3 Explanations Why Your Furnace Isn’t Staying Lit and How to Fix It

A faulty furnace is a hassle to handle. There are lots of reasons this may happen, but one of the most likely is an issue with the burners or related parts.

Newer models don’t use pilot lights to keep the furnace lit. Instead, they utilize electronic ignition. If this ignition fails, the burners will not work like they do normally.

When your gas furnace is running normally, here’s how it should run:

    • The thermostat informs your furnace to turn on.
    • Your furnace’s draft inducer fan turns on to pull fresh air toward your furnace.
    • The gas valve opens to send gas into the pilot burner.
    • An electronic spark ignites the pilot light.
    • The flame sensor directs your furnace that the pilot has been lit.
    • The gas valve directs gas to the central burners, which are lit by the pilot light.
    • Your furnace then pushes warm air into your house via ductwork.

If something breaks down during this procedure, your furnace will shut down for safety concerns. Or it might deactivate a few minutes into heating because it’s too warm.

Some of these problems can be resolved on their own, but others are best handled by professional servicing. When you want the finest furnace repair in the U.S., contact our heating Experts at . We have experience with all brands and our service is ensured by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.*

Here are several of the top reasons why your heater isn’t staying lit and what to do to fix it.

1. Malfunctioning Flame Sensor

Your furnace’s flame sensor is a safety system that tells your furnace when gas is ignited. If the sensor is dirty or malfunctioning, it might work intermittently or not at all. Even if the sensor is operating as normal, poor positioning leaves it unable to recognize the flame at all. While you may try troubleshooting and cleaning this sensor right away, calling a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing will guarantee the problem is handled swiftly and correctly.

2. Furnace is Too Hot

Your furnace contains built-in safety features that force a shutdown if it gets dangerously hot. One of the most frequent causes is a clogged filter. We suggest reviewing your air filter every month. If you can’t see light through it, change it.

3. Thermostat Isn’t Working Right

Your thermostat commands your furnace when it needs to heat your house. When it’s not working like it should, your furnace will struggle to keep your residence warm. This can be a battery or electrical malfunction, depending on what type of thermostat you own. We suggest reviewing your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for specific troubleshooting info. If you still can’t get yours working, contact our Experts at . We’ll identify the problem promptly and can replace your thermostat, if necessary.

Some of these issues, such as a dirty flame sensor or an overheated furnace, are due to a lack of proper furnace maintenance. It’s highly beneficial to have this service done yearly, because it may help prevent breakdowns, enhance your furnace’s energy efficiency and can even make it live longer.

We Have You Protected When It’s Time for Furnace Replacement

won’t work like it’s supposed to despite attempts to repair or maintain it. When the time comes, reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing and our expert furnace replacement in the U.S.. We offer some of the best furnace brands, such as Lennox®, to offer you affordable, energy-efficient heating systems.

When you’re contemplating replacing your furnace, consider signing up for our Advantage Program™. Buying a new furnace can be thousands of dollars out of pocket. As an Advantage member, you’ll be given a new furnace for just one affordable monthly fee. There’s no down payment or installation expenses, and you get to hold on to any helpful rebates.

What’s even better is that Advantage members don’t pay a penny for repairs** or maintenance. If disaster strikes, you’re guaranteed a fast response with 24/7 priority service. You’ll also enjoy discounts, no sneaky charges and many other benefits.

Don’t worry about interruptions to your comfort for a minute longer. Give Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing a call at to request an appointment today. Whether you are looking for repairs or if it’s time for a new furnace, we guarantee your satisfaction.


*Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions. **See your signed Advantage Agreement for details.

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