, but it’s a straightforward process when done carefully. By following these steps, you can restore warmth to your home in no time. If you encounter any issues or feel uncertain, don’t hesitate to call a professional. After all, safety comes first. Stay warm and cozy this winter!
