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.
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.
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.
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:
Hillside wind tunnels can push air back through the flue. Adding a draft hood or vent cap usually prevents blowouts.
Yes—follow your furnace’s safety instructions closely and wait five minutes before relighting to avoid gas buildup.
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