How to Fix a Furnace That Wont Stay Lit

A faulty furnace is exhausting to handle. There are lots of reasons this may happen, but one of the most frequent is an issue with the burners or related parts.

Newer systems don’t use pilot lights to keep the furnace going. Instead, they work via electronic ignition. If this ignition malfunctions, the burners will not work like they are supposed to.

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

  • The thermostat informs your furnace to turn on.
  • Your furnace’s draft inducer fan starts to bring fresh air through your furnace.
  • The gas valve opens to send gas into the pilot burner.
  • An electronic spark lights the pilot light.
  • The flame sensor directs your furnace that the pilot has been ignited.
  • The gas valve sends gas to the main burners, which are lit by the pilot light.
  • Your furnace then provides warm air throughout your residence via ductwork.

If something breaks down during this sequence, your furnace will stop for safety reasons. Or it might stop a few minutes into heating because it’s overheating.

A number of of these problems can be repaired on their own, but others need professional assistance. When you want the top furnace repair in Knoxville, call our heating Experts at 865-229-6176. We work with all brands and our work is ensured by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.*

Here are several of the most common reasons why your heater isn’t staying lit and what to do moving forward.

1. Malfunctioning Flame Sensor

Your furnace’s flame sensor is a safety feature that informs your furnace when gas is ignited. If the sensor is dirty or malfunctioning, it could work intermittently or not at all. Even if the sensor is functioning like it should, poor positioning leaves it unable to recognize the flame entirely. While you can start troubleshooting and cleaning this sensor by yourself, hiring an expert like R & M Climate Control Service Experts will ensure the problem is taken care of quickly and correctly.

2. Overheated Furnace

Your furnace utilizes built-in safety procedures that force a shutdown if it gets dangerously hot. One of the most common causes is a clogged filter. We recommend inspecting your air filter each month. If you can’t see light through it, replace it.

3. Thermostat Malfunction

Your thermostat informs your furnace when it needs to heat your house. When it’s not running correctly, your furnace will require more energy to keep your residence warm. This can be a battery or electrical issue, depending on what type of thermostat you use. We encourage checking your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for specific troubleshooting procedures. If you still can’t get yours working, get in touch with our Experts at 865-229-6176. We’ll identify the problem swiftly and can replace your thermostat, if needed.

Some of these issues, including 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 performed annually, because it could help reduce breakdowns, enhance your furnace’s energy efficiency and can even make it last longer.

We Have You In Good Hands 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, reach out to R & M Climate Control Service Experts and our quality furnace replacement in Knoxville. We offer some of the top furnace brands, including Lennox®, to offer you affordable, energy-efficient heating equipment.

When you’re looking into replacing your furnace, consider signing up for our Advantage Program™. Replacing a furnace can run thousands of dollars out of pocket. As an Advantage member, you’ll receive a new furnace for just one affordable monthly fee. There’s no down payment or installation charges, and you get to keep any valuable rebates.

What’s even better is that Advantage members don’t pay a penny for repairs** or maintenance. If disaster hits, you’re guaranteed a fast response with 24/7 priority service. You’ll also enjoy discounts, no hidden charges and several other benefits.

Don’t fret about interruptions to your comfort for a minute longer. Give R & M Climate Control Service Experts a call at 865-229-6176 to schedule an appointment now. Whether you need 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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