A furnace that won’t stay lit can quickly turn a chilly day into an uncomfortable one, especially during the colder months. For homeowners in Rockwall and the surrounding areas, reliable heating is essential to maintaining comfort and safety. At D-N-D Services, we understand how frustrating and concerning furnace problems can be. If your furnace ignites but then quickly shuts off, several common issues could be causing the problem. Here’s what might be happening and why calling a licensed HVAC contractor is your best next step.
1. Dirty or Faulty Flame Sensor
One of the most common reasons a furnace won’t stay lit is a dirty or malfunctioning flame sensor. The flame sensor’s job is to detect whether the furnace burner has ignited properly. If it doesn’t sense a flame, it will shut off the gas valve to prevent unburned gas from building up—a safety feature that protects your home.
Over time, the flame sensor can accumulate dirt or soot, preventing it from accurately detecting the flame. This causes the furnace to shut off shortly after ignition. Cleaning or replacing the flame sensor is often a simple fix, but it requires professional expertise to ensure it’s done safely and correctly.
2. Thermocouple Issues
If your furnace uses a standing pilot light, a faulty thermocouple could be the culprit. Like the flame sensor, the thermocouple is a safety device that senses whether the pilot light is lit. If it doesn’t detect the pilot flame, it shuts off the gas supply to prevent dangerous gas leaks.
A bent, dirty, or worn-out thermocouple may fail to sense the flame and cause the furnace to shut down repeatedly. Replacing or adjusting the thermocouple is a task best left to licensed HVAC professionals.
3. Clogged or Dirty Air Filter
A furnace’s ability to stay lit and operate efficiently depends heavily on proper airflow. A clogged or dirty air filter restricts airflow, causing the furnace to overheat and shut off as a protective measure. This can sometimes manifest as the furnace failing to stay lit.
Regular maintenance, including changing or cleaning air filters, is crucial for your system’s health. At D-N-D Services, we offer thorough inspections and maintenance services to keep your HVAC system running smoothly.
4. Issues with the Gas Valve or Gas Supply
If your furnace struggles to stay lit, it might be due to problems with the gas valve or gas supply. A malfunctioning gas valve may not provide a steady flow of gas, causing the flame to extinguish. Similarly, interruptions in the gas supply line, such as a closed valve or gas pressure issues, can cause your furnace to shut off unexpectedly.
Given the risks involved with gas, it’s important to have licensed professionals handle any gas valve or supply issues to ensure safety and compliance with local regulations.
5. Drafts or Airflow Problems
Sometimes, strong drafts or airflow issues near the furnace can blow out the flame. This is especially common if there are gaps, broken seals, or improperly installed venting near the furnace.
Proper venting and sealing are critical for furnace operation and indoor air quality. Our technicians at D-N-D Services can assess your system’s venting to make sure everything is installed and sealed correctly.
Conclusion
Regular furnace maintenance helps prevent problems before they start. At D-N-D Services, we offer comprehensive tune-ups and inspections that can extend your system’s life and improve efficiency. If you’ve noticed your furnace struggling to stay lit or other heating issues, reach out today. We’re proud to serve Rockwall, Garland, Dallas, Plano, and many more surrounding communities.
D-N-D Services Heating & Air Conditioning is the premier choice for HVAC services in Rockwall. With a team of highly trained and certified technicians, we have the expertise to handle all of your heating, ventilation, and air conditioning needs. Our commitment to customer satisfaction is unmatched, and we always go above and beyond to ensure that your experience with us is positive. We use only the highest quality parts and equipment to ensure that your HVAC system is running at peak performance. Plus, we offer competitive pricing and flexible scheduling to fit your needs. Choose D-N-D Services Heating & Air Conditioning for all of your HVAC needs in Rockwall.
