One of the most common issues of using an older furnace is dealing with problems related to your pilot light. A pilot that keeps going out makes it nearly impossible to heat your home while also causing a lot of frustration. Your pilot light can keep going out due to multiple reasons, so reaching out to a company offering heater repair services is important in taking care of this problem.
Here are a few of the most common reasons why your heater’s pilot light keeps going out.
Crack in Heat Exchanger
Problems with your pilot light can often happen if you have a cracked heat exchanger. A crack impacts the air pressure inside of the combustion chamber, which directly affects the flame. Depending on the size of the crack, air can be blown inside to cause your pilot light to keep going out.
Thermocouple Problems
The thermocouple is an important safety device that controls whether your pilot light is lit. However, a dirty or malfunctioning thermocouple will shut off the gas supply and cause the pilot light to keep going out. Getting your thermocouple inspected by an HVAC technician is always a good idea to take care of this problem.
Aging Furnace
A gas or propane furnace will eventually experience various problems due to age. A furnace with a standing pilot light is most likely over two decades old, which increases the likelihood of dealing with pilot light problems and other issues. Typically, the average lifespan of a furnace ranges between 16 to 20 years, as it may be a good idea to consider a replacement.
Gas Valve or Gas Supply Issues
The pilot light needs a consistent source of propane or gas to stay lit. A dirty or malfunctioning gas valve can cause the flame to go out. A low supply of gas will also make it challenging for your pilot light to stay on for an extended period of time.Hutchinson is a family-owned and operated company specializing in HVAC and plumbing services. We can also help you improve your indoor air quality and find ways to save you money on your energy bills. Our goal is to always offer the best services and meet the needs of each customer. Feel free to contact us today to learn more heating maintenance tips!