Many issues can occur with gas heating units. Fortunately, most of them can be repaired without too much difficulty.
This post discusses two of the most common gas heater repair problems and how to fix them.
The Pilot Light Keeps Going Out
The pilot light on a gas heater is a small flame that ignites the burners. This flame is usually located near the bottom of the unit and is kept lit at all times.
If the pilot light keeps going out, it's most likely due to a draft in the room or a problem with the gas line. To fix this problem, start by checking for any drafts in the room and sealing them off. Then, check the gas line for any leaks. If you can't find the source of the problem, call a professional HVAC technician for assistance.
You should also check the thermocouple if you have pilot light issues. The thermocouple is a safety device that senses when the pilot light is lit and tells the gas valve to stay open. If the thermocouple is defective, it could be the reason why your pilot light keeps going out.
There are a few things you can do to fix this problem:
- Adjust the thermocouple so that it's closer to the pilot light.
- Replace the thermocouple if it's defective.
- Clean any dirt or debris from the pilot light.
Another possible cause of a pilot light that keeps going out is a clogged burner. If the burner is clogged, it won't be able to ignite the gas properly. Gas needs air to ignite, and a clogged burner won't allow enough air to flow through.
To clean the burner:
- Remove the burner and soak it in a solution of vinegar and water.
- Scrub the burner with a brush to remove any dirt or debris.
- Rinse the burner off and dry it completely before putting it back in place.
If you still have trouble with your pilot light, call a professional HVAC technician for expert repairs. They can troubleshoot the problem and suggest a solution that will work for your particular unit.
Gas Heater Won't Stay Lit
If your gas heater won't stay lit, the first thing you should check is the gas line. If there is a leak in the gas line, it will need to be repaired before you can use the heater. Once the gas line is fixed, you should be able to use your heater without any problem.
If the gas line isn't the problem, then it's most likely an issue with the burner. As mentioned before, a clogged burner can prevent enough air from flowing through to keep the flame lit. You'll need to clean the burner as described above.
If you still can't get your gas heater to stay lit, you might need to call in a repair professional so they can dig deeper to find the root cause of this problem. Such complicated issues require a professional inspection to resolve properly.