Understanding when to replace your furnace gas valve is a critical part of keeping your home comfortable, protected and cost-effective. The gas valve is an often overlooked part of your heating system—but without it, your furnace can’t function.
In this blog, Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning will break down the key signs of a broken gas valve. Whether you’re troubleshooting a potential problem or just want more information about how a furnace works, this guide for Thedford, Ontario, homeowners will help you understand when you may need furnace gas valve replacement—and when to call the experts at Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning.
What is a Furnace Gas Valve and How Long Does It Last?
To begin, it's important to know what a furnace gas valve is and what it does. The furnace gas valve regulates the flow of natural gas or propane into the unit's burner assembly, allowing the combustion process to occur and generate heat. If gas can't flow, a gas-powered furnace won't give off any heat.
Also a key safety feature, the furnace gas valve is designed to shut if a problem is detected—preventing a potentially dangerous gas leak. The typical furnace gas valve lifespan is about 10 to 20 years on average. While replacement price varies depending on the type of furnace and whether any additional repairs are needed, replacing a furnace gas valve costs an average of $300 to $800.
Your Furnace Won't Ignite
One of the clues it could be time to replace your furnace gas valve is if the furnace is not igniting or if the pilot light won't light. Gas is the energy source for combustion. Without proper gas flow through the system, a furnace can't ignite. Sometimes, homeowners also report that the igniter clicks but there's no flame.
However, a furnace not igniting or a pilot light that won't light or stay lit might also indicate other mechanical breakdowns, such as a faulty flame sensor, a problem with the thermocouple or insufficient fuel supply. If you notice these signs, it's important to reach out to a certified HVAC technician for an inspection. They'll professionally diagnose whether the problem a thermocouple vs gas valve issue, or if there's another reason your furnace won't light.
Furnace Smells Like Gas
One clear sign of a broken furnace gas valve is a strong odor of gas in your residence. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance issue—it’s an emergency. A gas leak can create a fire, explosion or even carbon monoxide poisoning. If you smell gas, leave the home right away, call your gas company or 911, and then contact Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning for emergency furnace repair.
Furnace Keeps Short Cycling
Faulty gas valve symptoms also include short cycling. Short cycling is when a furnace turns off and on frequently rather than turning on and continuing through its cycle as usual. This is because a faulty furnace gas valve can result in inconsistent gas flow. The valve malfunction also could cause your furnace to turn off to prevent causing a gas leak.
However, sometimes furnace short cycling is the result of different underlying issues, so it's important to seek out a licensed furnace specialist for evaluation and possible furnace repair.
What to Do If Your Furnace Gas Valve Isn't Working?
If you believe your furnace gas valve has malfunctioned, it’s crucial that you take action immediately.
First, shut off the gas supply to prevent any further risk, then cut power to your furnace. Don’t attempt to repair the valve yourself. DIY gas valve repair can create a deadly gas leak if not done right and also has the potential to void your warranty and gas valve coverage. Whether the gas valve is stuck open, closed or isn't working for another reason—gas valve repair isn’t a DIY job. In addition, when it comes to weighing gas valve repair and gas valve replacement, it's usually recommended to replace a gas valve instead of repairing it.
Call Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning to Make Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the Thedford, Ontario, Winter
To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional Thedford, Ontario, HVAC company—Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning. Our trained technicians know exactly what to do when it comes to gas valve troubleshooting. We'll diagnose the issue, handle the gas valve replacement safely and ensure your furnace is running smoothly. To save even more power, we can even match your system with one of our smart thermostats or offer furnace installation service to help you replace your aging, inefficient furnace.
Don’t put your home at risk. Call 519-296-4437 today for gas valve replacement services from Taylor's Heating & Air Conditioning.