How to Reset Pilot Light on Furnace: Quick and Easy Steps

Last Updated on October 21, 2023 by Albert Duke

To reset the pilot light on your furnace, hold down the reset button and simultaneously relight the pilot using a long-stemmed lighter. Make sure to keep the flame close to the pilot and release the reset button once the flame catches.

Monitor the pilot light for a few minutes to ensure it remains lit. If you’re experiencing difficulties relighting the pilot or if it won’t stay lit, it may be necessary to seek professional assistance as there could be an issue with the gas valve.

Identifying The Pilot Light

To reset the pilot light on your furnace, start by turning the knob to “Pilot” and holding down the reset button. Use a long lighter to bring the flame close to the pilot and hold the reset button until the pilot light is burning steadily.

Locating The Pilot Light Assembly:

• The pilot light is a small flame that ignites the main burner of your furnace. It can be found near the bottom of the furnace, usually behind a small access panel.
• To locate the pilot light assembly, follow these steps:
• Look for a metal plate on the front of your furnace that can be removed easily. This is the access panel.
• Remove the access panel by unscrewing the screws or using a latch release.
• Once the access panel is removed, you will see a small gas burner and a metal tube connected to it. This is the pilot light assembly.

Understanding The Safety Precautions:

• Before attempting to reset the pilot light on your furnace, it’s important to keep safety in mind. Here are some precautions to follow:
• Turn off the gas supply: Locate the gas shut-off valve near your furnace and turn it off to prevent any gas leaks.
• Allow time for gas to dissipate: Once the gas supply is turned off, wait for at least 5 minutes to allow any remaining gas in the system to dissipate.
• Use proper tools: When relighting the pilot light, use a long-stemmed lighter or a fireplace match to avoid any risk of burns.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions: Consult your furnace’s manual or manufacturer’s guidelines for specific instructions on how to reset the pilot light.

Remember, if you are unsure or uncomfortable with performing these steps yourself, it is always best to contact a professional HVAC technician for assistance.

Relighting The Pilot Light Manually

To manually reset the pilot light on your furnace, hold down the reset button and simultaneously relight the pilot using a long-stemmed lighter. Once the flame catches, release the reset button and monitor the pilot light to ensure it stays lit.

If you find that your furnace’s pilot light has gone out and you want to relight it manually, follow these steps:

Gathering The Necessary Tools:

• Long-stemmed lighter
• Safety matches

Holding Down The Reset Button And Relighting The Pilot:

• Locate the reset button on your furnace – it is usually red and may be labeled as such.
• Turn the control knob on your furnace to the “Pilot” position.
• While holding down the reset button, use a long-stemmed lighter or safety matches to ignite the flame at the pilot assembly.
• Keep holding down the reset button for about one minute to ensure that the pilot light stays lit.
• Once the flame is steady, release the reset button and turn the control knob to the “On” position.
• Observe the pilot light for a few minutes to ensure that it remains lit.

Checking The Flame Stability:

To ensure that the pilot light is stable and functioning properly, follow these additional steps:

• Check if the flame is blue in color and steady. A blue flame indicates a clean and efficient burn.
• If the flame is yellow or flickering, it may indicate an issue with the furnace, such as a dirty pilot or burner assembly.
• If you notice any abnormalities in the flame, it is recommended to contact a professional technician for further inspection and repair.

Remember, safety is crucial when dealing with gas appliances. If you feel uncertain or uncomfortable with relighting the pilot light manually, it is best to consult a trained professional.

Troubleshooting And Tips

Resetting the pilot light on your furnace is a simple process. Hold down the reset button while using a long-stemmed lighter to relight the pilot. Once the flame catches, release the reset button and ensure the pilot stays lit for a few minutes.

If you’re experiencing issues with the pilot light on your furnace, don’t worry – it’s a common problem that can usually be easily fixed. Here are some troubleshooting tips and maintenance tips to help you get your pilot light back up and running in no time.

Common Issues With The Pilot Light:

• Pilot light won’t stay lit: This is a common problem and can be caused by a variety of issues, such as a dirty pilot orifice, a faulty thermocouple, or a gas supply issue.
• Weak or yellow flame: If the pilot light is weak or has a yellow color, it may be a sign of a dirty or clogged pilot orifice, which can impede the flow of gas to the flame.
• Pilot light won’t ignite: If the pilot light won’t ignite at all, it could be due to a gas supply issue, a faulty ignition system, or a problem with the thermocouple.

