Fixing a Furnace That Wont Stay Lit

A malfunctioning furnace is frustrating to deal with. There are many reasons this may happen, but one of the most frequent is a problem with the burners or related parts.

Newer furnaces don’t count on pilot lights to keep the furnace going. Instead, they utilize electronic ignition. If this ignition fails, the burners won’t function like they should.

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

  • The thermostat informs your furnace to activate.
  • Your furnace’s draft inducer fan starts to draw fresh air through your furnace.
  • The gas valve opens to move gas into the pilot burner.
  • An electronic spark ignites the pilot light.
  • The flame sensor informs your furnace that the pilot has been lit.
  • The gas valve transports gas to the principal burners, which are lit by the pilot light.
  • Your furnace then transports warm air throughout your residence via ductwork.

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

Several of these malfunctions can be fixed on their own, but others are best handled by professional assistance. When you want the top furnace repair in Edmonton, reach out to our heat Experts at 780-800-7092. We service all brands and our services are supported by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.*

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

1. Faulty Flame Sensor

Your furnace’s flame sensor is a safety feature that tells your furnace when gas is ignited. If the sensor is dirty or faulty, it might work intermittently or not at all. Even if the sensor is working like it should, poor positioning leaves it unable to recognize the flame to begin with. While you can attempt troubleshooting and cleaning this sensor by yourself, calling a pro like McKinley Heating Service Experts will ensure the problem is taken care of quickly and correctly.

2. Furnace is Too Warm

Your furnace has built-in safety functions that shut it off if it gets especially hot. One of the most frequent causes is a filthy filter. We suggest evaluating your air filter each month. If you can’t see light through it, swap it out.

3. Thermostat Malfunction

Your thermostat informs your furnace when it needs to heat your home. When it’s not running properly, your furnace will have trouble keeping your house warm. This can be a battery or electrical issue, depending on what kind of thermostat you own. We suggest referring to your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for necessary troubleshooting info. If you still can’t get yours working, reach out to our Experts at 780-800-7092. We’ll identify the issue promptly and can replace your thermostat, if that is required.

A number of these issues, like a dirty flame sensor or an overheated furnace, are a result of a lack of consistent furnace maintenance. It’s crucial to have this service done every year, because it could help stop breakdowns, improve your furnace’s energy efficiency and may even make it live longer.

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

With enough time, your furnace can’t work like it should despite attempts to repair or maintain it. When the time comes, trust McKinley Heating Service Experts and our quality furnace replacement in Edmonton. We work with some of the number one furnace brands, including Lennox®, to offer you affordable, energy-efficient heating equipment.

When you’re thinking about replacing your furnace, consider taking advantage of our Advantage Program™. Buying a new furnace can run thousands of dollars out of pocket. As an Advantage member, you’ll receive a new furnace for just one small monthly fee. There’s no down payment or installation expenses, 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 strikes, you’re supported with 24/7 priority service. You’ll also obtain discounts, no last-minute charges and many other benefits.

Don’t struggle with interruptions to your comfort for a second longer. Give McKinley Heating Service Experts a call at 780-800-7092 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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