When the weather turns cold, you rely on your furnace to keep your home warm and comfortable. However, if the pilot light goes out, you’ll be left in the cold. Relighting the pilot light is a relatively simple task, but it’s important to follow the steps carefully to avoid causing any damage to your furnace. In this article, we’ll provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to light the pilot light on your furnace. First, we’ll discuss the safety precautions you should take before starting.
Before you begin, it’s important to gather the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need a long-neck lighter or match, a screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. You may also want to have a flashlight handy in case you need to see better. Once you have everything you need, you can begin the process of relighting the pilot light. First, locate the access panel to the furnace. This is usually found on the front or side of the unit. Remove the access panel and locate the pilot light assembly. The pilot light is a small flame that is located near the bottom of the furnace. If the pilot light is out, you’ll need to relight it.
To relight the pilot light, follow these steps: 1) Turn off the gas supply to the furnace. This is usually done by turning a valve located near the furnace. 2) Wait five minutes for the gas to dissipate. 3) Locate the pilot light assembly. The pilot light is a small flame that is located near the bottom of the furnace. 4) Push the reset button on the pilot light assembly. This will reset the pilot light and allow you to relight it. 5) Hold a long-neck lighter or match near the pilot light. 6) Turn on the gas supply to the furnace. 7) The pilot light should ignite within a few seconds. If the pilot light does not ignite, repeat steps 4-7. Once the pilot light is lit, you can replace the access panel and turn on the furnace.
Locating the Pilot Assembly Knob
To locate the pilot assembly knob, follow these steps:
1. Open the furnace access panel.
2. Locate the gas valve. The gas valve is usually located near the bottom of the furnace.
3. The pilot assembly will be located near the gas valve. It will have a small knob with the words “pilot” or “igniter” imprinted on it.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Open the furnace access panel. |
| 2 | Locate the gas valve. |
| 3 | Identify the pilot assembly and locate the pilot assembly knob. |
Adjusting the Pilot Flame
Once the pilot flame is lit and stable, you may need to adjust its height. An improperly adjusted flame can affect the furnace’s efficiency and safety. Here’s how to adjust the pilot flame:
1. Locate the adjustment screw:
Find the adjustment screw on the gas valve that controls the pilot flame. It may be labeled “Pilot Adj” or have a similar marking.
2. Use a small screwdriver:
Insert a small flat-head screwdriver into the adjustment screw.
3. Adjust the flame height:
Turn the adjustment screw clockwise to lower the flame height or counterclockwise to increase it. The optimal flame height is typically around 1/2 to 3/4 inch tall, as specified by the furnace manufacturer.
4. Check the flame:
Once the flame is adjusted, release the screw and observe the flame. It should be a steady, blue flame with no yellow tips or flickering.
5. If necessary, relight the pilot:
If the flame goes out during the adjustment, relight the pilot according to the previous instructions.
6. Fine-tune the flame:
Repeat steps 2 and 3 until the flame reaches the desired height and stability.
7. Verify operation:
Allow the furnace to run for a few minutes to ensure the pilot flame remains stable and the furnace operates smoothly. If you notice any irregularities, repeat the adjustment process or consult a qualified technician.
Relighting a Blown-Out Pilot Light
Lighting the pilot light on a gas furnace is a common task that most homeowners can safely complete on their own. Follow these step-by-step instructions to relight the pilot light on your furnace:
- Safety Precautions: Before starting, ensure the furnace is turned off and the gas supply valve is closed. Do not attempt to relight the pilot light if you smell gas or suspect a leak.
- Locate the Pilot Light Access Panel: Find the service panel on your furnace and open it using a screwdriver or coin.
- Locate the Pilot Light: Inside the panel, you will see a small flame or a metal rod with a tiny hole at the end. This is the pilot light.
- Check the Thermocouple: If the pilot light is out, check the thermocouple, which is a small metal rod near the pilot light. If the thermocouple is broken or damaged, it may need to be replaced.
- Reset the Gas Valve: Turn the gas valve on and wait for 1-2 minutes for the gas to fill the line.
- Light the Pilot: Using a long-handled lighter or match, carefully light the pilot light by holding the flame near the gas outlet at the end of the thermocouple.
