What Is A Pilot Light, and Should It Always Stay On?
May 11, 2022
Some appliances in your home require a pilot light to function. But what is a pilot light, and should it always stay on? In this blog post, we’ll answer these questions and more. We’ll also provide tips for keeping your pilot light on safely. Keep reading to learn more!
What is a pilot light?
The pilot light on a gas furnace is a small flame that ignites the burner inside the unit. The purpose of the pilot light is to provide a continuous source of ignition for the burner so that the furnace can heat the home.
Most furnaces have an electronic ignition, which means that the pilot light is unnecessary. However, some furnaces still use a pilot light, and it is essential to know how to operate this feature.
How to identify if your pilot light is on or off
Fortunately, it is easy to tell whether or not your pilot light is on.
Simply locate the pilot light assembly on your furnace. It is typically near the bottom of the unit. Once you have found it, look for a small knob that says “pilot” or “light.” Turn this knob to the “on” position and hold a lighter up to the opening.
If you see a small flame, your pilot light is lit, and you should be good to go. If not, repeat this process until you see a flame. Once you have a flame, turn the knob back to the “off” position and wait a few minutes before turning it back to “on.” This will give the gas time to build up before igniting, preventing further issues with your pilot light.
Why you should never turn off your pilot light – even if you’re going on vacation
Turning off your pilot light can be tempting, especially if you’re going away on vacation or on an extended business trip.
However, it’s important to understand the risks of turning off your pilot light. Gas leaks and explosions are just two of the dangers that can occur when your pilot light is turned off unexpectedly.
Instead, it’s always best to leave the pilot light on when you’re not home. Not only does this help ensure safety and prevent costly repairs, but it also allows you to enjoy consistent heat throughout your home when you need it most.
Contact Anderson Fireplace:
If you’re looking for a reliable and affordable way to keep your home comfortable, consider having Anderson Fireplace come in and take care of things. We can help you make sure your pilot light is always on so that you never have to worry about being without heat when you need it most. Contact us today to get started!
