When the weather cools down in Las Vegas or Reno, the last thing you need is a furnace or water heater that stops working. If your pilot light keeps going out, you’re not alone as it’s a common issue with older systems.
The good news is, it’s often an easy fix. Once you understand how it works, it’s easier to figure out what might be going on.
What Is a Pilot Light?
A pilot light is a tiny flame that stays lit inside gas appliances like furnaces and water heaters. Its main job is to light the bigger burner when your home needs heat or hot water. If that little flame goes out, your system can’t fire up, which means there will be no warm air or hot showers until it’s effectively relit.
Why Your Furnace Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
If your pilot light won’t stay lit, there are a few common reasons why. Some are easy to handle, while others are best left to a professional for furnace repair.
The most common causes include:
Dirty or bent thermocouple: This small safety sensor detects the pilot flame. If it’s dirty or out of place, it might shut off the gas even when the flame is burning.
Clogged pilot tube: Dust or debris can block the tiny gas line that feeds the flame, making it weak or unsteady.
Drafts or airflow: A strong breeze near your furnace or water heater can blow out the flame, especially if it’s in a garage or basement.
Weak gas flow: Low gas pressure or a faulty valve can make it hard for the flame to stay lit.
Worn-out flame sensor: Many newer systems use a flame sensor instead of a thermocouple, and when it’s dirty, it may not sense the flame correctly.
In most cases, the issue comes down to dirt, airflow, or a small part that needs to be cleaned or adjusted.
How to Light a Pilot Light (Safely)
If your pilot light goes out, relighting it is usually pretty simple, just make sure to do it safely. Always check your appliance’s specific instructions first.
Turn the gas control knob to “OFF” and wait about five minutes so any leftover gas can clear out. Next, switch the knob to “PILOT”, press and hold it down, and use a long lighter or the built-in igniter to light the flame. Keep holding the knob for about 30 seconds to give the thermocouple time to warm up, then slowly release it.
If the flame goes out again, don’t keep trying to relight it. Turn everything off and call a professional as there’s probably an underlying issue that needs to be checked out safely.
What to Try If It Still Won’t Stay Lit
If your pilot light still won’t stay lit after relighting, there are a few simple things you can try next. Check for drafts near your furnace or water heater, clear away any dust or debris around the unit, and gently clean the thermocouple with a soft cloth to remove buildup that might be blocking the flame sensor.
If the flame continues to go out after trying these steps, don’t keep relighting it. Turn everything off and call a professional for heating services, as there’s likely an underlying issue that needs to be checked safely.
Water Heater Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
If your water heater pilot light keeps going out, the reason is often the same as with a furnace but a few extra things can cause trouble, too. Sometimes moisture or condensation can drip into the burner area and put out the flame. Other times, venting issues or a faulty control valve can cause the gas flow to be uneven, making it hard for the pilot to stay lit.
If the flame keeps going out after you relight it, it’s best to have a professional check for airflow, gas pressure problems, or the need for water heater repair before trying again.
When to Call a Professional
If your furnace or water heater pilot light keeps going out even after cleaning and relighting, it’s a good idea to call a licensed HVAC technician. When the problem keeps coming back, it could mean there’s a faulty gas valve, a damaged thermocouple, or a blocked vent that needs expert attention. A professional can check your system safely, clean or replace parts, test the gas pressure, and make sure everything is venting properly.
Don’t Ignore That Pilot Light. We’re Here to Help
If your pilot light keeps going out, it’s often a small issue that just needs a quick cleaning or adjustment. But it’s still important not to ignore it because that steady little flame plays a big role in keeping your system running.
Whether it’s your furnace or water heater pilot light, taking a few minutes to troubleshoot or calling in a professional can help prevent bigger problems later on. If you’re in Las Vegas, Reno, or the surrounding areas, you can book a service with Hawthorne Plumbing, Heating & Cooling to have a trusted technician inspect and repair your system safely.
Pilot Light FAQs
If your pilot light keeps going out over and over, it’s usually because of a dirty thermocouple, a draft, or weak gas flow. Even small amounts of dust or soot can interfere with how the flame is sensed, causing it to shut off automatically. While cleaning the area may help, it’s best to have a professional inspect the gas valve and ensure everything is functioning safely.
You can handle simple maintenance — like wiping away dust near the flame or gently cleaning the thermocouple with a soft cloth — but if the flame won’t stay lit or you smell gas, stop immediately. Turn everything off and call a licensed HVAC technician. They can safely check the gas pressure, venting, and ignition system to make sure there’s no underlying issue.
Yes. Newer heating systems use electronic ignition instead of a standing pilot light, which makes them more efficient and less prone to flame-out problems. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, these systems only ignite when needed, improving safety and energy use. If your system is older and often loses its flame, upgrading to a modern ignition system can be a smart move.
