Gas furnaces are easier to operate than oil burners. However, if you encounter problems, they usually involve the thermocouple, pilot light, or electrical system. These appliances have control shutoffs to prevent gas leaks, but they are not entirely fail-safe. If you smell gas in your home, do not turn any lights on or off or try to shut off the gas leading to the furnace. Instead, evacuate immediately and call the gas company or fire department.
Accessing the pilot burner depends on the type of furnace you have. On some models, a plug-type door covers the pilot light assembly, while on others, you need to remove the panel that covers the pilot and gas burners. The pilot light controls, gas valves, reset buttons, and thermocouple are usually in a front assembly, while the furnace limit switch is on the plenum or main duct junction on the upper housing of the furnace.
Before fixing your furnace, identify the problem. Refer to the chart on the following page for guidance. To learn more about home appliance repairs, click on the links below.
- Furnace Maintenance: Learn the steps to keep your furnace in optimal condition.
- Major Appliance Repair: Fix other machines in your home with ease.
- Small Appliance Repair: Learn to fix toasters or blenders.
- Thermostat Maintenance: Check the thermostat to see if there’s an actual problem with your heating system.
secure access panels properly.
slipping or too tight.
or blower
bearings need oiling.
ports; call a professional if
they need to be replaced.
Gas Furnaces and Gas Heaters Maintenance Tips
Regular maintenance of your gas furnace or gas heater can help to prolong its lifespan and prevent breakdowns. Use these tips to keep your heating system in good condition:
1. Change the air filter regularly.
A dirty air filter can reduce airflow and cause your furnace to work harder, which can shorten its lifespan. Check the air filter once a month and replace it when it’s dirty.
2. Keep the furnace clean.
Dirt and dust can build up on the furnace, which can reduce its efficiency and make it more likely to break down. Wipe the exterior of the furnace with a damp cloth once a month.
3. Check the pilot light.
If the pilot light is flickering or won’t stay lit, it may need to be cleaned or adjusted. Turn off the gas and consult the owner’s manual for instructions.
4. Schedule annual maintenance.
A professional technician can inspect and clean your furnace or heater, check for potential problems, and make necessary repairs. Schedule a maintenance appointment at least once a year to keep your heating system in top condition.
5. Keep the area around the furnace clear.
Don’t store anything flammable near the furnace, and make sure there is plenty of space for air to circulate around the unit. This can help to prevent fires and improve efficiency.
Make sure that the access panels are securely fastened. If the belts are sticking, worn or damaged, you should spray squeaking drive belts with belt dressing or replace worn or damaged belts. If the blower belts are too loose or too tight, you should adjust them. If the motor and/or blower need lubrication, lubricate them if they have oil ports. If the burner is dirty, it is best to call a professional for help. The pilot light is very important for the furnace to function correctly. To learn how to light a pilot light, refer to the next page. For more information on home repairs, check out the links provided.
How To Light a Furnace Pilot Light
To check the pilot light on a gas furnace, you will need matches and a fine wire. If the pilot light goes out due to drafts, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to relight it. If there are no instructions, follow these general steps:
To relight a pilot light, follow these steps. First, locate the pilot light assembly, which usually has a gas valve with on, off, and pilot settings. Second, turn the valve to the off position and wait for three minutes. Third, switch the valve to the pilot setting and light a match while holding it to the pilot opening. While holding the match, press the reset button on the pilot control panel. Keep the button depressed until the pilot flame burns brightly, then set the valve to the on position. If the pilot flame won’t stay lit, the opening may be clogged. In this case, turn off the gas valve and clean the opening with a piece of fine wire. If the pilot flame still won’t stay lit after several attempts, there may be a faulty thermocouple, and it’s best to call a professional service person. Some furnaces have an electrical system to ignite the gas instead of a pilot light. If this system malfunctions, call a professional service person. To replace a thermocouple, follow these steps. First, unscrew the copper lead and connection nut inside the threaded connection to the gas line. Second, under the mounting bracket at the thermocouple tube, unscrew the bracket nut that holds the tube in place. Third, insert the new thermocouple into the hole in the bracket, making sure the steel tube is up and the copper lead is down. Fourth, screw the bracket nut over the tube and push the connection nut to the threaded connection where the copper lead connects to the gas line. Finally, tightly screw the nut into place, but do not over-tighten the bracket nut and connection nut.
