Introduction
As the temperatures drop, it’s essential to ensure that your furnace is in top working condition. One common issue homeowners face is a pilot light that has gone out. Lighting the pilot light on a furnace is a simple task that you can do yourself, saving you time and money. In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of lighting a pilot light on a furnace.
Step 1: Prepare
Before attempting to light the pilot light, it’s important to take a few precautions. Firstly, locate the gas valve and make sure it is in the “off” position. This valve is typically located near the furnace. Additionally, ensure that the area around the furnace is clear of any flammable materials.
Step 2: Locate the Pilot Light
Next, you need to locate the pilot light on your furnace. The pilot light is a small flame that should be visible near the bottom of the furnace. It is usually covered by a small metal plate or glass window. Remove any obstacles that may be blocking your view of the pilot light.
Step 3: Turn the Gas Valve to “Pilot”
Once you have located the pilot light, you need to turn the gas valve to the “pilot” position. This will allow gas to flow to the pilot light when you ignite it. The gas valve is typically marked with different positions, such as “off,” “pilot,” and “on.”
Step 4: Press and Hold the Reset Button
Before lighting the pilot light, locate the reset button near the gas valve. Press and hold this button down. Holding the reset button down will allow the gas to flow to the pilot light.
Step 5: Light the Pilot Light
Using a long-reach lighter or matchstick, carefully ignite the pilot light. Hold the flame near the pilot light while continuing to hold the reset button down. Once the pilot light ignites, you can release the reset button.
Step 6: Confirm the Flame
After releasing the reset button, check the pilot light flame. It should be a steady, blue flame. If the flame is weak or flickering, there may be an issue with the gas supply. In such cases, it’s best to contact a professional technician for further assistance.
Step 7: Turn the Gas Valve to “On”
Once you have confirmed that the pilot light is lit and stable, you can turn the gas valve from the “pilot” position to the “on” position. This will allow the gas to flow to the furnace burners, providing heat to your home.
Step 8: Replace the Cover
Finally, replace any covers or metal plates that were removed to access the pilot light. This will protect the pilot light from drafts and ensure its stability.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to light a pilot light on a furnace, you can easily troubleshoot this common issue and keep your home warm during the colder months. Remember to always follow safety precautions and consult a professional if you encounter any difficulties or if the pilot light fails to stay lit.