A Step-by-Step Guide for Homeowners
Have you ever walked into a chilly home, only to realize your heater isn’t working? One of the most common reasons for this is a pilot light that has gone out. Fortunately, it’s usually a simple fix! Understanding how to light a pilot light is essential for homeowners who rely on gas-powered furnaces or water heaters to stay warm.
In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps of lighting your pilot light safely. If you’re unsure or don’t feel comfortable performing this task, Bellaire Air Conditioning offers expert furnace repair services in Houston and nearby areas like Sugar Land, Katy, Cinco Ranch, and West University Place.
Why Is Your Pilot Light Important?
The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the gas burner in your furnace or water heater. Without it, the system can’t function properly, leaving you without heat or hot water. While it’s normal for pilot lights to occasionally go out, learning how to relight it can save you time and a potential service call.
If your pilot light has gone out, you might notice:
- Cold air blowing from your furnace
- No hot water from your water heater
- A flashing error code on your heating system
Before proceeding with lighting the pilot light, ensure your gas valve is turned on and you’re following the manufacturer’s safety guidelines.
Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Light a Pilot Light
Here’s a simple guide to help you relight your pilot light:
- Turn Off the Gas: Before you start, ensure the gas supply to the appliance is turned off. Wait a few minutes to allow any accumulated gas to dissipate.
- Locate the Pilot Light Assembly: Find the pilot light assembly, typically near the bottom of your furnace or water heater. You should see a small tube with a flame at the end.
- Adjust the Gas Control Valve: Turn the gas control valve to the “off” position. After a few minutes, turn it to the “pilot” setting.
- Light the Pilot: Using a long lighter or match, press the reset button while holding the flame near the pilot light. If the pilot burner ignites, continue holding the button for about 30 seconds to ensure the flame stays lit.
- Turn the Gas Back On: Once the pilot is lit, turn the gas valve back to the “on” position.
- Check for Proper Function: Finally, check the appliance to make sure it’s working properly. If the pilot burner stays lit and the furnace or water heater is functioning again, you’ve solved the issue!
When to Call a Professional for Furnace or Heating System Repair
If your pilot light won’t stay lit after following these steps, there could be a more serious issue with your system. Possible causes include a malfunctioning thermocouple or a clogged pilot tube. In this case, it’s best to call a professional for furnace repair or heating system maintenance.
Bellaire Air Conditioning offers comprehensive furnace repair services in Houston, Sugar Land, and beyond. Our technicians are experts in identifying and fixing heating issues quickly, so you can get back to enjoying a warm, comfortable home.
Professional Help for Persistent Pilot Light Issues
While many homeowners can handle the process of relighting a pilot light themselves, there are situations where calling in a professional is the safest and most efficient solution. If you’re uncomfortable with the process or encounter any of the following issues, it’s time to get in touch with a heating expert:
- The pilot burner continues to go out
- You smell gas or suspect a gas leak
- The furnace or water heater is still not working after relighting the pilot light
- Your appliance shows an error code or is malfunctioning
At Bellaire Air Conditioning, we’re always ready to help with emergency heating repair and regular furnace maintenance to keep your system running smoothly all year long. Contact us today for an inspection or to schedule a service in Katy, Cinco Ranch, West University Place, or any of our service areas.
Contact Bellaire Air Conditioning for Pilot Light Issues and More
Learning how to light a pilot light is a helpful skill for homeowners who want to avoid unnecessary repair costs. However, if you’re unsure about relighting the pilot burner or encounter recurring problems, Bellaire Air Conditioning is here to help. We offer professional furnace repair and heating services to homeowners across Houston and surrounding areas.
Call Bellaire Air Conditioning at (713) 772-1217 or fill out an online form to schedule an appointment.
FAQs
Can I light my pilot light myself?
Yes, you can light your pilot light yourself, as long as you follow the manufacturer’s instructions and safety precautions. Ensure the gas is turned off and wait a few minutes before attempting to relight the pilot to prevent any gas buildup. If you’re unsure or uncomfortable with the process, it’s best to call a professional heating technician, like those at Bellaire Air Conditioning, who can safely handle furnace and water heater repairs in Houston, Sugar Land, Katy, and the surrounding areas.
Who to call to relight a pilot light?
If you’re unable to relight the pilot light yourself or if it keeps going out, it’s best to call a professional HVAC or heating technician to inspect your furnace or water heater. Bellaire Air Conditioning offers expert furnace repair services in Houston and nearby areas such as Katy, Cinco Ranch, and West University Place. We can identify the cause of your issue and ensure everything is functioning properly.
How much does it cost to relight a pilot light?
The cost to relight a pilot light itself is typically low, especially if you do it yourself. However, if you require professional assistance from an HVAC technician to relight the pilot or address underlying issues, the cost could vary based on the service required. Typically, the price for a service call to relight a pilot burner ranges from $75 to $150. Bellaire Air Conditioning offers competitive rates and excellent service, ensuring your heating system is working efficiently.
How long do you have to wait to relight a pilot?
After turning off the gas valve, it’s recommended to wait at least 5 minutes before attempting to relight the pilot light. This ensures that any residual gas has dissipated, reducing the risk of a gas buildup and potential danger when lighting the flame.
Can a pilot light be blown out?
Yes, a pilot light can be blown out by drafts, strong winds, or improper ventilation. This is especially common if your furnace or water heater is near a window or vent that allows air to enter. If your pilot burner keeps blowing out, it could be a sign of improper venting or a faulty thermocouple, and you may need a professional from Bellaire Air Conditioning to inspect and resolve the issue.