Presenting serious fire and health hazards, a pilot light that won’t stay on is anything but safe. Here are some of the most common reasons that furnace pilot lights malfunction, creating a potentially dangerous situation in Lake Zurich, IL.
Failing Thermocouple
The thermocouple in your furnace is an electrical instrument that measures the temperature. When the temperature falls below the thermostat setting, it generates a small voltage that holds the gas valve open, supplying gas to the pilot light. Immersed in the pilot flame, the device is subject to failure over time. A qualified HVAC technician can replace a deteriorating thermocouple and rectify the problem.
Faulty Gas Valve
Furnaces with standard pilot lights work by constantly burning a small amount of gas supplied by the system’s gas valve. A valve that doesn’t allow enough gas to reach the pilot light will cause the flame to go out. Because debris inside the valve prevents oxygen from reaching the pilot light, gas valves that don’t receive regular maintenance are particularly subject to failure.
Compromised Flame Sensor
Forgoing annual maintenance can also cause the flame sensor to malfunction. A sensor that’s worn out or covered with dirt, grime or dust can cause the gas burner as well as the pilot light to fail. Studies have shown that dirt and neglect are the primary reasons that HVAC systems malfunction.
Annual tune-ups performed by skilled HVAC technicians include cleaning components such as the thermocouple, gas valve and flame sensor. Scheduling regular maintenance is the most effective thing you can do to ensure your furnace works safely and efficiently when you most need warmth and comfort.
If the pilot light in your furnace won’t stay lit, don’t wait. Safeguard your health, safety and comfort by calling Martin Enterprises Heating and Air Conditioning at the first sign of a problem. Since 1992, our team of professionals has been proud to provide heating services to our customers and neighbors in Lake Zurich, IL, and the surrounding area.
