Why Does My Furnace Pilot Light Keep Going Out?

Gas furnaces have a small flame called a pilot light that can sometimes go out. Sometimes, it can be re-lit, but if your furnace pilot light keeps going out repeatedly, it could indicate a bigger issue or even a safety hazard. 

Read on to discover why your pilot light might be going out, what you should do if it happens, and when to call the experts at Dugan Air for assistance.

What Does a Furnace Pilot Light Do?

The pilot light in your furnace is a small flame that provides a consistent ignition source. When the thermostat signals the furnace to turn on, the gas valve releases gas and the pilot light ignites it, starting the heating process. 

Common Reasons Why Your Furnace Pilot Light Keeps Going Out

Here are some of the most common reasons your pilot light is going out.

You’ve run out of gas

The light needs a consistent supply of gas to stay lit, so a lack of flame may indicate that you’re low on fuel or there’s an issue with the gas supply preventing the gas from reaching the pilot light. 

There’s an electrical issue 

Sometimes, wiring can come loose in your furnace. If this happens, the pilot light won’t light when it needs to. An expert HVAC technician can diagnose this problem. 

You have a faulty thermocouple

If your thermocouple is damaged or not working properly, it will prevent the gas from reaching your pilot light. A faulty thermocouple can be fixed or replaced by a professional.

It’s dirty

Sometimes, the issue is as simple as soot or carbon blocking the fuel line in the pilot light. A quick cleaning might get your pilot back in good working order, but if it keeps going out, call for help.

The fuel line is damaged

If the fuel line is blocked or damaged, gas can’t flow freely, preventing the pilot light from staying lit. The line may need to be professionally cleaned or changed. A damaged gas line can be a serious safety hazard, so if you suspect a gas leak, follow emergency procedures and then call an expert for help.

What To Do When Your Pilot Light Is Out

When your furnace pilot light is out, you should first turn the pilot light reset switch to the OFF position. Wait at least five minutes for the gas to dissipate from the chamber, then turn the knob to PILOT, hold the reset button down, and light the flame. The light should fire up right away and stay steady.

Once the pilot light is relit, turn the gas control back to ON. If it goes out again, it’s time to call for professional furnace servicing.

When To Call a Professional for Pilot Light Issues

When your pilot light keeps going out, your furnace can’t work properly. It may also indicate a serious issue with your gas supply. Call a professional if you smell gas or a rotten egg odor or if the pilot light is split, flickering, weak, or burning yellow or orange instead of blue. 

Preventive Tips to Keep Your Pilot Light Lit

The best way to ensure your pilot light stays lit and your furnace works well year-round is to keep up with preventative maintenance. Scheduling regular service with our HVAC team helps keep your fuel lines clean and allows us to check out all the important parts of your furnace to ensure your pilot light stays lit. You can relax knowing your furnace is ready for another chilly winter and maybe even save some money on your next energy bill. 

Some DIY solutions include ensuring there are no drafty doors or windows near your furnace. If you have a gas furnace, check if you have enough fuel in the tank. If you’re unsure what the issue is, call Dugan Air for assistance.

Call Dugan Air for HVAC Service 

If your furnace pilot light won’t stay lit, contact the team at Dugan. We offer furnace maintenance, repairs, and replacement services throughout the Johnson County area, including Morgantown, Martinsville, Columbus, and Bargersville. Our team cares about our community, and we’ll do everything we can to make sure you and your family stay safe and comfortable in your home year-round. 

Don’t let your old furnace pilot light or a strange furnace noise stress you out. Call us and we’ll fix the problem fast. When it comes to HVAC systems, we offer premium, customer-focused care. If you want to experience the Dugan difference, schedule your service call today and find out why our service stands out from the rest. We’re the HVAC provider that Indiana homeowners trust.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my thermocouple is bad on my furnace?

If your pilot light ignites but then goes out after you let go of the gas control knob, or if you notice your pilot light keeps going out for no discernible reason, it’s likely a thermocouple issue. It could be dirty or defective. 

Is it easy to replace a thermocouple?

Replacing a thermocouple can take a few hours and involves disconnecting gas lines. This type of job has safety risks, so we recommend calling a professional to replace your furnace thermocouple.