Concord furnaces that rely on a pilot light use a small flame to ignite the burner when heat is needed. While many modern systems use electronic ignition, older Concord models may still employ a standing pilot that requires periodic maintenance. A malfunctioning pilot light is a common heating issue in colder months, leading to a cold home and frustration. This guide explains how a Concord furnace pilot light works, how to light it safely, typical problems and fixes, maintenance tips, and guidance on when to call a professional for service.
Understanding The Concord Furnace Pilot Light
The pilot light is a compact flame kept burning at the gas valve to ignite the main burner. Some Concord furnaces use a standing pilot, while newer models use a safe electronic ignition that lights the burner when heat is demanded. In older units, the pilot flame should be a steady, blue flame with a slight yellow tip. A healthy pilot ensures reliable ignition and steady burner operation. If the flame is weak or extinguishes, ignition can fail and heat will not flow.
Key indicators of a healthy pilot include a stable blue flame, no hiss or flutter, and a steady flame when heat is required. A yellow or flickering flame can indicate incomplete combustion or a draft, and may pose safety risks. Regular inspection helps prevent carbon monoxide risks and excessive fuel use in Concord furnaces.
Lighting The Pilot On A Concord Furnace
Before starting, ensure the gas and electrical power are off. If you detect a gas odor, do not attempt to light the pilot; leave the area and contact the gas company immediately.
- Access the furnace by removing the front panel to reach the gas control valve and pilot assembly.
- Turn the gas valve to OFF and wait 5–10 minutes to clear any accumulated gas.
- Rotate the control knob to PILOT, then depress and hold the reset button (or knob) while lighting the pilot with a long-reach lighter or the built-in igniter.
- Maintain the flame by continuing to hold for 30–60 seconds after lighting, then release and turn the knob to ON. If the main burner lights, replace the panel.
- Set the thermostat to heat and verify the pilot remains lit when heat is demanded. If the flame goes out, repeat once or twice. If it fails again, shut off power and gas and contact a professional.
Common Pilot Light Problems And Causes
Common issues include a pilot that won’t light, a flame that goes out, or a flame that is yellow or flickering. Causes include a dirty or misaligned thermocouple, a clogged pilot orifice, insufficient gas pressure, or a faulty gas valve. Drafts around the furnace or venting problems can also cause the pilot to extinguish. In modern Concord units with electronic ignition, a sensor or control board fault can prevent ignition even if the pilot is clean.
Regular maintenance helps detect these issues early. If the flame remains blue and steady but the furnace still won’t heat, the problem may lie with the thermostat or control circuit rather than the pilot itself.
Troubleshooting Quick Fixes For Concord Furnaces
- Check the thermostat setting to ensure it is calling for heat and that the anticipator is not stuck.
- Inspect and replace a dirty air filter, as restricted airflow can affect combustion and ignition.
- Ensure the area around the furnace is free of drafts, debris, or obstructions that could pull the flame out.
- Confirm the gas supply is on and that there are no damaged gas lines or valves.
- Reset the furnace according to the owner’s manual by cycling power off for 30 seconds and back on, then attempt to light the pilot again.
Maintenance And Safety Tips For Pilot Light Furnaces
Schedule an annual professional inspection of a Concord furnace to examine the pilot assembly, thermocouple, burner, and gas valve for wear or corrosion. Clean the pilot orifice if accessible and replace a dirty or faulty thermocouple; typical replacement intervals are every 3–5 years depending on usage and maintenance. Replace air filters regularly, usually every 1–3 months, and ensure proper ventilation to prevent carbon monoxide buildup. Install working carbon monoxide detectors on every floor near sleeping areas and test them monthly.
Electronic Ignition Versus Standing Pilot In Concord Furnaces
Many newer Concord models use an electronic ignition instead of a constantly burning pilot. The main advantages include higher energy efficiency, reduced fuel consumption, and lower risk from a standing pilot flame. However, standing pilots can be simpler to diagnose for some homeowners and may operate during certain power-outage scenarios. When considering retrofit or replacement, weigh energy savings, system compatibility, and installation costs.
When To Call A Professional For A Concord Furnace Pilot Light
If a gas odor is detected, evacuate the area and contact the gas company immediately. If the pilot lights but then goes out repeatedly after lighting, or the burner fails to ignite despite following the steps above, a licensed HVAC technician should diagnose ignition components, the thermocouple, gas valve, venting, and gas pressure. If any step feels uncertain or the unit is under warranty, contact the manufacturer’s support line for guidance and service options.