Why Is My Pilot Light Not Igniting On My Heater?

As a homeowner in Farmington, NM, you know how important a reliable heating system is during the cold winter months. When temperatures drop and you rely on your gas heater to keep your home cozy and comfortable, a malfunctioning pilot light can be a real pain. If your pilot light won’t ignite, it can leave you and your family shivering until the issue is resolved.

At Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning, we know how frustrating it can be when your pilot light goes out. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you troubleshoot the problem and get your heater back up and running.

What Causes A Pilot Light To Go Out?

There are several reasons why a pilot light may stop igniting on a gas heater:

1. Thermocouple issue — The thermocouple is a safety device designed to shut off the gas supply if the pilot light goes out. When the thermocouple is faulty, it can stop the pilot light from igniting.
2. Dirt or debris — Over time, dust, dirt, and other debris can build up around the pilot light, preventing it from igniting properly.
3. Gas supply problem — If there is an issue with the gas supply, such as a kinked or clogged gas line, the pilot light may not be getting enough fuel to stay lit.
4. Thermostat malfunction — If your heater’s thermostat is not functioning correctly, it can affect the pilot light’s ability to ignite.

Gas Furnace Safety Tip!

Before attempting to troubleshoot your pilot light, it’s important to take safety precautions. Gas leaks can be extremely dangerous, so if you smell gas, evacuate your home immediately and call your gas company. Additionally, never try to repair a gas appliance yourself unless you are a qualified technician — doing so can be very hazardous.

How To Troubleshoot A Pilot Light That Won’t Ignite

If your pilot light is not igniting, try these troubleshooting steps

Check The Thermocouple

Try gently cleaning the thermocouple with steel wool or emery cloth.

Clean The Pilot Light Assembly

Use a small brush or can of compressed air to remove any dirt, dust, or debris that may be clogging the pilot light assembly.

Inspect The Gas Line

Check the gas line for any kinks or blockages that could be restricting the flow of gas to the pilot light.

Adjust The Thermostat

Make sure your thermostat is set to a temperature that is higher than the current room temperature. This will signal the heater to turn on and try to ignite the pilot light.

Farmington Furnace Repair

Farmington, NM experiences cold, dry winters, with average temperatures dropping below freezing from November through March. Reliable home heating is essential during this time to stay comfortable and safe. A properly functioning pilot light is crucial for keeping your gas heater operating efficiently through the winter months.

If you’ve tried these troubleshooting steps and your pilot light still won’t ignite, it’s time to call in the professionals. The team at Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning in Farmington, NM, is here to help. We have the expertise and equipment to diagnose and repair any issues with your gas heater, so you can stay warm and comfortable all winter long.

Schedule Furnace Services Today

At Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning, our highly trained technicians have the specialized knowledge and equipment to quickly diagnose and resolve any pilot light issues with your gas heater. We’ll get your system back up and running safely so you can enjoy worry-free warmth all season long.

Don’t let a malfunctioning pilot light leave you out in the cold this winter. Contact the experts at Robbins Heating & Air Conditioning in Farmington, NM today to schedule your heating system inspection and repair. We’re dedicated to keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient, 365 days a year.