Introduction: On a chilly day, there’s nothing more inconvenient than discovering that your furnace isn’t producing heat. One common culprit is a pilot light that has gone out. While it may seem like a daunting task, relighting your furnace pilot light is a manageable DIY task that can save you from a cold home. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps to safely and effectively relight your pilot light.
Step 1: Safety First
Before you begin, ensure you prioritize safety. Turn off the gas valve and wait for at least five minutes to allow any residual gas to disperse. If you smell gas, do not attempt to light the pilot; instead, evacuate your home and call your gas company.
Step 2: Locate the Pilot Light
Find your furnace’s pilot light assembly. It’s typically located near the bottom of the furnace and can be identified by a small, usually blue, flame.
Step 3: Access the Pilot Light
Remove the access panel to reach the pilot light. This panel is often secured with screws, so have a screwdriver on hand.
Step 4: Identify the Pilot Control Knob
Locate the pilot control knob. This knob typically has three settings: “Off,” “On,” and “Pilot.” Set the knob to “Off.”
Step 5: Wait for Gas to Disperse
Wait for a few minutes to ensure any lingering gas dissipates.
Step 6: Set the Pilot Control Knob to “Pilot”
Turn the pilot control knob to the “Pilot” setting. Depress the knob to allow gas to flow to the pilot.
Step 7: Ignite the Pilot
While holding down the pilot control knob, use a long lighter or match to ignite the pilot. Continue holding the knob for about 30 seconds after the pilot lights to allow the thermocouple to heat up
Step 8: Set the Pilot Control Knob to “On”
Release the pilot control knob and set it to the “On” position.
Step 9: Replace the Access Panel
Secure the access panel back in place, ensuring it is properly sealed.
Step 10: Check for Consistent Flame
Observe the pilot flame. It should be a steady, blue flame. If the flame is yellow or flickering, it may indicate an issue, and you should consult a professional.
Step 11: Monitor Your Furnace
Once you’ve successfully relit the pilot light, monitor your furnace to ensure it ignites and functions properly. If you encounter any issues or if the pilot light continues to go out, it’s recommended to contact a licensed HVAC professional for a thorough inspection and repair.
Relighting a furnace pilot light is a straightforward process that can often be done without professional assistance. By following these steps and prioritizing safety, you can restore warmth to your home and tackle this common heating issue with confidence. If you encounter difficulties or if the problem persists, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of Anton’s qualified HVAC technicians for further assistance. Stay warm!
