Knowing 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—and without it, your furnace can’t function.

In this blog, Anderson Heating & A/C will break down the key signs of a bad gas valve. Whether you’re dealing with issues or planning ahead, this guide for Carson City, Nevada, homeowners will help you recognize the need for furnace gas valve replacement—and when to contact the professionals at Anderson Heating & A/C.

What is a Furnace Gas Valve and Why is It Important?

To start, it's important to learn what a furnace gas valve is and what it is responsible for. The furnace gas valve manages the flow of natural gas or propane into the unit's burner assembly, providing the fuel necessary for the combustion process to occur and produce heat. If gas can't flow, a gas-powered furnace can't make any heat.

Also an important safety feature, the furnace gas valve is supposed to cut off gas flow in the event of a mechanical issue—preventing a potentially dangerous gas leak. A typical furnace gas valve lifespan is about 10–20 years. Though replacement price depends on the model of furnace and if any other service is required, replacing a furnace gas valve costs an average of $300 to $800.

The Furnace Won't Light

One of the signs you may need to replace your furnace gas valve is if the furnace is not igniting or if the pilot light won't light. Gas is the energy source for combustion. Without adequate gas flow through the system, a furnace can't ignite. Occasionally, homeowners also hear 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 problem with the thermocouple or insufficient fuel supply. If you notice these signs, it's important to contact a certified HVAC technician for an inspection. They'll accurately assess whether the problem a thermocouple vs gas valve issue, or if there's another reason your furnace won't start or the pilot light won't stay lit.

Gas Smell Coming from Furnace

One clear sign of a broken furnace gas valve is a noticeable gas smell in your residence. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance issue—it’s an emergency. A gas leak can cause a fire, explosion or even CO poisoning. If you smell gas, evacuate the home immediately, call your gas company or 911, and then contact Anderson Heating & A/C for emergency furnace repair.

Furnace Keeps Short Cycling

Faulty gas valve symptoms also include short cycling. Short cycling is when a furnace runs in short bursts instead of running a full cycle. This may be because a faulty furnace gas valve can result in inconsistent gas flow. The valve malfunction also could force your furnace to turn off to prevent creating a gas leak.

At the same time, sometimes furnace short cycling is the result of different underlying issues, so it's important to reach out to a licensed furnace specialist for evaluation and possible furnace repair. 

What to Do When Your Furnace Gas Valve Isn't Working?

If you believe your furnace gas valve is broken, it’s important to act quickly and safely.

First, shut off the gas supply to stop the flow of gas, then turn off your furnace. Don’t attempt to repair the valve on your own. DIY gas valve repair can create a deadly gas leak if not done right and also may void your warranty and gas valve coverage. Whether the gas valve is stuck open, closed or isn't working for another reason—gas valve work isn’t a task for someone without specialized tools and training. Besides, 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 it. 

Call Anderson Heating & A/C to Make Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the Carson City, Nevada, Cold

To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional Carson City, Nevada, HVAC company—Anderson Heating & A/C. Our trained technicians know just what to do when it comes to gas valve troubleshooting. We'll identify the problem, perform the gas valve replacement safely and make sure your heating equipment is running smoothly. To save even more power, we can even pair your system with one of our smart thermostats or connect you with furnace installation service to help you replace your old, unsafe furnace.

Don’t put your home at risk. Call 775-577-8761 today for gas valve replacement services from Anderson Heating & A/C.