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Pilot Light Keeps Going Out? Here’s Why and How to Fix It

If your furnace keeps shutting off or your pilot light won’t stay lit, you’re not alone. A flickering or extinguished pilot light is one of the most common heating issues homeowners face — especially during the colder months in Paterson, NJ.
While it might seem like a small flame, the pilot light plays a crucial role in keeping your home warm. When it keeps going out, your furnace can’t ignite properly, meaning no heat and a lot of frustration.
Let’s break down why your pilot light keeps going out, what you can do about it, and when it’s time to call in a professional HVAC technician.

What Is a Pilot Light and Why Is It Important?The pilot light is a small, continuously burning flame inside your furnace that ignites the burners when your thermostat calls for heat.
When everything works properly, it ensures your heating system can start instantly. But if it goes out, your furnace can’t ignite — leaving your home cold.
Older gas furnaces have a standing pilot light that burns continuously, while modern systems often use electronic ignition instead. If your system has a pilot light that keeps going out, it usually indicates a mechanical or safety issue that needs attention.

Common Reasons the Pilot Light Keeps Going OutThere are several potential causes — some simple, others more serious. Here are the most common ones:

1. Faulty ThermocoupleThe thermocouple is a small safety device that senses whether the pilot light is lit. If it doesn’t detect a flame, it shuts off the gas to prevent leaks.
Over time, thermocouples can become:

• Dirty or covered in soot
  
• Misaligned from the flame
  
• Worn out or damaged
  

If your pilot light goes out repeatedly, a bad thermocouple is often the culprit. Replacing it is a quick and inexpensive fix for a qualified HVAC technician.

2. Dirty or Clogged Pilot OrificeThe pilot orifice is the small opening that releases the gas feeding the flame. Dust, rust, or soot can partially block it, leading to a weak or unstable flame that easily goes out.
If you notice the flame flickering, changing color, or barely burning, the orifice likely needs to be cleaned. Avoid using sharp objects to poke it open — this can cause damage. Instead, have a professional use compressed air or proper cleaning tools.

3. Drafts or Airflow IssuesA strong draft near your furnace can blow out the pilot light. This often happens in basements, garages, or utility rooms with open vents or windows.
Check for:

• Gaps near vents or windows
  
• Loose furnace panel covers
  
• Leaks in ductwork or flue pipe connections
  

If the pilot light keeps going out on windy days, airflow might be the issue.

4. Gas Supply ProblemsYour pilot light needs a steady gas flow to stay lit. Low gas pressure, air in the line, or issues with the gas valve can cause the flame to extinguish.
If you suspect a gas supply problem:

• Check other gas appliances to see if they’re working
  
• Do not attempt to relight the pilot multiple times
  
• Call your gas company or an HVAC professional immediately
  

Gas issues can be dangerous and should always be handled by experts.

5. Malfunctioning Gas Control ValveThe gas control valve regulates the flow of gas to your pilot light and burners. If it’s faulty or worn out, it might randomly shut off the gas supply — causing the flame to go out.
This part typically needs to be tested and replaced by a licensed HVAC technician, as it involves handling gas connections.

6. Poor Ventilation or Blocked FlueYour furnace vent or flue helps release combustion gases safely outside. If it’s blocked by debris, birds’ nests, or rust buildup, the system may shut off the pilot light as a safety measure.
Signs of a blocked flue include:

• Soot around the furnace
  
• Strange odors
  
• Pilot light that won’t stay lit after relighting
  

A professional inspection is the safest way to ensure your venting system is clear and functioning properly.

How to Relight a Pilot Light SafelyIf your furnace’s pilot light has gone out, you can often relight it yourself — but only if you feel confident and safe doing so.
Follow these steps:

1. Turn off the furnace using the power switch or thermostat.
   
2. Locate the gas control knob (usually marked “Off / Pilot / On”).
   
3. Turn the knob to “Off” and wait at least 5 minutes to let any residual gas dissipate.
   
4. Switch the knob to “Pilot.”
   
5. Hold down the reset button while using a long lighter or match to relight the pilot flame.
   
6. Keep holding the reset button for about 30 seconds, then release it slowly.
   
7. Turn the knob to “On” and restore power to the furnace.
   

If the flame doesn’t stay lit after several attempts, stop trying and call a professional. There could be a deeper issue that needs diagnosis.

What Color Should the Pilot Light Be?A healthy pilot flame should be steady and blue with a small yellow tip.
If the flame is mostly yellow or orange, it indicates incomplete combustion — possibly due to dirt, rust, or improper gas mixture. This can lead to carbon monoxide buildup, so it’s important to get it inspected right away.

When to Call a Professional HVAC TechnicianIf your pilot light keeps going out despite cleaning or relighting, it’s time to call an HVAC expert.
At HVAC Paterson, our certified technicians will:

• Test and replace faulty thermocouples
  
• Clean or replace clogged pilot assemblies
  
• Check gas valve operation
  
• Inspect the flue and ventilation system
  
• Ensure safe and efficient furnace performance
  

We provide same-day furnace repair in Paterson, NJ and nearby areas, so you can get your heat back fast and safely.

Preventing Pilot Light ProblemsRegular furnace maintenance is the best way to avoid recurring pilot light issues. Schedule annual heating system tune-ups before winter to:

• Clean the pilot assembly and burners
  
• Check for gas leaks
  
• Inspect thermocouples and ignition systems
  
• Verify proper airflow and ventilation
  

With professional maintenance, you’ll keep your heating system running safely and efficiently all season long


A pilot light that keeps going out is more than a nuisance — it’s often a warning sign that something in your furnace needs attention.
Whether it’s a dirty thermocouple, a weak flame, or a gas flow issue, getting it checked quickly can prevent bigger (and more expensive) problems down the road.
If your furnace won’t stay lit, contact HVAC Paterson for fast, reliable furnace repair in Paterson, NJ. Our local experts are ready to help you restore heat and peace of mind — safely and affordably.

FAQs About Pilot LightsQ1: Why does my pilot light keep going out after I relight it?
Usually because of a dirty thermocouple, weak flame, or gas flow issue. A technician can inspect and replace any faulty parts.
Q2: Is it dangerous if my pilot light keeps going out?
It can be. If gas continues to leak or combustion isn’t complete, there’s a risk of carbon monoxide. Always have it inspected professionally.
Q3: Can I replace a thermocouple myself?
It’s possible but not recommended unless you’re familiar with gas appliances. Professional replacement ensures safety and proper calibration.
Q4: Should I upgrade to an electronic ignition furnace?
If your system is older and frequently having pilot light issues, upgrading to an electronic ignition model can improve safety and efficiency.