Steps To Troubleshoot And Fix The Problems:

• Ensure gas supply: Start by checking that the gas supply to the furnace is turned on. If it’s turned off, turn it on and try relighting the pilot light.
• Clean the pilot orifice: Use a small wire brush or needle to gently clean the pilot orifice, removing any dirt or debris that may be obstructing the flame.
• Check the thermocouple: The thermocouple is a safety device that detects whether the pilot light is lit. If it’s faulty, it may be preventing the pilot light from staying lit. Consider replacing the thermocouple if necessary.
• Inspect the ignition system: If your furnace has an electronic ignition system, make sure it’s working properly. Check for any loose or damaged wires and replace any faulty components.
• Call a professional: If you’ve tried troubleshooting and the pilot light still won’t stay lit or ignite, it may be time to call a professional HVAC technician to diagnose and repair the issue.

Tips For Maintaining A Well-Functioning Pilot Light:

• Regular cleaning: Keep the pilot orifice clean by regularly removing any dirt or debris. This will ensure a steady and reliable flame.
• Visual inspection: Periodically inspect the pilot light to check for any signs of problems such as a weak flame or soot buildup.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions: Always refer to your furnace’s manual for specific maintenance instructions and follow them accordingly.
• Professional maintenance: Schedule regular maintenance appointments with a professional HVAC technician to keep your furnace in optimal condition. They can inspect and clean the pilot light as part of their service.

Remember, if you’re uncomfortable or unsure about troubleshooting or fixing the pilot light yourself, it’s always best to call a professional. Safety should be your top priority when dealing with gas appliances.

Credit: www.homeserve.com

Frequently Asked Questions Of How To Reset Pilot Light On Furnace

Can I Relight The Pilot Light By Myself?

Yes, you can relight the pilot light by yourself. Hold down the reset button and use a long-stemmed lighter to ignite the pilot. Release the reset button once the flame catches. Make sure the pilot light stays lit for a few minutes.

How Do I Reset My Gas Furnace Pilot?

To reset your gas furnace pilot, follow these steps: 1. Turn the knob to “Pilot” and let gas flow to the pilot. 2. Use a lighter or match to ignite the pilot light. 3. Hold down the reset button and keep your flame close to the pilot light’s opening.

4. Continue holding the reset button until the pilot light is burning steadily. 5. Keep an eye on the pilot light for a few minutes to ensure it stays lit.

How Do I Turn My Furnace Pilot Light Back On?

To turn your furnace pilot light back on, follow these steps: 1. Turn Off the Gas: Locate the control knob inside the pilot valve body and turn it off. 2. Turn the Control Knob to “Pilot”: After waiting for the gas to clear the area, turn the gas back on and set the control knob to the “Pilot” position.

3. Hold Down the Reset Button and Light the Pilot: While holding down the reset button, use a long-stemmed lighter to ignite the pilot light. Keep the reset button depressed until the pilot light is burning steadily. 4. Ensure the Pilot Stays Lit: Watch the pilot light on your furnace for a few minutes to make sure it stays lit.

Remember to exercise caution and, if necessary, seek professional assistance if you encounter any difficulties.

Why Wont My Pilot Light Relight On My Furnace?

To relight your pilot light on your furnace, hold down the reset button and use a long-stemmed lighter. Get the flame close to the pilot and release the reset button. Make sure the pilot light stays lit. If it doesn’t, your gas valve may need attention and you should contact professionals.

Conclusion

To reset the pilot light on your furnace, follow these simple steps. First, make sure to turn off the gas and wait for it to clear the area. Then, turn the control knob to “Pilot” and hold down the reset button.

Use a long lighter to ignite the pilot light by bringing the flame close to the opening. Once the pilot is lit, you can release the reset button. Keep an eye on the pilot light for a few minutes to ensure it stays lit.

If your pilot light won’t stay lit, it could be a sign of a broken gas valve, and you may need to contact professionals to diagnose and potentially replace the valve. Remember, safety is the top priority when dealing with gas appliances, so always exercise caution and seek professional help when needed.