When your furnace suddenly stops working with no strange noises or declining performance, a blown-out pilot light is often behind it. As fall gives way to freezing nights across Portland, Salem, and Southwest Washington, the last thing you want is for your pilot light to go out. The good news is that this issue is often simple to troubleshoot. With a little guidance, many homeowners can safely relight a pilot light on their own.
As your local heating experts since 1901, we’re diving into why pilot lights go out, how to relight them, and when to call in the pros at Wolfer’s Home Services.
Why Your Pilot Light Went Out
Pilot lights go out for several different reasons, and understanding the cause helps you determine whether it’s safe to relight it. In most cases, the problem isn’t dangerous, just inconvenient. Other times, it points to a deeper furnace issue that requires the help of a licensed HVAC technician.
Your furnace’s pilot light may go out due to:
- Drafts or airflow issues: A sudden flow of air from an open window, an exterior door, or an HVAC vent can blow out the pilot flame.
- Dirty pilot or flame sensor: Dust and buildup can prevent the flame from staying lit because the system can no longer detect a steady flame.
- Thermocouple problems: A worn or damaged thermocouple may incorrectly signal that the flame is out, shutting off the gas supply.
- Gas supply interruptions: Low gas pressure or a gas line issue can keep the pilot from igniting or remaining lit.
Seasonal furnace maintenance can help prevent dust and buildup in your unit, as well as catch small issues and wear before they start to affect your pilot light. Make sure your furnace is ready for the cold by scheduling a tune-up before winter sets in.
Safety Precautions Before Relighting the Pilot Light
Working around gas appliances always requires caution. Before you touch your furnace, take a moment to make sure the situation is safe.
Follow these safety precautions:
- Check for gas smell: A sulfur or “rotten egg” odor means gas is leaking, and you should immediately leave the home and contact your gas utility.
- Turn off the furnace first: Make sure the system has fully stopped running before you begin so lingering gas can dissipate.
- Read the furnace label or manual: Manufacturers include relight instructions on the furnace door or in the manual, and details can vary from model to model.
- Make sure the area is well ventilated: Good airflow helps prevent gas pockets from forming while you work.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Relight a Furnace Pilot Light
Most furnaces include a small instruction label inside their door for relighting the pilot. If your system has a standing pilot light, these steps outline the general process. If your furnace uses electronic ignition, you won’t find a manual pilot to light at all; those systems need professional attention.
Follow these steps to relight your furnace pilot light:
- Turn the furnace control knob to “Off.”
- Wait at least three minutes to allow any remaining gas to dissipate.
- Locate the pilot assembly and gas reset switch.
- Turn the knob to “Pilot” and press or hold it down.
- Use a long lighter or the furnace’s igniter button to light the pilot flame.
- Continue holding the knob down for 20–30 seconds to warm the thermocouple.
- Turn the knob back to “On” and restore power to the system.
If the pilot light goes out again, that’s a sign the furnace has a mechanical or gas-related issue that needs professional attention.
When You Should Not Try to Relight the Pilot Light Yourself
Some situations call for a licensed and insured heating technician, especially if anything seems unusual or unsafe. When in doubt, it’s better to stop and make the call.
Contact a professional if:
- You smell gas: Gas odors indicate a leak, and relighting the pilot yourself is unsafe.
- The pilot won’t stay lit after multiple attempts: This usually means the thermocouple, gas valve, or pilot assembly needs repair.
- The thermocouple looks damaged: Bent, corroded, or visibly worn components should only be handled by a technician.
- The furnace has an electronic ignition system: These units don’t have traditional pilot lights and should not be manually lit.
Professional Furnace Repair in Portland, Salem & Southwest Washington
Whether your furnace refuses to stay lit or you’re just not comfortable relighting the pilot yourself, Wolfer’s Home Services is ready to help with professional furnace repair services. Our licensed, insured technicians handle faulty thermocouples, clogged pilot assemblies, gas supply issues, and full furnace troubleshooting. With more than 120 years of experience and same-day heating repair available, you’ll never be left in the cold.
Keep Your Home Warm and Safe With Wolfer’s
Relighting a pilot light can be a simple task, but safety should always come first around gas appliances. If anything feels uncertain or unsafe, professional service is the best option. Wolfer’s has served Northwest Oregon and Southwest Washington since 1901, providing reliable heating services backed by skilled technicians and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. Our team will get your furnace running smoothly so you can enjoy peace of mind all winter long.
Schedule furnace repair today in Portland, Salem, or Southwest Washington with Wolfer’s before winter weather hits!
