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How to Troubleshoot a Carrier Furnace Pilot Light That Won't Stay Lit
When the winter wind blows cold air into your home, you probably turn to your furnace to keep things warm and toasty. But, when the furnace pilot light won't stay lit, your home can be left uncomfortably cold. If you're having trouble with a Carrier furnace pilot light that won't stay lit, you want to take action quickly to fix the issue before temperatures drop. Thankfully, troubleshooting a Carrier furnace pilot light that won't stay lit can often be done on your own.
Why is My Carrier Furnace Pilot Light Not Staying Lit?
When your Carrier furnace pilot light won't stay lit, there are usually two possible causes. The first is your pilot light's thermocouple. The thermocouple is a device mounted along your furnace's pilot light system that helps control the flow of gas. If the thermocouple isn't working properly, it can cut off the gas flow, resulting in your furnace pilot light not staying lit. The thermocouple can fail in other ways, such as becoming clogged by sediment or corrosion over time.
The other common culprit behind a Carrier furnace pilot light not staying lit is a malfunctioning gas valve. The gas valve is responsible for regulating the flow of gas to your furnace. If the valve isn't working properly, it can cause your furnace pilot light not to stay lit. On occasion, the thermocouple and the gas valve can both need replacing.
How to Know if the Problem is a Thermocouple
If you notice your furnace pilot light won't stay lit, inspect the thermocouple to find out if it is the cause of the problem. Look at the metal end of the thermocouple while the gas valve is closed and the pilot light lit. If you see a flame present, the thermocouple is working as it should and the problem may rest in the gas valve. If you do not see a flame, the thermocouple is likely the cause.
How to Troubleshoot a Gas Valve Problem
If you've determined the issue to be with your gas valve, there are two steps for how to troubleshoot a gas valve problem. Before doing anything, though, make sure to turn off the gas line. For safety purposes, it's important to wear protective gloves and keep a fire extinguisher or some other fire-retardant material handy. You'll also want to be sure there is adequate ventilation for when you're working with the gas line.
To troubleshoot the gas valve, first try to clean out the gas line. Undo the gas valve end of the line and inspect it for dirt, dust, and other obstruction. Use compressed air and a brush to remove any particles found. Put the cleaned line back into the valve and try to light the furnace again.
If cleaning the gas valve did not work, it's time to replace the entire part. Make sure to get an exact replacement for the original, and ask a salesperson at the local hardware store to help you with this if necessary. Shut off the gas line, disconnect the gas valve, and install the new one. Reconnect the gas line, turn the gas back on, and then attempt to light the furnace. With any luck, the furnace pilot light should stay lit this time.
How to Know When to Call in a Professional
At times, troubleshooting the furnace could be a bit too much for a non-professional, especially if the issue won't stay fixed for more than a few moments. In these instances, you'll need to call in an HVAC technician to do specialized diagnostic tests and make the necessary repairs to your furnace. In some cases, the technician will need to disassemble your Carrier furnace and inspect it for issues, depending on the severity of the problem. Skilled and experienced professionals like Local Reliable Appliance Repair at (866) 516-1222 can usually determine the problem quickly and get your furnace up and running after completing the needed repairs and necessary replacement parts.
Fixing a Carrier furnace pilot light that won't stay lit doesn't have to be a daunting task. By following the steps above, you can troubleshoot and detect the problem quickly and take necessary action to correct the issue. If all else fails, it may be time to call in the professionals for help.
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Carrier furnace pilot light not staying lit: Preventive Action
PLEASE provide a detailed itemized list of manufacturer recommendations or local appliance or HVAC technician’s recommendations about preventive action to avoid Carrier furnace pilot light not staying lit issues:
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Check the thermocouple or thermopile for any dirt or corrosion, and clean or replace it as needed.
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Inspect the flame size and adjust it for consistency.
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Check the pilot assembly for any damaged components, and replace them as needed.
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Check the length of the pilot tube, and trim as needed for proper flare clearance.
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Verify the gas pressure and adjust to the manufacturer's specification.
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Tighten all connections for airtight seal.
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Check the operation of the electrical system and address any power supply issues.
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Test the vent pipes for proper operation and seal any leaks if found.
