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

A malfunctioning furnace is exhausting to deal with. There are several reasons this may happen, but one of the most likely is a problem with the burners or associated systems.

Newer systems don’t require pilot lights to keep the furnace going. Instead, they work via electronic ignition. If this ignition is damaged, the burners won’t function like they are supposed to.

When your gas furnace is running correctly, here’s how it should run:

    • The thermostat tells your furnace to activate.
    • Your furnace’s draft inducer fan turns on to pull 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 transports gas to the central burners, which are lit by the pilot light.
    • Your furnace then moves warm air into your home via ductwork.

If something malfunctions during this sequence, your furnace will deactivate for safety concerns. Or it might deactivate a few minutes into heating because it’s overheating.

Some of these issues can be fixed on their own, but others require professional assistance. When you need the top furnace repair in the U.S., reach out to our furnace Experts at . We have experience with all brands and our work is ensured 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 moving forward.

1. Malfunctioning Flame Sensor

Your furnace’s flame sensor is a safety component that tells your furnace when gas is ignited. If the sensor is dirty or faulty, it may work inconsistently or not at all. Even if the sensor is working as normal, incorrect positioning leaves it unable to sense the flame at all. While you can attempt troubleshooting and cleaning this sensor right away, contacting a professional like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing will ensure the problem is taken care of quickly and correctly.

2. Furnace is Too Hot

Your furnace has built-in safety procedures that deactivates your furnace if it gets especially hot. One of the most common causes is a filthy filter. We encourage reviewing your air filter every month. If you can’t see light through it, replace it.

3. Thermostat Isn’t Working Right

Your thermostat tells your furnace when it should heat your residence. When it’s not functioning like it should, your furnace will have trouble keeping your house warm. This can be a battery or electrical issue, depending on what kind of thermostat you use. We suggest checking your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for needed troubleshooting instructions. If you still can’t get yours working, call our Experts at . We’ll identify the cause quickly and can replace your thermostat, if necessary.

Some of these issues, such as 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 completed every year, because it might help stop breakdowns, improve your furnace’s energy efficiency and can even make it live longer.

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

can’t work like it’s supposed to regardless of attempts to repair or maintain it. When the time comes, trust Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing and our excellent 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 thinking about replacing your furnace, consider taking advantage of our Advantage Program™. Getting a new furnace can be 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 expenses, and you get to pocket any helpful rebates.

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

Don’t struggle with interruptions to your comfort for a second longer. Give Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing a call at 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.

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.