The furnace manual lighting procedure is essential for gas furnaces with standing pilot lights or when electronic ignition systems fail. This guide covers safety precautions, step-by-step lighting instructions for different furnace types, troubleshooting common issues, and maintenance tips to ensure safe and efficient operation. Always refer to your specific furnace model's manual and exercise extreme caution when working with gas appliances.
Critical safety measures before attempting to manually light any furnace.
| Precaution | Description |
|---|---|
| Gas smell detection | If you smell gas, do not light furnace - evacuate immediately and call gas company |
| Ventilation check | Ensure area is well-ventilated before proceeding |
| Clear combustible materials | Remove any flammable items near furnace |
| Proper lighting tools | Use long fireplace matches or barbecue lighter only |
| Gas valve location | Know where main gas shutoff valve is located |
| Carbon monoxide detectors | Verify CO detectors are functioning properly |
| Wait time after gas smell | Wait at least 5 minutes if pilot light fails to light |
| No repeated attempts | Do not repeatedly try if pilot won't stay lit |
Essential items required for safe manual furnace lighting.
WARNING! Never use short matches or regular lighters that require putting hands near burners.
Identify key components before beginning lighting procedure.
CAUTION! Ensure power to furnace is on for electronic ignition systems.
Step-by-step instructions for furnaces with standing pilot lights.
Procedures for furnaces with electronic ignition systems.
Hot Surface Ignitor: Turn thermostat to OFF, wait 5 minutes, then turn to HEAT. System should attempt automatic ignition.
Intermittent Pilot: System may have manual override button - consult manufacturer's manual.
Power Cycling: Turn furnace power switch OFF for 30 seconds, then back ON to reset control board.
Addressing problems that may prevent successful manual lighting.
| Problem | Possible Cause | Corrective Action |
|---|---|---|
| Pilot won't light | Gas supply issue | Check main gas valve; ensure gas is flowing to furnace |
| Pilot lights but won't stay lit | Faulty thermocouple | Clean thermocouple tip; ensure proper positioning in flame |
| Gas smell but no ignition | Clogged pilot orifice | Turn gas off and use compressed air to clean pilot assembly |
| Main burners won't ignite | Thermostat issue | Check thermostat settings; replace batteries if wireless |
| Repeated pilot outage | Draft problems | Check venting for obstructions; ensure proper airflow |
Regular maintenance to prevent manual lighting issues.
Tip: Mark calendar for seasonal furnace maintenance.
Situations requiring qualified HVAC technician assistance.
Immediate actions for furnace-related emergencies.
Gas Leak: Do not operate electrical switches - evacuate immediately and call gas company from outside.
Smoke or Fire: Turn off gas supply, use fire extinguisher if safe, call 911.
Carbon Monoxide Alarm: Evacuate immediately, call emergency services, do not re-enter until cleared.
Emergency Shutoff: Know location of main gas shutoff valve and electrical disconnect switch.