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

A damaged furnace is tedious to deal with. There are several reasons this might happen, but one of the most likely is an issue with the burners or associated systems.

Newer models don’t use pilot lights to keep the furnace going. Instead, they utilize electronic ignition. If this ignition malfunctions, the burners can’t perform like they are supposed to.

When your gas furnace is functioning normally, here’s how it should work:

    • The thermostat informs your furnace to turn on.
    • Your furnace’s draft inducer fan begins to spin in order to draw fresh air through your furnace.
    • The gas valve opens to direct gas into the pilot burner.
    • An electronic spark ignites the pilot light.
    • The flame sensor directs your furnace that the pilot is burning.
    • The gas valve directs gas to the central burners, which are lit by the pilot light.
    • Your furnace then pushes warm air into your residence via ductwork.

If something fails during this procedure, your furnace will shut down for safety reasons. Or it might turn off a few minutes into heating because it’s getting too hot.

Some of these issues can be handled on their own, but others require professional assistance. When you are looking for the best furnace repair in the U.S., call our heat Experts at . We repair all brands and our service is backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.*

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

1. Dirty Flame Sensor

Your furnace’s flame sensor is a safety feature that notifies your furnace when gas is ignited. If the sensor is dirty or malfunctioning, it might work erratically or not at all. Even if the sensor is operating like it should, incorrect positioning leaves it unable to detect the flame entirely. While you could try troubleshooting and cleaning this sensor by yourself, contacting an expert like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing will guarantee the problem is resolved promptly and correctly.

2. Overheated Furnace

Your furnace uses built-in safety functions that deactivates your furnace if it gets especially hot. One of the most common causes is a filthy filter. We recommend reviewing your air filter every month. If you can’t see light through it, replace it.

3. Thermostat Malfunction

Your thermostat commands your furnace when it needs to heat your home. When it’s not working as it’s supposed to, your furnace will have trouble keeping your house warm. This can be a battery or electrical issue, depending on what model of thermostat you own. We encourage reviewing your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for specific troubleshooting info. If you still can’t get yours working, reach out to our Experts at . We’ll discover the cause quickly and can replace your thermostat, if needed.

Several of these issues, such as a dirty flame sensor or an overheated furnace, are a result of a lack of proper furnace maintenance. It’s important to have this service performed annually, because it may help prevent breakdowns, improve your furnace’s energy efficiency and might even make it last longer.

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

Inevitably work like it used to in spite of attempts to repair or maintain it. When the time comes, consider Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing and our quality furnace replacement in the U.S.. We partner with some of the best furnace brands, such as Lennox®, to offer you affordable, energy-efficient heating equipment.

When you’re considering replacing your furnace, consider enrolling in our Advantage Program™. Replacing a furnace can be thousands of dollars out of pocket. As an Advantage member, you’ll be given a new furnace for just one low monthly fee. There’s no down payment or installation costs, and you get to keep any beneficial rebates.

What’s even better is that Advantage members don’t pay a cent for repairs** or maintenance. If disaster hits, you’re protected with 24/7 priority service. You’ll also receive discounts, no sneaky charges and several other benefits.

Don’t struggle with interruptions to your comfort for a moment longer. Give Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing a call at to schedule an appointment right away. Whether you need 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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