Why is my furnace pilot light going out?

A pilot light that keeps going out is typically caused by a dirty or faulty thermocouple, draft issues, or a clogged pilot orifice. This is a common issue that requires professional attention since it involves gas components.

The thermocouple is the most frequent culprit - this safety device senses the pilot flame and signals the gas valve to stay open. When it gets dirty or starts failing, it may not detect the pilot flame properly, causing the gas valve to shut off as a safety measure. Over time, thermocouples can also weaken and need replacement, which typically costs $150-$300 including labor.

Draft problems can also extinguish your pilot light. This might be caused by a blocked venting system, downdrafts from wind, or issues with your home's air pressure. Sometimes a dirty or partially blocked pilot orifice restricts gas flow, creating an unstable flame that's easily blown out. Additionally, if your furnace is older, the pilot assembly itself may be wearing out.

In Ottawa's climate, furnace reliability is crucial, and pilot light issues can indicate carbon monoxide risks if combustion isn't happening properly. Modern high-efficiency furnaces use electronic ignition instead of pilot lights, which eliminates this problem entirely while saving energy.

Never attempt to repair gas components yourself - this work requires a TSSA-licensed technician in Ontario. If your pilot light won't stay lit after one relight attempt, turn off the gas supply and call for professional service. A qualified technician can diagnose whether you need a thermocouple replacement, cleaning, or if it's time to consider upgrading to a more reliable high-efficiency furnace.

For a proper diagnosis of your pilot light issues, contact a licensed HVAC professional who can safely inspect your gas furnace components and ensure your system operates safely through Ottawa's winter months.

---

Find a HVAC Contractor

Ottawa HVAC Pro connects you with experienced contractors through the https://justynrookcontracting.com:

• Leeds Property Maintenance ✓
• Valcor Construction ✓
• East Coast Sheet Metal Inc ✓