The thermocouple is positioned beside the pilot light and is held in place by a bracket, with the steel tube facing upwards and the copper lead facing downwards. This information is provided by Publications International, Ltd. in a photo featuring the thermocouple. The limit switch, which is located on the furnace just below the plenum, is a safety control switch designed to shut off the burner if the plenum becomes too hot. Additionally, it will shut off the blower once the temperature drops to a certain level after the burner has been shut off. If the blower runs continuously, it is possible that the blower control on the thermostat has been set to the ON position or the limit control switch requires adjustment. The thermostat should be checked first. If the blower control has been set to ON, it should be changed to AUTO. If the blower control is already set to AUTO, the limit switch will need to be adjusted.
If you need to adjust the switch on your gas furnace, start by removing the control cover. Inside, there is a toothed dial with two sides: LIMIT and FAN. The LIMIT side should not be touched. On the FAN side, there are two pointers that control when the blower turns on and off. Set the upper pointer at around 115 degrees Fahrenheit and the lower one at about 90 degrees Fahrenheit, with the two pointers about 25 degrees apart. If you smell gas during these repairs, take care of the leak immediately. To find gas leaks, create a mixture of liquid detergent and water and paint it on the gas supply line. If you find a leak, tighten the connection with a pipe wrench, but be careful not to overtighten. For more home repair articles, check out the links provided. To control the burner, call a professional to adjust the height of the main burners. For the pilot flame, turn the flame adjustment screw to get a flame height of 1.5 to 2 inches. To check for gas leaks, use the soapy water mixture and tighten connections with a pipe wrench if necessary. If leaks persist, call a professional service person.
FAQ
1. What are the common issues with gas furnaces?
Gas furnaces can face a variety of issues such as heating problems, thermostat issues, ignition problems, and filter problems. These issues can result in inefficient heating, increased energy consumption, and poor indoor air quality.
2. How often should I get my gas furnace serviced?
It is recommended to get your gas furnace serviced at least once a year. This will include cleaning the furnace, checking for any issues, and ensuring it is running efficiently.
3. What is involved in cleaning a gas furnace?
Cleaning a gas furnace involves removing the burners and cleaning them, cleaning the blower and motor, checking the heat exchanger for cracks, and replacing the air filter. It is important to turn off the gas and electricity before cleaning the furnace.
4. How do I know if my gas furnace needs repair?
If your gas furnace is making strange noises, not heating your home properly, or if you notice an increase in your energy bill, it may need repair. It is important to get it checked by a professional to avoid any safety hazards.
5. Can I repair my own gas furnace?
It is not recommended to repair your own gas furnace unless you are a trained professional. Gas furnaces involve gas and electricity, which can be dangerous if not handled properly.
6. What is involved in replacing a gas furnace?
Replacing a gas furnace involves choosing a new furnace, disconnecting and removing the old furnace, installing the new furnace, and connecting it to the gas and electricity. It is important to have a professional perform this task to ensure it is done safely and efficiently.
7. How long do gas furnaces typically last?
Gas furnaces typically last between 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance and care. If your furnace is older than 20 years and is experiencing issues, it may be time to consider replacing it.
8. How can I improve the energy efficiency of my gas furnace?
You can improve the energy efficiency of your gas furnace by regularly cleaning and maintaining it, using a programmable thermostat, sealing any air leaks in your home, and ensuring proper insulation in your home.
9. What is involved in checking the thermostat of a gas furnace?
Checking the thermostat of a gas furnace involves ensuring it is properly calibrated and functioning correctly. This can be done by turning up the heat and checking if the furnace turns on, and also checking if the thermostat is reading the correct temperature.
10. What should I do if I smell gas coming from my furnace?
If you smell gas coming from your furnace, immediately turn off the gas supply and call a professional. This can be a sign of a gas leak, which can be dangerous.
11. How can I prevent carbon monoxide poisoning from my gas furnace?
You can prevent carbon monoxide poisoning from your gas furnace by regularly cleaning and maintaining it, ensuring proper ventilation, installing carbon monoxide detectors in your home, and avoiding using gas-powered appliances in enclosed spaces.
12. How much does it cost to repair a gas furnace?
The cost to repair a gas furnace can vary depending on the issue. Minor repairs can cost between $50 to $200, while major repairs can cost up to $1,000. It is important to get a quote from a professional before proceeding with any repairs.
Brody is a skilled craftsman and gardening expert. From renovating living spaces to cultivating lush gardens, Brody’s knowledge and passion shine through, inspiring readers to embark on their own home improvement and gardening journeys with confidence.
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