Aire Flo Furnace Pilot Light Ignition Problem
A furnace pilot light is a small, constantly burning flame that serves as the ignition source for a gas furnace. It is an essential component of a gas furnace, as it is responsible for lighting the main burners when the furnace is turned on.
Proper maintenance of the pilot light is crucial for the smooth and efficient operation of an Aire Flo furnace. Without a functioning pilot light, the furnace will not be able to ignite the main burners, resulting in a lack of heat in the home.
Therefore, it is important to keep an eye on the pilot light and address any issues that may arise as quickly as possible.
What is a Furnace Pilot Light?
A furnace pilot light is a small, constantly burning flame that serves as the ignition source for a gas furnace. It is located near the gas valve of the furnace and is ignited by a spark from the control board. Once ignited, the pilot light remains burning at all times, providing the ignition source for the main burners when the furnace is turned on.
Common issues with pilot lights include the flame going out or becoming too weak, the pilot light not igniting at all, or the pilot light not staying lit. These issues can be caused by a variety of factors, including a malfunctioning control board, a faulty thermocouple or thermopile, a clogged pilot light orifice, or a problem with the gas supply.
It is important to address any issues with the pilot light as soon as possible, as a faulty pilot light can prevent the furnace from functioning properly and result in a lack of heat in the home.
How to Troubleshoot a Faulty Pilot Light
If you are experiencing issues with your Aire Flo furnace’s pilot light, there are a few steps you can take to troubleshoot the problem:
Check the gas supply
Make sure that the gas supply to the furnace is turned on and that the gas valve is fully open.
Clean the Pilot Light Orifice
A clogged orifice can prevent the pilot light from lighting or staying lit. Use a small wire or toothbrush to gently clean the orifice.
Check the Thermocouple or Thermopile
These components are responsible for sensing the presence of the pilot light flame and turning on the gas valve. If they are faulty, the pilot light may not stay lit.
Check the Control Board
The control board is responsible for sending a spark to ignite the pilot light. If it is malfunctioning, the pilot light may not ignite at all.
To maintain a healthy pilot light, it is important to regularly check and clean the orifice, as well as replace the thermocouple or thermopile if necessary. It is also a good idea to have a professional technician inspect and perform maintenance on your furnace on a regular basis.
How Do You Light the Pilot Light on an Aire Flo Furnace?
Step by Step Guide to Light the Pilot Light on an Aire-Flo Furnace
- Safety First: Before attempting to light the pilot light, ensure the gas has had sufficient time to dissipate and it is safe to proceed. Turn off the gas supply to the furnace and make sure there is no gas smell.
- Turn the Furnace Knob to “Pilot”: Locate the control knob for the furnace and turn it to the “Pilot” setting. This will allow you to ignite the pilot light.
- Locate the Reset Button: Find the “Reset” button, which is usually located near the pilot light. It may be a red or black button, or it may be a button located on the control box.
- Press and Hold the Reset Button: Hold down the “Reset” button and do not let go until the pilot light is lit.
- Use a Long Lighter: Bring a long lighter close to the pilot light opening and ignite it. The pilot light should catch and start to burn.
- Release the Reset Button: Once you are sure the pilot light is burning steadily, release your pressure on the reset button. The furnace should now be operational.
- Check the Furnace Operation: After lighting the pilot light, let the furnace run for a few minutes to ensure it is operating properly. Check the flame, and if it’s not burning properly, turn off the furnace and try lighting the pilot light again.
It is important to follow these steps carefully to ensure the safety of yourself and your home. If you are unsure of any step, or if the pilot light does not ignite, do not attempt to light it and seek professional assistance.
When to Call a Professional for Furnace Repairs
There are a few signs that it may be time to call a professional for furnace repairs:
- The furnace is not functioning at all: If your furnace is not turning on or is not producing heat, it may be time to call a professional for repairs.
- The pilot light is not staying lit: If you are having trouble keeping the pilot light lit, it could be a sign of a deeper issue with the furnace.
- The furnace is making strange noises: If your furnace is making loud or unusual noises, it could be a sign of a problem that needs to be addressed by a professional.
- The furnace is not heating the home evenly: If some rooms in your home are warmer or cooler than others, it could be a sign of an issue with the furnace.
There are several benefits to hiring a professional for furnace repairs. A professional technician will have the knowledge and expertise to accurately diagnose and repair any issues with your furnace.
They will also have the proper tools and equipment to safely and effectively complete the repairs. In addition, hiring a professional can help to extend the life of your furnace and prevent future problems from occurring.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the furnace pilot light is an essential component of an Aire Flo furnace, as it is responsible for lighting the main burners when the furnace is turned on. Proper maintenance and timely repairs of the pilot light are crucial for the smooth and efficient operation of the furnace.
If you are experiencing issues with your furnace’s pilot light, it is important to address the problem as soon as possible to prevent further issues from occurring. By regularly inspecting and maintaining your furnace and promptly addressing any issues that arise, you can help to ensure that your Aire Flo furnace is operating at its best and providing reliable heat for your home.
