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

A damaged furnace is exhausting to put up with. There are many reasons this may happen, but one of the most frequent is an issue with the burners or associated systems. 

Newer systems don’t use pilot lights to keep the furnace going. Instead, they utilize electronic ignition. If this ignition is damaged, the burners can’t function like they should. 

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

  • The thermostat directs your furnace to run. 
  • Your furnace’s draft inducer fan begins to spin in order to draw fresh air toward your furnace. 
  • The gas valve opens to move gas into the pilot burner. 
  • An electronic spark starts the pilot light. 
  • The flame sensor informs your furnace that the pilot has been ignited. 
  • The gas valve moves gas to the primary burners, which are lit by the pilot light. 
  • Your furnace then transports warm air into your house via ductwork. 

If something fails during this sequence, your furnace will shut down for safety concerns. Or it might stop a few minutes into heating because it’s getting too hot. 

Several of these problems can be resolved on their own, but others need professional servicing. When you want the top furnace repair in Canada, contact our heat Experts at 866-397-3787. We service all brands and our services are supported 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 to fix it. 

1. Faulty Flame Sensor 

Your furnace’s flame sensor is a safety component that informs your furnace when gas is ignited. If the sensor is dirty or damaged, it could work inconsistently or not at all. Even if the sensor is functioning as normal, incorrect positioning leaves it unable to recognize the flame entirely. While you could attempt troubleshooting and cleaning this sensor by yourself, hiring a pro like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing will guarantee the problem is resolved swiftly and correctly. 

2. Furnace is Too Hot 

Your furnace uses built-in safety functions that force a shutdown if it gets especially hot. One of the most frequent causes is a clogged filter. We suggest evaluating your air filter each month. If you can’t see light through it, change it. 

3. Thermostat is Malfunctioning 

Your thermostat directs your furnace when it is time to heat your house. When it’s not functioning correctly, your furnace will struggle to keep your house warm. This can be a battery or electrical problem, depending on what model of thermostat you own. We suggest checking your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for relevant troubleshooting procedures. If you still can’t get yours working, contact our Experts at 866-397-3787. We’ll identify the cause swiftly and can replace your thermostat, if needed. 

Several of these issues, including a dirty flame sensor or an overheated furnace, are caused by a lack of proper furnace maintenance. It’s crucial to have this service completed yearly, because it might help minimize breakdowns, enhance your furnace’s energy efficiency and might even make it survive longer. 

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

With enough time, your furnace cannot work like it should regardless of attempts to repair or maintain it. When the time comes, call Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing and our expert furnace replacement in Canada. We work with some of the number one furnace brands, like Lennox®, to offer you affordable, energy-efficient heating equipment. 

When you’re thinking about replacing your furnace, consider signing up for our Advantage Program™. Getting a new furnace can run thousands of dollars out of pocket. As an Advantage member, you’ll receive a new furnace for just one small monthly fee. There’s no down payment or installation costs, and you get to pocket any helpful rebates. 

What’s even better is that Advantage members don’t pay a dime for repairs** or maintenance. If disaster hits, you’re supported with 24/7 priority service. You’ll also receive discounts, no last-minute charges and lots of other benefits. 

Don’t worry about interruptions to your comfort for a moment longer. Give Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing a call at 866-397-3787 to request an appointment now. Whether you want 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. 

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© 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.