Understanding when to replace your furnace gas valve is a critical part of keeping your home safe, cozy and energy smart. The gas valve is an often ignored part of your heating system—however, without it, your furnace simply won’t work.

In this blog, GLR Mechanical will highlight the key signs of a bad gas valve. Whether you’re dealing with issues or just want more information about how a furnace works, this guide for Duryea, Pennsylvania, homeowners will help you understand when you may need furnace gas valve replacement—and when to call the experts at GLR Mechanical.

What is a Furnace Gas Valve and How Long Does It Last?

To start, it's important to learn what a furnace gas valve is and what it is responsible for. The furnace gas valve regulates the flow of natural gas or propane into the unit's burner assembly, allowing the combustion process to occur and produce heat. If gas isn't flowing, a gas-powered furnace won't give off any heat.

Also a beneficial safety feature, the furnace gas valve is supposed to cut off gas flow in the event of a mechanical issue—preventing a potentially deadly gas leak. The typical furnace gas valve lifespan is about 10 to 20 years on average. While replacement price depends on the model of furnace and whether any other components need fixing, replacing a furnace gas valve costs an average of $300 to $800.

Your Furnace Won't Ignite

One of the signs it could be time to replace your furnace gas valve is if the furnace is not igniting or if the pilot light won't light. Gas provides fuel for the flame. Without adequate gas flow through the system, a furnace can't ignite. Sometimes, homeowners also notice that the igniter clicks but there's no flame.

However, a furnace not igniting or a pilot light that won't light or stay lit might also indicate  other mechanical issues, such as a bad flame sensor, a malfunction in the thermocouple or a pressure drop in the gas line. If you notice these signs, it's important to call a certified HVAC technician for an inspection. They'll safely determine whether the problem a thermocouple vs gas valve issue, or if there's another reason the furnace won't ignite.

Gas Smell Coming from Furnace

One major sign of a broken furnace gas valve is a noticeable gas smell coming from your furnace. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance concern—it’s an emergency. A gas leak can cause a fire, explosion or even CO poisoning. If you smell gas, leave the home right away, call your gas company or 911, and then contact GLR Mechanical for emergency furnace repair.

Your Furnace Keeps Starting and Stopping

Faulty gas valve symptoms also include short cycling. Short cycling describes when a furnace starts, but then quickly stops instead of going through its full cycle. This may be because a faulty furnace gas valve can result in inconsistent gas flow. A valve malfunction also could trigger your furnace to power off to avoid creating a gas leak.

However, sometimes furnace short cycling has other causes, so it's important to seek out a licensed furnace specialist for evaluation and possible furnace repair. 

What to Do If You Think Your Furnace Gas Valve Isn't Working?

If you think your furnace gas valve is broken, it’s crucial that you take action immediately.

First, shut off the gas supply to avoid additional danger, then shut down your furnace. Don’t try to fix the valve yourself. DIY gas valve repair can create a deadly gas leak if not done right and also might void your warranty and gas valve coverage. Whether the gas valve is stuck open, closed or isn't working for another reason—gas valve repair isn’t a task for someone without specialized tools and training. In addition, when it comes to deciding between gas valve repair and gas valve replacement, it's usually recommended to replace a gas valve instead of fixing the broken one. 

Call GLR Mechanical to Be Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the Duryea, Pennsylvania, Cold

To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional Duryea, Pennsylvania, HVAC company—GLR Mechanical. Our experienced professionals know exactly what to do when it comes to gas valve troubleshooting. We'll pinpoint what's wrong, handle the gas valve replacement safely and make sure your heating equipment is running smoothly. To save even more power, we can even connect your system with one of our smart thermostats or offer furnace installation service to help you replace your old, unsafe furnace.

Don’t compromise your safety or comfort. Call 570-569-1873 today for gas valve replacement services from GLR Mechanical.