Is It Hard To Light A Pilot Light?

It’s not difficult to relight your gas furnace’s pilot light. As with these other appliances, it’s best to check with the manual first, but you can expect the process to be about as simple as it appears here.

Can you light your own pilot light?

Pilot lights were once standard on all gas furnaces, but newer systems don’t always contain pilot light ignition systems. Instead, some newer furnaces use electronic ignition systems.Often, homeowners can relight the pilot themselves.

Is it hard to light a pilot light on a furnace?

Lighting the furnace pilot light is something that isn’t necessary often, but is a skill you want to have in case it is necessary.Some furnace problems are not as simple as a DIY fix.

How long should it take to light a pilot light?

Continue to hold it in the “Pilot” position for approximately 30 to 45 seconds before releasing and turning to the “On” position. If the pilot does not stay lit, repeat the process, but this time hold the button or knob in “Pilot” position for a few seconds longer, up to one full minute.

How much does it cost to relight a pilot light?

Most service providers will charge a standard fee per visit that typically covers the cost to relight a gas water heater. This service call price can range from $80 to $100.

Do you smell gas when pilot light goes?

Pilot light safety is important to prevent fire or poisoning from natural gas the pilot burns.If you smell the “rotten egg” odor of escaping gas, check to see if the pilot light is extinguished. If it is not, turn the gas valve to the “off” position and call your gas company.

Is my pilot light too high?

Next to the “Pilot” indicator on the furnace’s control switch, there is a small screw located near the pilot light-thermocouple assembly.If it extends well above the thermocouple, it’s too strong. If the flame covers the top of the thermocouple and burns steadily with a yellow tip, that’s just about right.

Should I turn off furnace pilot in summer?

Shutting your pilot light and gas supply off in the summer not only saves precious energy, it’ll save you money as well—as much as $50 a year. Shutting your pilot light and gas supply off in the summer not only saves precious energy, it’ll save you money as well—as much as $50 a year.

Why does pilot go out?

Some of the possible serious reasons for pilot lights to go out include loose or broken gas valves, thermocouples or heat exchangers, faulty venting, low gas pressure, or high winds. If you believe there is a serious problem, don’t hesitate to contact a professional.

Do I need to turn gas off if pilot light goes out?

Since the thermocouple regulates gas going to the pilot, it should cut off on its own if the pilot ever goes out, but that’s only if it’s functioning correctly. If the thermocouple isn’t working properly, then it’s possible that it’s allowing gas to leak into the very room where the heater is located.

How long do I have to hold the pilot button?

All you have to do is hold the pilot knob down for 30 seconds and hold the ignition button at the same time. You do not need to use a lighter. Your pilot light will turn on!

Can a pilot light cause carbon monoxide?

Carbon monoxide is only produced when fuel of any type; oil, gas, wood or coal is burned.And a pilot light out of adjustment can produce carbon monoxide gas. The amount produced by even a badly maladjusted pilot is small because the flame size is also small.

Who should I call to light a pilot light?

Instead, leave the house and call your local gas company or 911.

How much does a standing pilot cost?

Usually it is $1 and change. So you pilot can be costing you $7 to $10 per month. Propane is a little bit different. Since propane is done by the gallon, the numbers are different.

Is it OK to leave the pilot light on in a gas fireplace?

We recommend that you turn off your gas fireplace pilot light seasonally. Turning off your gas fireplace’s pilot light can save a substantial amount of energy and money. It is important to remember that not all gas fireplaces have “standing” pilot light, or, a pilot light that is “always on”.

Is it bad to breathe natural gas?

When used correctly, natural gas is a safe, efficient source of power.A natural gas leak in a house can cause potential fires, and inhaling the gas can cause natural gas poisoning. As with electricity, gasoline and other potentially dangerous energy sources, natural gas exposure must be handled with care.

What happens if stove pilot light goes out?

If the pilot should go out, gas is immediately shut off to the main burner, however, there is still a small amount of gas that will continue to flow to pilot. All free standing pilots are approved by the American Gas Association.

How do I know if my pilot light is out?

How to Tell If the Pilot Light Is Out

1. Locate the front cover panel on your furnace. It should be a little door that’s easily visible.
2. If your pilot light is on, it should be easy to see – your eyes will be drawn to the little flame.
3. If you don’t see a flame, your pilot light is out.
4. If there is a flame, check the color.

Why is pilot flame orange?

If your pilot light’s flame is orange or yellow, it is burning inefficiently due to a lack of oxygen. The thermocouple should sense when this happens because the heat from the flame will not be as hot as it should be.

What does a good pilot light look like?

Inspecting a Gas Furnace Pilot Light Flame
A natural gas flame should be a bright blue color with a small amount of yellow at the very tip. A propane flame will have more of a bluish-green flame with a tinge of yellow at the tip. The flame should strong enough to cover about 1/2 inch at the end of the thermocouple tip.

What color should a pilot light be?

blue
The color of the pilot light should be blue because that means that only natural gas—without any other condensates—is reaching the pilot light through the gas main. The principal chemical compound found in natural gas is methane, and methane burns blue.