3 Reasons Why Your Furnace Isn’t Staying Lit and How to Fix It

A malfunctioning furnace is a hassle to deal with. There are many reasons this might happen, but one of the most frequent is an issue with the burners or related systems.

Newer models don’t count on pilot lights to keep the furnace lit. Instead, they use electronic ignition. If this ignition fails, the burners can’t function like they are supposed to.

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

    • The thermostat tells your furnace to run.
    • Your furnace’s draft inducer fan starts to bring fresh air toward your furnace.
    • The gas valve opens to move gas into the pilot burner.
    • An electronic spark lights the pilot light.
    • The flame sensor informs your furnace that the pilot has been ignited.
    • The gas valve directs gas to the central burners, which are lit by the pilot light.
    • Your furnace then pushes warm air across your house via ductwork.

If something fails during this sequence, your furnace will shut down for safety concerns. Or it might shut down a few minutes into heating because it’s getting too hot.

Some of these malfunctions can be repaired on their own, but others need professional help. When you need the top furnace repair in the U.S., reach out to our heat Experts at . We repair all brands and our service is backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.*

Here are a few of the main reasons why your heater isn’t staying lit and what to do to fix it.

1. Dirty Flame Sensor

Your furnace’s flame sensor is a safety system that informs your furnace when gas is ignited. If the sensor is dirty or faulty, it might work intermittently or not at all. Even if the sensor is operating like it should, incorrect positioning leaves it unable to detect the flame entirely. While you can attempt troubleshooting and cleaning this sensor by yourself, contacting a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing will guarantee the problem is resolved promptly and correctly.

2. Furnace is Too Warm

Your furnace contains built-in safety features that deactivates your furnace if it gets especially hot. One of the most typical causes is a dirty filter. We suggest reviewing your air filter each month. If you can’t see light through it, change it.

3. Thermostat Isn’t Working Right

Your thermostat directs your furnace when it is time to heat your residence. When it’s not functioning normally, your furnace will require more energy to keep your home warm. This can be a battery or electrical issue, depending on what type of thermostat you use. We suggest referring to your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for useful troubleshooting procedures. If you still can’t get yours working, contact our Experts at . We’ll pinpoint the cause right away and can replace your thermostat, if that is required.

A number of these issues, such as a dirty flame sensor or an overheated furnace, are due to a lack of consistent furnace maintenance. It’s extremely helpful to have this service performed once a year, because it might help stop breakdowns, increase your furnace’s energy efficiency and may even make it live longer.

We Have You Covered When It’s Time for Furnace Replacement

Sooner or later work like it’s supposed to regardless of attempts to repair or maintain it. When the time comes, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing and our quality furnace replacement in the U.S.. We offer some of the top furnace brands, like Lennox®, to offer you affordable, energy-efficient heating systems.

When you’re looking into replacing your furnace, consider taking advantage of our Advantage Program™. Replacing a furnace can run thousands of dollars out of pocket. As an Advantage member, you’ll be given a new furnace for just one low monthly fee. There’s no down payment or installation costs, and you get to pocket any helpful rebates.

What’s even better is that Advantage members don’t pay a dime for repairs** or maintenance. If you have a disaster, you’re protected with 24/7 priority service. You’ll also obtain discounts, no sneaky charges and several other benefits.

Don’t struggle with interruptions to your comfort for a moment longer. Give Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing a call at to arrange an appointment now. Whether you are looking for 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.

Savings For You

See All Offers Here >
parts and labor icon

$50 OFF Any Repair

  • Save $50 on a Paid Service
  • Written 100% Satisfaction Guarantee
  • Plus, ask how to save an additional 15% and waive your trip charge!
maintenance icon

$50 OFF HVAC Tune-up Special

There’s no reason to skip your seasonal maintenance that saves energy and helps ensure your air conditioner and heater will work reliably all season long.

  • Regularly $129, now only $79
  • Save up to 30% on energy bills
  • Written Expert Service Guarantee

© 2023 Service Experts, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, and the Service Experts logo and design are registered trademarks of Service Experts LLC and used under license by SE Canada Inc. All Rights Reserved. *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.