BAD THERMOCOUPLE The most common reason the pilot light won’t stay lit is due to a dirty or faulty thermocouple. Once you’ve cleaned the parts, if the pilot light still won’t remain lit it’s likely the thermocouple needs to be replaced. It’s not an expensive or difficult process. With a basic understanding of electrical components and gas safety, you can swap it out yourself. However, if you’re not comfortable with electrical and gas systems, it’s a relatively inexpensive repair for a professional to do. GAS SUPPLY ISSUE Gas pressure and quality changes over time and can get out of whack. It’s kind of like running a car built for premium fuel with regular gasoline. It might not happen right away, but eventually, the lower-quality gas is going to affect the system. A gas supply issue is something you’ll need the gas company to address. They will send a trained professional to test the gas supply and make the needed adjustments. 3 PILOT LIGHT BUTTON If your pilot light lights but doesn’t stay lit, the pilot light button could be faulty. In this case, it could mean the button isn’t providing the right level of pressure, therefore failing to open the gas line to the pilot light. FAULTY GAS VALVE Finally, you could have a faulty gas valve or a clogged line. If everything else seems to be functioning properly, it likely is the culprit, although this is much less common than the thermocouple. Regardless, nearly all professionals advise against ever trying to replace a faulty gas valve yourself. Call the pros in for this one. 5 2 4
If it doesn’t light or still refuses to stay lit, consider the following common culprits.
CORROSION If the pilot light starts but then fizzles out, the problem could be buildup on the ignition parts. You may also see a yellowish or weak flame, instead of the telltale bluish-white flame. To remedy this, use a heavy-duty scouring pad or piece of fine-grit sandpaper to clean any white residue or other debris off of the pilot light, thermocouple, and thermopile. These components are all near each other and it won’t take long to do. Once the debris is gone, try the pilot light lighting process again. 1
14
HOME SWEET HOME Magazine
Powered by FlippingBook