- Adjust the Flame: Once the pilot light is lit, adjust the flame to a small, blue flame. This can be done by turning the adjustment knob on the gas valve.
- Ignition: Wait a few minutes for the pilot light to establish a strong flame. If the pilot light does not ignite or stays lit for only a short time, refer to the troubleshooting tips in the table below.
| Problem | Possible Solution |
|---|---|
| Pilot light won’t ignite | – Check for a clogged gas line or blocked pilot orifice. |
| Pilot light stays lit for a short time |
– Check for a dirty flame sensor. – Replace the thermocouple. |
| Pilot light blows out |
– Adjust the flame height. – Check for drafts or strong winds. |
Maintaining the Pilot Light
Once the pilot light is ignited, it’s crucial to maintain its stability and prevent it from extinguishing. Here’s a detailed guide:
1. Observe the Flame: The pilot light should produce a steady, bluish flame. A yellow or flickering flame indicates an improper air-gas mixture or a dirty pilot assembly.
2. Adjust the Air Shutter: If the flame is yellow or flickering, adjust the air shutter on the gas valve. Open it slightly to increase airflow and adjust it until the flame turns blue.
3. Clean the Pilot Assembly: Over time, dust and debris can accumulate on the pilot assembly, affecting its ignition and stability. Remove the assembly, clean it with a soft brush or compressed air, and reassemble it.
4. Replace the Thermocouple: A thermocouple is a safety device that detects the presence of a flame and keeps the gas valve open. If the pilot light frequently extinguishes, replace the thermocouple to ensure proper flame sensing.
5. Inspect the Gas Line: Ensure there are no leaks or blockages in the gas line that supplies the pilot light. Check for any kinks, damage, or corrosion and have it repaired if necessary.
6. Check the Draft: A strong draft can extinguish the pilot light. Inspect the furnace’s vent and chimney for any blockages or obstructions that may cause excessive airflow.
7. Clean Air Filter: A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the furnace, leading to a drop in gas pressure and extinguishing the pilot light. Replace the air filter regularly.
8. Use a Pilot Light Igniter: A pilot light igniter can help light the pilot light if it’s difficult to ignite manually. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe and proper use.
9. Call a Professional: If you’re unable to maintain the pilot light or encounter persistent problems, it’s advisable to contact a qualified HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair.
10. Pilot Light Troubleshooting Table:
| Problem | Solution |
|---|---|
| Yellow or Flickering Flame | Adjust the air shutter, clean the pilot assembly |
| Frequent Extinguishment | Inspect gas line, replace thermocouple, check for draft |
| Igniter Doesn’t Work | Replace pilot light igniter, check batteries |
| Failed Self-Ignition | Contact an HVAC technician for diagnosis and repair |
How to Light a Pilot on Furnace
The pilot light is an essential component of your furnace, and if it goes out, so will your heat. Luckily, relighting a pilot light is a relatively simple process. Here’s how to do it:
1. **Safety first.** Make sure the gas supply to your furnace is turned off before you begin. You’ll also want to open a window or door to ventilate the area, just in case there is any gas leaking from the furnace.
2. **Locate the pilot light.** The pilot light is usually located on the bottom or side of the furnace. It’s a small, blue flame that burns continuously to ignite the main burners when you turn on the furnace.
3. **Light the pilot light.** Once you’ve located the pilot light, use a long match or lighter to ignite it. Hold the flame to the pilot light for about 30 seconds, or until the flame stays lit on its own.
4. **Turn on the gas supply.** Once the pilot light is lit, turn the gas supply back on. You should hear a “whoosh” sound as the gas flows into the furnace.
5. **Turn on the furnace.** Once the gas is flowing, turn on the furnace. You should hear the main burners ignite and the furnace start to blow warm air.
If you’re having trouble lighting the pilot light, there are a few things you can check:
– Make sure the gas supply is turned on.
– Make sure the pilot light is clean. If it’s dirty, clean it with a soft brush or cloth.
– Make sure the thermocouple is positioned correctly. The thermocouple is a small metal rod that senses the presence of the pilot light. If it’s not positioned correctly, it won’t send a signal to the gas valve to open.
