Pilot Light Problems? How to Know if Your Furnace Needs Repair

Many gas furnaces have pilot lights, and if that light is out, the furnace won't heat. Starting it up isn't too hard, and the directions are typically posted on the furnace where they are easily found. But if your pilot light continues to go out, you may be in need of furnace repair. Here are some of the common reasons for pilot light problems.

1. The gas is off. Maybe you forgot you turned it off for the summer, or it got switched off for some other reason. This is a best-case scenario, since it usually just means turning the knob to the "on" position.
2. A downdraft blows out the pilot light. Sometimes this can be weather related, in high wind situations, but it shouldn't be the norm. If a downdraft is a common problem, something probably needs an adjustment.
3. Improper venting. There needs to be some oxygen in the area, otherwise a flame will be snuffed out. There needs to be a balance between oxygen coming in, and carbon monoxide escaping.
4. A thermocouple needs replacement. A thermocouple is a sensor designed to measure temperature. These have a finite life span, and when one goes, the pilot won't light or won't stay lit. It can be easily replaced by a Summit NJ heating repair professional and isn't a large investment.
5. Cracked heat exchanger. If this is the issue, then you don't just have a pilot light problem, but an elevated risk for carbon monoxide poisoning, so this warrants an immediate call for help.

If you're having pilot light problems, there are a variety of reasons, some of which may not be too costly to fix. But newer furnaces don't even have pilot lights, so the fact that you have one might imply that you're looking at an older furnace. It's always a good idea to have an inspection done on your heating system each year before the cold weather arrives to make sure it's ready to keep you and your family warm.