How to Light a Gas Furnace

There are two types of gas furnaces. In the older type, the pilot light can be re-lit. The newer type consists of a furnace with an electrical set-up that ignites the gas. If you have one of the newer furnaces with the electrical system, then you will need to call a qualified repair person to re-light your furnace. You should not try to fix it yourself. However, if you have one of the older style furnaces that still has a pilot light, then you can re-light your furnace on your own.

Fireplace match or a candle lighter with a long nozzle
Piece of fine wire

Instructions

- 1
  Locate where your pilot light assembly is. There should be a gas valve control there.
- 2
  Turn the gas valve control to "Off." Wait for three minutes.
- 3
  Turn the gas valve control to "Pilot."
- 4
  Hold the reset button down. Then hold your lighted match or candle lighter to the pilot opening. Keep holding the reset button down until the pilot light is burning brightly.
- 5
  Turn the gas valve to "On" once the pilot light is burning brightly.
- 6
  Turn the gas valve off. Clean the opening of the pilot light with a piece of fine wire if the pilot light won't stay lit, or keeps going out. Repeat Steps 1 through 5 after cleaning it.

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Gas Repairs