3 Explanations Why Your Furnace Isnt Staying Lit and How to Fix It

A damaged furnace is frustrating to handle. There are multiple reasons this may happen, but one of the most likely is an issue with the burners or relevant systems.

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

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

  • The thermostat directs your furnace to run.
  • 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 lights the pilot light.
  • The flame sensor tells 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 moves warm air across your house via ductwork.

If something fails during this process, your furnace will deactivate for safety purposes. Or it might stop a few minutes into heating because it’s overheating.

Some of these problems can be handled on their own, but others are best handled by professional servicing. When you want the fastest furnace repair in Elkhart, reach out to our furnace Experts at 574-218-6404. We repair all brands and our services are ensured by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.*

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

1. Dirty Flame Sensor

Your furnace’s flame sensor is a safety feature that informs your furnace when gas is ignited. If the sensor is dirty or damaged, it may work inconsistently or not at all. Even if the sensor is functioning as normal, misaligned positioning leaves it unable to recognize the flame entirely. While you may start troubleshooting and cleaning this sensor on your own, calling a pro like BW/Cook Service Experts will guarantee the problem is taken care of quickly and correctly.

2. Furnace is Too Hot

Your furnace uses built-in safety features that shut it off if it gets dangerously hot. One of the most frequent causes is a clogged filter. We suggest inspecting your air filter monthly. If you can’t see light through it, swap it out.

3. Thermostat is Malfunctioning

Your thermostat commands your furnace when it is time to heat your home. When it’s not running normally, your furnace will require more energy to keep your residence warm. This can be a battery or electrical malfunction, depending on what type of thermostat you have. We suggest reviewing your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for needed troubleshooting information. If you still can’t get yours working, call our Experts at 574-218-6404. We’ll find the issue swiftly and can replace your thermostat, if needed.

Several of these issues, like a dirty flame sensor or an overheated furnace, are a result of a lack of consistent furnace maintenance. It’s vital to have this service completed once a year, because it might help minimize breakdowns, improve your furnace’s energy efficiency and can even make it survive longer.

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

Sooner or later, your furnace cannot work like it’s supposed to regardless of attempts to repair or maintain it. When the time comes, consider BW/Cook Service Experts and our top-notch furnace replacement in Elkhart. We work with some of the best furnace brands, like Lennox®, to offer you affordable, energy-efficient heating systems.

When you’re thinking about replacing your furnace, consider enrolling in our Advantage Program™. Getting 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 pocket any valuable rebates.

What’s even better is that Advantage members don’t pay a dime for repairs** or maintenance. If you have a disaster, you’re supported with 24/7 priority service. You’ll also obtain discounts, no hidden charges and lots of other benefits.

Don’t fret about interruptions to your comfort for a second longer. Give BW/Cook Service Experts a call at 574-218-6404 to request an appointment today. 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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