Experts Reveal: Is Furnace Pilot Light Always On?

Is your furnace pilot light always on? It’s a common question homeowners ask, especially during those chilly winter months when the furnace is working overtime. The answer, however, isn’t as straightforward as a simple yes or no.

Understanding the role of the pilot light and how it functions within your heating system is crucial for troubleshooting potential issues and ensuring your home stays warm and comfortable. This blog post will dive into the intricacies of furnace pilot lights, explaining when they should be on, why they might go out, and how you can keep them burning bright.

The Purpose of the Pilot Light

The pilot light is a small, constantly burning flame that acts as the ignition source for your furnace. It sits within the gas valve and provides a continuous spark to ignite the main burner when your thermostat calls for heat. Essentially, it’s the spark that sets off a chain reaction to warm your home.

Types of Furnaces and Pilot Lights

Not all furnaces rely on pilot lights. Modern high-efficiency furnaces often utilize electronic ignition systems, eliminating the need for a constantly burning flame. However, older furnaces, particularly those using natural gas, frequently employ pilot lights.

When Should the Pilot Light Be On?

The pilot light should be on whenever your furnace is in standby mode. This means that even when the thermostat isn‘t calling for heat, the pilot light should be burning steadily, ready to ignite the main burner when needed.

Why Does the Pilot Light Go Out?

A flickering or extinguished pilot light can be a sign of several problems:

• Low Gas Pressure: Insufficient gas flow can cause the flame to weaken or die out completely.
• Clogged Pilot Tube: Dirt or debris can obstruct the flow of gas to the pilot light, interrupting the flame.
• Draft Issues: Strong drafts or air currents near the furnace can blow out the pilot light.
• Faulty Thermocouple: This safety device senses the pilot light flame and shuts off gas flow if the flame goes out. A faulty thermocouple might not detect the flame, causing the gas to shut off.
• Loose Connections: Loose connections in the gas line or pilot tube can disrupt gas flow.

How to Relight a Pilot Light

If your pilot light has gone out, you can usually relight it yourself. However, always follow these safety precautions:

1. Turn off the gas supply to the furnace. This is usually a valve located near the furnace.
2. Locate the pilot light. It’s typically found near the gas valve, often behind a small access panel.
3. Clean the pilot tube. Use a wire brush or a small pipe cleaner to remove any dirt or debris.
4. Hold a lit match or lighter near the pilot light. Carefully ignite the pilot light.
5. Hold the flame for several seconds. This allows the thermocouple to heat up and sense the flame.
6. Turn the gas supply back on. The pilot light should stay lit.

When to Call a Professional

While relighting a pilot light is a relatively simple task, there are times when it’s best to call a professional:

• If you can’t relight the pilot light. Multiple attempts to relight the pilot light may indicate a more serious issue.
• If the pilot light keeps going out. Recurring problems with the pilot light suggest a potential gas leak or a faulty component.
• If you smell gas. A gas leak is a serious safety hazard and requires immediate professional attention.

Keeping Your Pilot Light Burning Bright

Here are some tips to help prevent your pilot light from going out:

• Regularly check the pilot light. Make sure it’s burning steadily and that the flame is blue and consistent.
• Clean the pilot tube and burner. Accumulated dirt and debris can interfere with gas flow.
• Avoid drafts. Ensure adequate ventilation around the furnace to prevent drafts from blowing out the pilot light.
• Have your furnace inspected annually. A professional can check for any potential problems and ensure your furnace is operating safely and efficiently.

Your Furnace Pilot Light: A Vital Component

The pilot light, despite its small size, plays a vital role in your furnace’s operation. Understanding its function and addressing any issues promptly can help ensure your home stays warm and comfortable throughout the year. Remember, if you’re ever unsure about your furnace or pilot light, don’t hesitate to contact a qualified HVAC professional.

Frequently Discussed Topics

Q: Why does my pilot light flicker?

A: A flickering pilot light can indicate low gas pressure, a clogged pilot tube, or a draft. It’s essential to address these issues promptly to prevent the flame from going out completely.

Q: Is it safe to relight a pilot light myself?

A: Yes, it is generally safe to relight a pilot light yourself, but always follow safety precautions like turning off the gas supply to the furnace and using a long-handled lighter. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable, it’s always best to call a professional.

Q: How often should I check my pilot light?

A: Regularly checking your pilot light, at least once a month, is a good practice. This ensures that it’s burning steadily and helps identify any potential problems early on.

Q: Is there a way to prevent the pilot light from going out?

A: While you can’t completely eliminate the possibility of the pilot light going out, proper maintenance, like cleaning the pilot tube and burner, and addressing draft issues, can help minimize the risk.

Q: What are the signs of a faulty pilot light?

A: A faulty pilot light might exhibit symptoms like a flickering flame, an inconsistent flame, or a flame that goes out frequently. If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to call a professional for inspection and repair.