When a pilot light occasionally goes out, it isn’t a serious issue. However, if your pilot light goes out repeatedly or doesn’t relight, it may indicate a bigger problem. The purpose of this post is to explain why your pilot light went out, what it might mean, and how to fix it. Relighting your pilot light is an important skill to have as a homeowner.
The process isn’t difficult, and your furnace may include instructions to help you. It is always recommended that you leave furnace repair, installation, and maintenance issues to the experts. GE Home Services is here to help for furnace repair in Phoenix and the surrounding areas. A DIY can cause injury or damage to your home or furnace if you do not have the proper training.
Why Would My Pilot Light Go Out?
There are several reasons why your pilot light may go out. The causes of some problems can be rectified quickly, while others require a little more effort.
Airflow Issues
A small gust of air may blow out your pilot light. It is possible to relight your pilot light or call a professional for assistance in this case. You may notice this if a strong wind or one of your furnace ducts leaks air. It can cause a draft or allow wind into your furnace if your flue or chimney is damaged, improperly installed, or not sized correctly.
Your Gas Has Been Shut Off
The pilot light relies on natural gas to stay lit, so if the gas is shut off, the light will go out. It is as simple as turning your gas back on and relighting your pilot light yourself.
Your Furnace Needs Cleaning
Pilot orifices are small holes in gas pipes that supply pilot lights with fuel. If they are dirty, they can interfere with the pilot light’s ability to burn. The pilot light may not be able to get enough fuel to sustain itself if it keeps going out. Pilot lights should be bright blue, not red or yellow.
A red or yellow flame indicates that your pilot light isn’t receiving enough fuel. You can even reduce your heating bill by regularly keeping your furnace clean, reducing wear and tear on its components. At least once a year, you should have a professional perform a maintenance appointment and duct cleaning on your furnace.
A Loose Or Faulty Thermocouple
When your pilot light fails to turn on, it may signify that your thermocouple has become loose or faulty. If this is the case, the thermocouple will need to be tightened or replaced.
A Temporary Gas Shortage
There is a possibility that the problem is not with your furnace at all. As a result of high natural gas demand, the supply may be stretched, leaving a little less to go around. You may lose your pilot light if your furnace cannot receive enough natural gas. Contact GE Home Services for a professional furnace repair in Tempe, AZ and the surrounding areas.
Conclusion
Consult with one of our professionals for HVAC repair in Tempe, AZ, when in doubt. If furnace maintenance or repair work is not done properly, carbon monoxide will be leaked. Everyone isn’t a furnace repair expert, so if you need help navigating your furnace, GE Home Services is here to help.
