While this winter on Long Island has not gotten as freezing out as it had in some years past, it is still undeniably cold. We’ll all be utilizing plenty of heating in our homes and want to have that peace of mind that our HVAC systems will run smoothly and efficiently.
Unlike many other parts of the country, Long Island relies heavily on heating oil and less so on natural gas overall. Though natural gas conversions have increased in recent years.
If you’re using gas power, you may be utilizing a pilot light. Additionally, many Long Island homes are older and may still be using older model oil furnaces and boilers to provide home heating. In those instances, your heating systems may be operating with pilot lights as well.
Pilot lights do go out sometimes, however, which leads to inoperable home heating. So, what causes pilot lights to go out?
What Causes A Pilot Light To Go Out?
One of the simplest reasons a pilot light may go out is that the pilot orifice is simply building up with dirt and debris and needs to be cleaned. The pilot orifice is a small opening… so even a small amount of debris buildup could potentially make it inoperable.
Another cause for a pilot light to go out increasingly more often is a faulty thermocouple. This device detects if the pilot light is lit and has your furnace act accordingly. It is a great safety mechanism to help prevent a gas leak. However, if the thermocouple is broken, bent, or misaligned in such a way then it will be unable to detect that the pilot light is on at all.
Lastly, another common cause for pilot lights to go out is simply a poorly located furnace. If enough oxygen is not being supplied to your pilot light to keep the flame going, then it could go out.
What To Do If Your Pilot Light Goes Out?
Depending on the situation, you can likely relight a pilot light yourself. It is important that you follow the specific instructions for your exact furnace or boiler if you’re doing so.
It is also important to keep in mind that newer models have automatic shut off valves in gas furnaces to prevent gas leaks – but some older models do not. If you find your pilot light is going out often, you likely need regular maintenance or even a new unit all together.
Tragar Is Long Island’s Trusted Source For HVAC Service and Heating Oil
While there is no good time to be dealing with heating problems, winter is certainly one of the hardest times for heating problems – including low oil – to be affecting you and your family. That is why we pride ourselves on having the fastest emergency response time in the area at just two hours. Contact us today for peace of mind this winter and beyond.
