How to Address Common Pilot Light Problems When the appliance is turned on, the pilot light ignites gas that is released by the main burner into the appliance.
The pilot light should be left on at all times, though some people do extinguish the light in gas fireplaces during the summer months. The pilot light plays a critical role in the operation of these gas-powered appliances. If the light goes out, you will not be able to ignite and run these appliances. The good news is that in most cases the pilot light can be easily relit.
Reasons the Pilot Light May Extinguish
If the pilot light goes out, you will first want to identify what caused the flame to go out. This may be as simple as high winds or a draft in the area, which is often the basement or a closet when referring to your furnace and hot water heater. When it gets too drafty, the air can cause the light to go out. This is the easiest fix, as eliminating the draft and relighting the flame will correct the problem. In other cases, the flame may be set too small. This can make it easier to extinguish even with small drafts nearby.
Adjusting the size of the flame and relighting the pilot light should correct the problem. Be sure to check the owner’s manual for instructions on changing the size of the flame prior to making any adjustments. The accumulation of dirt and soot may also cause a pilot light to go out. Carefully cleaning the area to remove this dirt can help the pilot light to stay lit.
When an Extinguished Pilot Light Requires a Professional
Low gas pressure or blockage can cause the pilot light to extinguish. A malfunctioning thermocouple or bad gas valve may also be the source of this problem. A flame that will not relight or stay lit may also be caused by a cracked heat exchanger or improper venting of the appliance. If even when relighting the pilot light, it continues to extinguish or will not light, you should have a technician investigate the problem further.
If you are not able to relight the pilot light on your furnace or water heater or it continues to extinguish after a short time, a Joyce Cooling & Heating Technician can help to identify the problem.
