Quick Answer
If your furnace pilot light keeps going out, first turn the gas control knob to “Off” and wait five minutes before relighting. If it won’t stay lit, you may be dealing with low gas pressure, a dirty thermocouple, or a draft from return vents. These are common issues in Wintersville’s split-level and ranch-style homes built in the 1980s and 1990s.
Why This Matters for Wintersville Homes
Wintersville’s growing neighborhoods—from Fernwood Estates to the areas near Indian Creek High School—rely heavily on natural gas furnaces through AEP Ohio and Columbia Gas. The mix of newer construction and older basement mechanical rooms creates different pilot light challenges. Homes near Two Ridge Road and Bantam Ridge Road often have partially finished basements where loose duct seams or unsealed vents let in cold air that extinguishes the pilot flame.
Typical Causes of Pilot Light Failure
Most pilot issues start small—dust in the pilot tube, corrosion on the thermocouple, or mild gas pressure drops after cold snaps. In Wintersville, utility pressure fluctuations during peak demand hours can make pilot flames unstable. Split-level homes are especially vulnerable to negative pressure, where upper-level exhaust fans pull air down the flue and blow out the pilot. A steady blue flame indicates good combustion; yellow or fluttering flames suggest buildup or misalignment.
Repair and Maintenance Tips for Wintersville Homeowners
Typical pilot light repairs in Wintersville range from $120 to $250 for cleaning or thermocouple replacement. Honest Fix technicians also inspect gas valves, flue alignment, and CO safety. For prevention, homeowners should:
- Schedule a fall tune-up before cold weather arrives.
- Replace old or corroded flame sensors and thermocouples.
- Keep furnace areas clean and free of dust or debris.
- Seal attic bypasses and balance airflow between levels to reduce drafts—especially in homes near Wintersville Heights.
FAQs
Why does my pilot light go out more often during cold snaps?
Cold weather increases gas demand, slightly reducing pressure, which weakens pilot flames. A professional can adjust or clean the pilot assembly for stability.
Do newer high-efficiency furnaces still have pilot lights?
Most modern units use electronic ignition, but even those systems have flame sensors that should be inspected annually.
Can uneven room temperatures cause pilot issues?
Yes. Unbalanced airflow in multi-level homes can create drafts around the furnace, disrupting pilot stability.
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
