“Why does my pilot light keep going out?” You’re not alone in this frustrating issue. A dirty or faulty thermocouple, clogged pilot gas tube, or malfunctioning pilot control can be the culprits. Even a weak pilot flame or drafts can extinguish the flame. To resolve this problem, inspect the pilot orifice, check the gas regulator, and ensure proper airflow.
By identifying and addressing these common issues, you’ll be able to enjoy a warm and cozy home with a steady pilot light.
What’s the Best Way to Clean a Dirty Pilot Orifice to Ensure a Steady Flame?
A dirty pilot orifice can cause issues with your appliance, ruining its performance and efficiency. In this guide, we’ll show you a simple and effective way to clean a dirty pilot orifice to ensure a steady flame.
Materials Needed
- Cleaning brush (specifically designed for pilot orifices)
- Pin or toothpick
- Cloth or paper towel
Steps to Clean a Dirty Pilot Orifice
- Turn off the appliance : Make sure your appliance is switched off to avoid any accidents or injuries.
- Locate the pilot orifice : Find the pilot orifice, usually located at the end of the pilot tube.
- Remove any visible debris : Use a pin or toothpick to gently remove any visible debris or residue from the pilot orifice.
- Use a cleaning brush : Insert the cleaning brush into the pilot orifice and gently rotate it to remove any stubborn debris or carbon buildup.
- Dry the orifice : Use a cloth or paper towel to dry the pilot orifice, ensuring no moisture remains.
- Test the flame *: Relight the appliance and check the flame to ensure it’s steady and consistent.
Tips and Tricks
- Clean the pilot orifice regularly to prevent buildup and maintain appliance performance.
- Use the correct cleaning brush specifically designed for pilot orifices to avoid damaging the orifice.
- Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive materials that can damage the orifice or surrounding components.
- If you’re not comfortable cleaning the pilot orifice yourself, consult a professional appliance repair technician.
Why Does My Pilot Light Keep Going Out When It’s Cold Outside?
When the temperature drops, and your pilot light decides to betray you, it’s enough to drive you crazy. You may have noticed that your pilot light tends to go out more frequently during the colder months. What’s going on?
There are a few reasons why this might be happening:
1. Moisture in the Air
Humidity in the air can cause condensation on the pilot light assembly, making it difficult for the flame to stay lit. When the air is cold and dry, the moisture in the air freezes, creating condensation. This can be exacerbated if you live in an area with poor ventilation or if your home has a lot of moisture.
2. Drafts and Airflow
Cold air is denser than warm air, and when it enters your home, it can disrupt the airflow around your pilot light. If the air is too cold or too fast, it can blow out the pilot light.
3. Pilot Light Assembly Issues
The pilot light assembly itself may be the culprit. Over time, the assembly can become dirty or clogged with debris, making it harder for the flame to stay lit. Additionally, if the pilot light is out of adjustment, it can cause the flame to flicker or go out.
- Check your pilot light assembly for any blockages or debris
- Ensure the pilot light is properly adjusted and maintained
- Consider using a pilot light cover to protect it from drafts and moisture
4. Thermocouple Issues
The thermocouple is responsible for sensing the pilot light and igniting the main burner. If the thermocouple is faulty or dirty, it may not be able to sense the pilot light properly, causing it to go out.
To address the issue, try:
- Cleaning the thermocouple and pilot light assembly
- Replacing the thermocouple if it’s faulty
- Adjusting the pilot light and thermocouple as necessary
Commonsense approach aside, taking these steps can help you maintain a reliable pilot light, even in the harsh winter months.
Can a Draft or Strong Air Currents Cause My Pilot Light to Stay Off?
If you’re experiencing issues with your pilot light staying off, you may be wondering if drafts or strong air currents are the culprits. Let’s dive into the likelihood of this being the case.
Drafts
- A gentle breeze might not be enough to extinguish the pilot light, but a strong gust could certainly do the trick.
- However, most pilot lights are designed to withstand moderate air currents.
- If you live in a particularly windy area, it’s possible that drafts could be causing your pilot light to stay off.
Strong Air Currents
- A strong air current, such as those generated by a forced-air heating system or a commercial kitchen, could definitely blow out the pilot light.
- If you suspect that strong air currents are the issue, try relocating the pilot light or sealing any gaps in the surrounding area to reduce air flow.
Other Factors
- If you’ve ruled out drafts and strong air currents, there may be other factors at play.
- Check your pilot light for any signs of damage or corrosion, and make sure it’s properly adjusted.
- Ensure that the gas supply is turned on and functioning correctly.
- Check the burner assembly for proper alignment and cleanliness.
While drafts and strong air currents can indeed cause your pilot light to stay off, it’s essential to investigate other potential factors contributing to the issue. Take the necessary steps to troubleshoot and maintain your pilot light to ensure it’s operating safely and efficiently.
