Pilot Light Won't Stay Lit?
A pilot light that won't stay lit prevents your boiler from heating. Here's what causes this and when to get help.
Common Causes & Solutions
Dirty Thermocouple
Thermocouple covered in soot or debris, can't sense flame properly.
Faulty Thermocouple
Thermocouple has failed and needs replacement.
Draft or Wind
Draft blowing out pilot light.
Gas Supply Issue
Insufficient gas pressure or intermittent supply.
Pilot Orifice Clogged
Pilot orifice blocked with debris.
Pilot Light Issues in Older Nassau County Homes
Many older homes in Nassau County—particularly in areas like Floral Park, New Hyde Park, and Mineola—still have standing pilot boilers from the 1970s-1990s. While reliable, these older thermocouples typically need replacement every 5-10 years. Consider upgrading to electronic ignition for improved efficiency and reliability.
When to Call a Professional
- Pilot light won't stay lit after relighting
- You smell gas near the boiler
- Flame is yellow or orange instead of blue
- Multiple relighting attempts failed
- Boiler has electronic ignition that's not working
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my pilot light keep going out?
The most common cause is a failing thermocouple—the safety sensor that detects the flame. Other causes include drafts, gas supply issues, or a dirty pilot orifice. A thermocouple replacement typically costs $200-$350.
Is it safe to relight the pilot myself?
Yes, for standing pilot boilers, relighting is generally safe if you follow the manufacturer's instructions exactly. However, if you smell gas or the pilot won't stay lit, turn off the gas and call a professional.
Should I upgrade from a standing pilot to electronic ignition?
Electronic ignition eliminates the pilot light entirely, saving $30-$50/year in gas costs. If your boiler is otherwise in good condition, an ignition upgrade costs $400-$800 and pays for itself in 8-15 years.
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