How to Ignite a Pilot Light on a Furnace

A natural gas- or propane-fired furnace can be an efficient way to heat your home, as compared to electric heat. When the furnace kicks on, the gas burner ignites. Some newer gas furnaces have an electronic ignition system to light the burner, which eliminates the need for a pilot light. Older units utilize a pilot light to start the burner. A pilot light is a small, constant flame that must be kept lit for your furnace to operate properly. You may need to relight the pilot light in your furnace if its gas supply has been turned off for any reason.

Things You'll Need

• Phillips screwdriver (optional)
• Adjustable wrench (optional)
• Matches

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Instructions

1. Locate the pilot light control valve, which is usually at the base of the furnace. Remove the sheet metal access panel with a Phillips screwdriver or small adjustable wrench to access the pilot control, if necessary.

2. Turn the pilot control valve to the "OFF" position. Wait several minutes before continuing to allow any lingering gas in the system to dissipate.

3. Turn the pilot control valve to the "PILOT" setting. Push down on the valve, which is spring loaded, and continue to hold it down. Hold a lighted match to the pilot nozzle, which is located on the thermocouple unit in close proximity to the pilot control valve.

4. Continue to hold down the pilot control valve for several seconds. If the pilot has been out for a long period of time, you may need to hold down the valve for a few minutes.

5. Release the pilot control valve slowly so that it raises to its normal position. Rotate the valve to the "ON" position. Observe the pilot light. Repeat this procedure if the pilot light did not stay lit. Note that it may be necessary to hold down the pilot valve for a longer period of time if the pilot light keeps going out when you release the valve.

6. Replace the access panel, if necessary, once the pilot light has stabilized.

Tips & Warnings

• If your pilot light will not stay lit, or if the flame is orange in color, turn the pilot control valve to the "OFF" position and call your gas supply company or a furnace repairman. Do not leave the pilot control valve in the "PILOT" or "ON" position if it will not stay lit.

References

• Manage My Life: Relight a Gas Furnace Pilot LIght