Why Does Your Furnace's Pilot Light Keep Going Out? | Triad Sheet Metal
- By ppc@rynoss.com
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- 21 Dec, 2022
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Older furnaces typically utilize a standing pilot light. Unfortunately, this type of pilot light is prone to going out at random due to strong breezes or thermocouple issues. Keep reading to learn more about what may be affecting your furnace's pilot light.
Faulty Thermocouple
A thermocouple is in charge of detecting when the pilot light is on. This component sends a signal to keep the gas line open, enabling your furnace to heat the home when necessary. If the thermocouple is faulty, it may think that the pilot light has gone out when it hasn't. It will then shut off the gas supply, which turns off the pilot. Rely on a professional technician to determine if the thermocouple needs to be cleaned or replaced.
Dirty Pilot Light Opening
Your pilot light may also struggle to stay lit if the tube that connects it to the gas supply is dirty or obstructed. Accumulated dust and dirt can block the flow of gas, which prevents your pilot light from burning fuel efficiently. Regularly scheduling HVAC maintenance makes sure this part is routinely cleaned and inspected for damage.
Strong, Consistent Drafts
It's also possible your pilot light is being subjected to strong drafts. You may have fans down in your basement or frequently open and close doors near your furnace. If your pilot light is going out because of a draft, you should have no issue relighting it. However, if it's not staying lit, there's likely another underlying issue that should be professionally evaluated.
Trusted Local Indoor Comfort Company
Triad Sheet Metal Heating & Cooling has been offering reputable HVAC services in Greensboro, NC, since 1990. We use the best tools and years of knowledge and training to improve your family's comfort and safety. Trust us to repair or replace your furnace, heat pump, or air conditioner. We're also ready to install quality air purification and ventilation systems. Call Triad Sheet Metal Heating and Cooling today to ask about our 24/7 emergency repair service.
All furnaces should be serviced and maintained regularly to make sure that they continue heating effectively and efficiently. If you want to lessen the chances of your furnace breaking down over the winter, you should always have your furnace professionally serviced every year. In this post, we're going to discuss why furnace maintenance is important and what it involves.
The Importance of Yearly Furnace Maintenance
Furnace maintenance is essential for your safety. It helps to prevent possible fire hazards and carbon monoxide leaks. The technician servicing your equipment will always check that everything is functioning properly to ensure the furnace will automatically shut down if it overheats or experiences a safety issue. Maintenance is also important for the life of your furnace, ensuring it lasts anywhere from 15 to 30 years. It can also save you money by lowering your heating costs and helping to avoid costly repairs later on.
What Does Furnace Maintenance Entail?
Maintaining a furnace involves inspecting, cleaning and testing all of your heating system's components on an annual basis. This includes the various components inside the furnace, as well as the blower and thermostat.
A technician will inspect your ductwork to ensure it isn't damaged or leaking air. Damaged ductwork will greatly increase your energy costs and make your heating system far less effective.
Cleaning the blower assembly, furnace burners and flame sensor are especially important for keeping the furnace heating effectively. This also provides reliability. Inspecting the heat exchanger and exhaust flue is also essential for ensuring the furnace is properly vented and preventing carbon monoxide leaks.
As one of Greensboro's most trusted HVAC companies, Triad Sheet Metal is your best choice for furnace maintenance and repairs. Our technicians have experience servicing all makes and models of furnaces as well as central air conditioners and heat pumps. We also offer professional HVAC replacement and installation as well as a full range of indoor air quality services. Give us a call today to schedule your annual furnace maintenance service.
