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Your furnace’s pilot light provides the flame for igniting the gas and warming the heating element. From time to time, the light may go out, which doesn’t necessarily mean serious trouble. However, if you try to relight the pilot without success, you may need HVAC repairs from a professional contractor. Here’s a closer look at why this happens.

Why Do Pilot Lights Frequently Go Out?

1. Drafts

Drafty doors or windows near your furnace may cause the pilot light to blow out, especially on particularly cold and windy days. If this is a recurring issue, seal cracks around windows with caulk and close gaps beneath doors with weatherstripping. 

2. Broken Thermocouple 

HVAC contractorYour furnace’s thermocouple acts as a flame sensor. When it detects the flame, it allows gas to flow into your heating unit. If your pilot light won’t stay lit, there may be something preventing the thermocouple from detecting the flame. Hire an HVAC contractor to clean, reposition, or replace this part. 

3. Natural Gas Shortage 

Your pilot light uses a small amount of natural gas to stay on, so there could be an inadequate supply of gas to the unit. Ask your utility company to check your natural gas meter for a bad regulator and your HVAC contractor to inspect the furnace’s intake valves for blockages. 

4. Dirt Buildup

The immediate vicinity of the pilot light may collect debris and grime over time, blocking the flow of gas and preventing it from igniting. Use compressed air to remove dirt and dust. If it still won’t light, schedule an HVAC repair appointment to ensure a more thorough cleaning of your furnace.

 

Keep your home warm and cozy throughout the cold months with help from the team at Arc Electric Air Conditioning and Heating. This HVAC contractor offers heating system repairs, installations, and maintenance to customers throughout the Wilder, KY, area. Call (859) 441-7161 to get an estimate on HVAC repairs and book an appointment. Visit the website to learn more about the company’s services. 

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