Quick Answer
If your furnace pilot light won’t stay lit, turn the gas control knob to “Off,” wait five minutes, then relight on “Pilot.” If the flame keeps going out, it may indicate a dirty thermocouple, weak gas flow, or a draft near the burner. In Steubenville’s hillside homes, shifting airflow often adds to the problem.
Why This Matters for Steubenville Homes
Homeowners across Steubenville—especially near Pleasant Heights, Brady Estates, and Franciscan University—depend on gas furnaces for consistent winter warmth. The city’s steep hills and Ohio River winds can cause brief drafts that snuff out pilot lights. In newer homes with sealed systems, ignition reliability is better, but older units in basement utility rooms remain vulnerable to pilot issues each season.
Common Causes of Pilot Light Failures
Pilot lights often fail due to buildup or component wear, but Steubenville’s terrain makes certain issues more common. Homes along University Boulevard and steep side streets can experience backdrafting through vent pipes. Dust and rust inside older furnaces weaken the pilot flame, and a misaligned thermocouple can cut off gas even when the light appears steady. A yellow flame usually signals contamination or improper air mix.
Repair and Prevention Tips for Local Systems
Most pilot light repairs in Steubenville cost between $100 and $250, including cleaning or thermocouple replacement. If your system is over 15 years old, ignition or valve repairs can reach $600 or more. Honest Fix technicians inspect for carbon monoxide risk and flue performance during every visit. To prevent repeat outages, consider the following:
- Seal basement vents and address draft sources near the furnace.
- Replace aging sensors (thermocouple or flame sensor) as needed.
- Schedule fall maintenance before the first frost in the valley.
FAQs
Why does my pilot go out on windy nights near Brady Estates?
Hillside wind tunnels can push air back through the flue. Adding a draft hood or vent cap usually prevents blowouts.
Can I relight the pilot myself?
Yes—follow your furnace’s safety instructions closely and wait five minutes before relighting to avoid gas buildup.
Should newer Pleasant Heights homes still need annual checks?
Yes. Even electronic ignition systems use flame sensors that require yearly inspection to ensure safe, consistent operation.
Exact HVAC replacement quotes: (740) 825-9408 or HonestFix.com/schedule-service.
Author: Alex Largent
Alex Largent
Alex Largent is the Owner and Senior HVAC Efficiency Analyst at Honest Fix Heating, Cooling & Plumbing. With more than 20 years of field experience, NATE and EPA certifications, and a hands-on leadership style, Alex teaches his team to fix systems right the first time — with transparency, precision, and no upsells. He writes about HVAC diagnostics, home energy efficiency, and practical maintenance advice for homeowners across the Upper Ohio Valley. Read Alex Largent's full bio at "honestfix.com/about/alex-largent" to learn more about his expertise in the HVAC/Plumbing Industry. Updated October 2025
