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

A malfunctioning furnace is exhausting to put up with. There are lots of reasons this may happen, but one of the most likely is an issue with the burners or related components.

Newer models don’t rely on pilot lights to keep the furnace ignited. Instead, they use electronic ignition. If this ignition malfunctions, the burners will not function like they should.

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

    • The thermostat informs your furnace to run.
    • Your furnace’s draft inducer fan begins to spin in order to bring fresh air into your furnace.
    • The gas valve opens to direct gas into the pilot burner.
    • An electronic spark starts the pilot light.
    • The flame sensor tells your furnace that the pilot has been ignited.
    • The gas valve transports gas to the primary burners, which are lit by the pilot light.
    • Your furnace then pushes warm air into your home via ductwork.

If something breaks down during this procedure, your furnace will shut down for safety purposes. Or it might shut down a few minutes into heating because it’s too warm.

Some of these issues can be resolved on their own, but others require professional servicing. When you need the finest furnace repair in the U.S., reach out to our furnace Experts at . We work with all brands and our work is ensured by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.*

Here are several of the main reasons why your heating isn’t staying lit and what to do about 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 damaged, it could work intermittently or not at all. Even if the sensor is functioning like it should, incorrect positioning leaves it unable to sense the flame to begin with. While you can start troubleshooting and cleaning this sensor right away, contacting a pro like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing will ensure the problem is handled promptly and correctly.

2. Furnace is Too Hot

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

3. Thermostat Isn’t Working Right

Your thermostat commands your furnace when it needs to heat your home. When it’s not operating correctly, your furnace will have trouble keeping your home warm. This can be a battery or electrical issue, depending on what type of thermostat you have. We suggest referring to your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for useful troubleshooting information. If you still can’t get yours working, call our Experts at . We’ll discover the cause right away and can replace your thermostat, if necessary.

Several of these issues, including a dirty flame sensor or an overheated furnace, are a result of a lack of proper furnace maintenance. It’s vital to have this service completed annually, because it can help reduce breakdowns, enhance your furnace’s energy efficiency and can even make it survive longer.

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

With enough time work like it should regardless of attempts to repair or maintain it. When the time comes, reach out to Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing and our top-notch furnace replacement in the U.S.. We partner with 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 enrolling in our Advantage Program™. Getting a new furnace can cost you thousands of dollars out of pocket. As an Advantage member, you’ll receive a new furnace for just one low monthly fee. There’s no down payment or installation costs, and you get to hold on to any helpful 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 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 schedule an appointment right away. Whether you want 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 >

$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!

$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.