Why did the pilot light go out on my propane gas furnace?

Many older propane gas furnaces are ignited with a pilot light (most newer models use an electronic ignition for better efficiency); one of the main reasons your furnace stops working is because that pilot light goes out. But why does it happen?

A pilot light can go out for any of several reasons, including:

• Clogged intake valves – Dust and dirt can cut off oxygen to the pilot light chamber, making it difficult for its flame to “breathe.”
• A damaged thermocouple – A thermocouple is an electrical switch that varies its output when temperatures change – on your propane gas furnace, it’s used to cut off gas supply as a safety measure. If the thermocouple is faulty, it will prevent gas from feeding the pilot light, and it will go out.
• A system leak – A weak or yellow pilot light flame usually indicates a leak somewhere in your system; as a safety measure, your furnace responds to that leak by shutting down.
• Drafts – Most pilot lights simply blow out due to a draft in your basement or storage room. Fortunately, this is one of the easiest problems to fix. If you attempt to reset your pilot light yourself, always follow manufacturer’s instructions. If the pilot light doesn’t light after several attempts, contact us for service.

Whatever the reason for your pilot light failure, the expert technicians at Advanced Propane can help. Our certified propane technicians take pride in finding the solution to any propane problem and in keeping your propane equipment running efficiently and safely. With industry certifications across a wide range of propane-related specialties and systems, they know how to keep you comfortable and safe all year long.

Need expert service for your propane gas furnace, or any of your other propane appliances? Contact the experts at Advanced Propane today.

Advanced Propane – providing reliable propane deliveries and expert propane service to customers in Middle Tennessee and Southern Kentucky. Come see us at one of our offices in Lebanon, Cookeville, and Hartsville, TN to learn more!