How to Light the Furnace Pilot Light: A Complete Guide: 1 Minute to Igniting Your Furnace With Ease

Lighting the furnace pilot light is a critical home maintenance skill, especially when the weather turns cold. The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the burners when your furnace operates. If it goes out, your heating system will stop working, and—you guessed it—the house could get uncomfortably chilly. Below is a step-by-step guide to safely and effectively relight your furnace pilot light.

Step 1: Safety First

Before attempting to light the pilot, always turn off the furnace and wait several minutes to allow any residual gas to dissipate. Locate the gas valve and turn the knob to the "off" position. Open windows or doors for ventilation if necessary.

Step 2: Locate Your Pilot Light Assembly

Open the furnace access panel. Find the pilot light assembly, which typically has a small gas tube leading to it and is near the burners. Some models provide clear labeling; if in doubt, consult the manufacturer's manual.

Step 3: Set the Controls

Turn the gas valve to the "pilot" position. Some furnaces use a red reset button. Press and hold it as this releases gas specifically to the pilot area—not to the burners.

Step 4: Ignite the Pilot Light

While holding the reset button, use a long matchstick or a long-nose lighter to reach the pilot opening. Light the flame and continue to hold the button for 30 seconds to allow the thermocouple to heat up and confirm a steady pilot flame.

Step 5: Return Settings to Normal

Once you've confirmed the flame stays lit on its own, release the button and turn the valve back to the "on" position. Replace the access panel. Set your thermostat to the desired temperature and wait to see if the furnace engages and operates as expected.

Step 6: Troubleshooting

If the pilot won’t stay lit, the cause may be a faulty thermocouple, dirty pilot orifice, or insufficient gas supply. In such cases, call a professional for safe diagnosis and repairs.

As a designer, I can't help but notice how the smallest elements—such as the glow of a pilot light—impact the ambiance and safety of your home. If you’re planning a renovation or upgrading your living space, it’s worth considering how components like furnaces, fixtures, and even lighting interact with your overall home design for both aesthetics and functionality.

Tips 1:

Regularly schedule furnace maintenance checks before the cold season arrives. Clean or replace filters, inspect for gas leaks, and test the pilot light to ensure efficient, reliable heating in your home.

FAQ

Q: Why does my furnace pilot light keep going out?

A: Common reasons include a dirty pilot opening, a malfunctioning thermocouple, or issues with gas pressure.

Q: Is it safe to relight my furnace pilot light myself?

A: Yes, if you follow proper safety steps. Always wait for gas to dissipate and consult your manual. If unsure, call a professional.

Q: What do I do if the pilot light won’t stay lit?

A: Try cleaning the pilot orifice and check the thermocouple. If problems persist, contact a service technician.

Q: How often should I check my furnace pilot light?

A: Check before each heating season and during regular furnace maintenance.

Q: Can the pilot light affect my home’s energy efficiency?

A: Yes. A malfunctioning pilot can lead to inefficient heating and higher energy bills, so regular checks are essential.