If your furnace pilot light keeps going out, you're not alone. This frustrating problem can leave your home chilly and uncomfortable, especially during the coldest months. The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the burners in your furnace. If it won't stay lit, your furnace won't function properly, leaving you without heat when you need it most.
Understanding why your furnace pilot light won't stay lit is crucial for both homeowners and renters. In this guide, we'll explain the most common causes of this issue, provide easy-to-follow troubleshooting steps, and help you decide when to call in a professional. If you live in Sandy Springs, Roswell, or Alpharetta, GA, The Air Company of GA is here to help—call 470-291-5423 to schedule a service today!
Why Your Furnace Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
A Faulty or Dirty Thermocouple
The thermocouple is a safety device that detects whether the pilot light is lit. If it senses no flame, it automatically shuts off the gas supply to prevent a leak. When the thermocouple is dirty, misaligned, or broken, it can incorrectly shut off the gas, causing the pilot light to blow out when the furnace kicks on.
How to Fix It:
Turn off the gas and power supply.
Locate the thermocouple (it's a thin copper rod near the pilot light).
Use a fine-grit sandpaper or a dollar bill to clean off any dirt or debris.
Ensure the thermocouple is properly positioned in the flame.
If cleaning doesn't work, you may need to replace the thermocouple.
A Dirty Pilot Orifice
If the pilot flame is weak or yellow, dirt or debris may be blocking the orifice, preventing the flame from staying strong enough to keep the thermocouple engaged.
How to Fix It:
Turn off the gas and power.
Use a needle or compressed air to clean out any blockages in the pilot orifice.
Relight the pilot and check if the flame is steady and blue.
Bad Gas Regulator
If your gas furnace pilot light won't stay lit, and you're also experiencing issues with other gas appliances (like your stove or water heater), the problem might be a faulty gas regulator in your home's gas meter.
Solution: Contact your gas utility provider to inspect and replace the regulator if necessary.
Fluctuating Natural Gas Supply
During peak demand (like very cold days), your local gas supply might fluctuate, causing brief interruptions that extinguish the pilot light.
Solution: Ask your neighbors if they're experiencing similar issues. If so, your local gas company may need to address the problem.
Improper Airflow or Drafts
A strong draft near your furnace can cause the pilot light to go out. This often happens in homes with improper venting, leaks in the furnace's ductwork, or an open window nearby.
How to Fix It:
Check for and seal any air leaks near the furnace.
Ensure the furnace room isn't overly drafty.
Keep all air registers open and unobstructed.
Additional Troubleshooting Tips
If you're still experiencing issues, here are some additional steps to take:
Check Your Furnace Filter - A clogged air filter can cause the furnace to overheat and shut off.
Inspect the Pilot Flame - It should be strong and blue. A weak, flickering, or yellow flame indicates a problem.
Test the Gas Valve - If your pilot light won't stay lit at all, the gas valve might be failing.
Look for Furnace Error Codes - Many modern furnaces have LED indicators that blink in a pattern to indicate what's wrong.
Call a Professional - If you've tried everything and the problem persists, it's best to get expert help.
When to Call a Professional
If your furnace pilot light keeps going out repeatedly, and troubleshooting hasn't solved the issue, it's time to call a professional HVAC technician. Persistent problems could indicate a deeper issue, such as a faulty gas valve, a cracked heat exchanger, or a more significant airflow problem.
For residents in Sandy Springs, Roswell, and Alpharetta, GA, The Air Company of GA is ready to help. Don't spend another cold night without heat—call 470-291-5423 today or schedule an appointment online for a fast, reliable furnace repair!
