What Causes Pilot Lights to Go Out? How to Solve the ‘Pilot Light Not Staying Lit’ Issue

It’s a chilly winter evening, and you’re snuggled up on your couch with a warm cup of cocoa. Suddenly, click, the heater shuts off, and before you know it, you’re left in the cold. What just happened? Why did your pilot light go out? Frustrating as it may be, this is a common issue faced by many homeowners.

Understanding the Role of Pilot Lights

Before we dive into why pilot lights go out and how to fix them, let’s take a moment to understand what they actually are. A pilot light is a small flame that ignites natural gas or propane burners in various household appliances such as water heaters, furnaces, and stoves. It serves as an ignition source for these appliances.

The Importance of Keeping the Pilot Light Lit

Maintaining a steady flame on your pilot light is crucial because if it goes out unexpectedly, your appliance won’t produce heat anymore. This can lead to discomfort in colder climates or even potential hazards if there are issues with gas leaks.

Common Reasons Why Pilot Lights Go Out

Several factors can contribute to a pilot light going out unexpectedly. Let’s explore some common culprits:

1. Thermocouple Malfunction

A faulty thermocouple is often the prime suspect when it comes to extinguished pilot lights. The thermocouple acts as a safety device designed to detect whether the pilot light has gone out or not. If it senses that there is no flame present, it cuts off the gas supply to ensure safety. However, a malfunctioning thermocouple might mistakenly shut off the gas flow even when there is still a flame, causing your pilot light trouble.

2. Clogged Pilot Orifice

Over time, pilot orifices can become clogged with dirt, dust, or debris, obstructing the flow of gas to the pilot light. When this happens, it becomes challenging for the flame to remain ignited, resulting in frequent blowouts.

3. Improper Gas Pressure

Insufficient or excessive gas pressure can disrupt the stability of your pilot light flame. If there isn’t enough pressure, the flame may struggle to stay lit; on the other hand, if there is too much pressure, it could blow out easily.

4. Draughts and Airflow Issues

The presence of strong draughts or airflow near your appliance can create a turbulent environment for your pilot light flame. Strong gusts of wind coming through windows or poorly-sealed doors can cause erratic flames that are prone to going out.

5. Dirty Flame Sensor (in Some Appliances)

Certain appliances with advanced safety features incorporate a flame sensor that ensures proper combustion within the burner assembly by detecting if there’s an active flame present. Over time, this sensor can accumulate grime and soot, causing it to malfunction and falsely sense a lack of flame even when there is one.

Taking Control: How To Solve The ‘Pilot Light Not Staying Lit’ Issue

Q: What are the possible reasons for a pilot light to go out?
A: There could be several reasons for a pilot light going out, such as a malfunctioning thermocouple, insufficient gas supply, dirty or clogged pilot orifice, or a draft affecting the flame.

Q: How can I troubleshoot and fix the issue of my pilot light not staying lit?
A: If your pilot light keeps going out, you can try a few troubleshooting steps. First, check if there is enough gas supply reaching the appliance. Then, clean the pilot orifice and ensure it’s not obstructed. You may also need to replace a faulty thermocouple that fails to detect the flame. Finally, minimize drafts around the appliance by sealing any leaks or using protective covers.

Q: Is an improperly adjusted gas valve responsible for pilot lights frequently extinguishing?
A: Yes, an incorrectly adjusted gas valve can cause recurrent issues with your pilot light. If there’s too little gas flow due to improper adjustment, it can lead to extinguishing of the flame. It’s essential to have a professional technician adjust and calibrate your gas valve correctly.

Q: Can external factors like wind gusts impact the stability of my pilot light?
A: Absolutely! External factors like strong winds or drafts can certainly affect how well your pilot light stays lit. Even gentle gusts caused by open windows or doors nearby can disrupt and blow out the flame. To solve this issue effectively, consider installing draft guards around your heating equipment.

Q: Are there any safety concerns associated with relighting a continuously extinguishing pilot light on my own?
A: While relighting a constantly extinguishing pilot light may seem harmless at first glance, it’s crucial to prioritize safety measures. Always follow manufacturer instructions and take precautions when dealing with natural gas appliances. If unsure about handling this task yourself—especially if unfamiliar with gas systems—it is recommended to seek assistance from a qualified technician.

Q: Can a malfunctioning thermocouple be the main culprit behind pilot lights not staying lit?
A: Yes, a faulty thermocouple is often to blame for pilot lights not remaining lit. The thermocouple generates an electric current when heated by the pilot light’s flame and acts as a safety feature. If it fails to detect the flame or loses its ability to produce an electrical signal, it will shut off the gas supply, causing the pilot light to go out. In such cases, replacing the thermocouple typically resolves the issue.

Dane Raynor

Hey there, I’m Dane Raynor, and I’m all about sharing fascinating knowledge, news, and hot topics. I’m passionate about learning and have a knack for simplifying complex ideas. Let’s explore together!