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Check the furnace filter and replace it as needed.
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Clean the gasketed surfaces of the burner orifice and portholes, using a mild detergent and a soft-bristled brush.
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Check the operation of the furnace and monitor it for any problems.
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Engage a licensed and certified HVAC technician for regular maintenance and inspection.
Average Repair Cost for Carrier Furnace Pilot Light
The Most Commonly Replaced Parts
When a Carrier furnace pilot light won't stay lit, there is often an issue with the furnace's control system. The complexity of the issue will help determine the cost of the repair. In San Diego, repair costs usually run from the minimum of $100 to the complex repair price of over $300.
The most commonly replaced parts include the ignition control board, flame or temperature sensing device, and the furnace draft motor. If the control board is not functioning as expected, then an appliance repair technician may need to replace it or adjust it. This would add to the cost of the repair.
The temperature-sensing device is another commonly replaced part. This device monitors the furnace's temperature and triggers the furnace's combustion process. If this device is not functioning properly, it could lead to the pilot light not staying lit. Replacement of this device could add $200 to the repair cost.
The draft motor helps to create a draft of air through the furnace, allowing the pilot light to stay lit. If this motor is malfunctioning, it could lead to the pilot light going out. A replacement draft motor could add an additional $150 to the bill.
Materials and Labor Costs
In addition to the cost of parts, labor costs should also be taken into consideration. In San Diego, labor costs can range anywhere from $50-$150 an hour. This cost will depend on the complexity of the repair and the technician's experience. The materials cost for each repair job is dependent upon the type and size of the part being replaced. Some materials, such as screws and wires, may not have a cost associated with them.
Consider Calling Local Reliable Appliances
For a comprehensive, complete review of all parts, it is always best to contact a local reliable appliance repair service. They can discuss all parts and labor costs in detail, ensuring a successful repair for the Carrier furnace pilot light not staying lit issue. To contact Reliable Appliances in San Diego, call (866) 516-1222.
Carrier Furnace Pilot Light Not Staying Lit
When your Carrier furnace pilote light won't stay lit, it's time to reach out to professionals for help. You can trust Reliable HVAC & Appliance Repair, a local San Diego business with a family-owned history. Our technicians have the expertise to repair your Carrier unit and keep the pilot light burning.
Reliable offers same-day services for appliance and HVAC repair, and our technicians are knowledgeable with a minimum of five years of experience in the field. We have an outstanding record of success in dealing with Carrier furnace pilot light not staying lit. We provide fair and affordable pricing for all of our services, and we guarantee our work. Plus, we are licensed and insured, giving you added peace of mind when you let us take care of your repair job.
As a first-time customer, you can take advantage of our $25 off labor offer. Contact us today at tel:(866) 516-1222 and find out why we are one of the preferred service providers in San Diego. We promise excellent customer service and satisfaction, so you know your HVAC and appliance needs will be taken care of. Get your Carrier furnace pilot light back on today and save with Reliable HVAC & Appliance Repair!
FAQ about Troubleshooting a Carrier Furnace Pilot Light
Q: How can I begin troubleshooting my Carrier furnace when the pilot light won't stay lit?
A: Start by checking the draft hood for any blockages or debris. If it is clear, check the thermocouple for crimped wires or build-up from rust. If none of these are the issue, it is possible the pilot light is dirty or needs adjustment.
Q: What is a thermocouple and why is it important?
A: A thermocouple is the device connected to a gas furnace that senses when the pilot light is lit. It is an important safety feature that prevents gas flow in the event that a pilot light goes out.
Q: How do I clean the pilot light on my Carrier furnace?
A: First, turn off the gas supply and move the pilot light controls to the “off” position. You can then use a wire brush or cotton swab to clean the opening. If the pilot light does not stay lit, changing the thermocouple may be necessary.
Q: What if cleaning the pilot light and the thermocouple doesn't resolve the issue?
A: If your troubleshooting efforts are not effective, it is advisable to call a local, reliable appliance repair service. They will be able to inspect the furnace and determine exactly why the pilot light will not remain lit.
For questions about troubleshooting a Carrier furnace pilot light that won't stay lit, please call Local Reliable Appliance Repair at (866) 516-1222.