How Do I Relight My Pilot Light? - Parker's Heating & Cooling

The furnace’s pilot light ignites the burners and starts the heating process. Pilot lights were once standard on all gas furnaces, but newer systems don’t always contain pilot light ignition systems. Instead, some newer furnaces use electronic ignition systems.

If your pilot light goes out, your furnace will not be able to produce heat because its burners will not ignite. Often, homeowners can relight the pilot themselves. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to relight a gas furnace’s pilot light.

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How To Relight a Pilot Light: 5 Easy Steps

1. Find the pilot light assembly and its reset switch.

The furnace’s pilot light is usually positioned at the bottom of the unit by a knob. The knob is typically marked with three settings:

1. Pilot
2. On
3. Off

If you can’t easily find the pilot light and reset switch, look in your furnace’s manual for a diagram that indicates its location. If you can’t find the physical manual, check the manufacturer’s website online.

2. Set the reset switch to off.

Turn the knob to the “Off” setting. You should be able to adjust it easily using your fingers. This stops the flow of gas.

3. Wait a moment.

It’s important to allow a bit of time to pass from turning off the pilot before attempting to relight it. This lets the gas dissipate from the chamber so you don’t ignite excess gas when relighting the pilot light. A minute to two minutes is sufficient.

4. Relight the pilot light.

Turn the knob to “Pilot,” and let gas to flow to the pilot. Light a lighter or match, then push in the reset button. Hold your flame to the pilot light’s opening. Keep the reset switch depressed until the pilot light is burning steadily. Then, release the button.

5. Observe the furnace.

Once the pilot light is relit and you’ve released the reset button, your furnace should fire up automatically. Observe the pilot light for a few moments to ensure it stays lit. Check the surrounding areas for drafts or other air sources that could have extinguished the pilot light initially.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Q: Why does my pilot light keep going out?
  • A: Drafts, dirty components, or a faulty thermocouple can cause the pilot light to go out repeatedly. A professional technician should inspect the furnace to find the exact cause.
• Q: Is it safe to relight my furnace pilot light myself?
  • A: Yes, if you follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. However, if you smell gas, cannot locate the pilot assembly, or the light won’t stay lit, call a licensed HVAC technician immediately.
• Q: Do all furnaces have pilot lights?
  • A: No. Many modern furnaces use electronic ignition systems instead of pilot lights. If you’re unsure, check your owner’s manual or consult an HVAC professional.

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If your furnace pilot light keeps going out or won’t relight, don’t wait for the cold to creep in. Call Parker’s Heating & Cooling at 629-281-8808 or schedule service online for fast, reliable furnace repair in Murfreesboro and the surrounding areas.

We’re here for you, ready to help you with your pilot light and any other furnace repair you may need for your home or business in or around Murfreesboro, TN. We also invite you to check out our special offers and join our Comfort Club to benefit from great savings while getting reliable, top-quality commercial and residential HVAC services throughout Rutherford County, TN!