Understanding when to replace your furnace gas valve is an essential 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 won’t run properly.

In this blog, Lakeside Heating & Air will share the key signs of a malfunctioning gas valve. Whether you’re trying to diagnose a suspected problem or just want more information about how a furnace works, this guide for Chelan, Washington, homeowners will help you understand when you may need furnace gas valve replacement—and when to contact the professionals at Lakeside Heating & Air.

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

First, it's important to understand what a furnace gas valve is and what it is responsible for. The furnace gas valve controls 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 flow is blocked, a gas-powered furnace won't give off any heat.

Also an important safety feature, the furnace gas valve is engineered to shut if a problem is detected—preventing a potentially life-threatening gas leak. The typical furnace gas valve lifespan is about 10 to 20 years on average. While replacement price depends on the type of furnace and if any additional repairs are needed, replacing a furnace gas valve costs an average of roughly $300–800.

Your Furnace Won't Ignite

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 what fuels the burner. Without enough 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 damaged sensor, a problem with the thermocouple or insufficient fuel supply. If you notice these signs, it's important to call 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 the furnace won't ignite.

Gas Smell Coming from Furnace

One major sign of a broken furnace gas valve is a strong odor of gas coming from your furnace. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance problem—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 reach out to Lakeside Heating & Air 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 rather than turning on and continuing through its cycle as usual. 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 avoid creating a gas leak.

That said, sometimes furnace short cycling is caused by other mechanical issues, so it's important to call a professional HVAC technician for evaluation and possible furnace repair. 

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

If you suspect your furnace gas valve has malfunctioned, it’s critical to take the situation seriously.

First, cut off the gas supply to avoid additional danger, then shut down your furnace. Don’t try to fix the valve without a professional. DIY gas valve repair can pose a safety risk and also has the potential to void your warranty and gas valve coverage. Whether the gas valve is stuck open, closed or has some other issue—gas valve repair isn’t a DIY job. Besides, when it comes to weighing gas valve repair and gas valve replacement, it's almost always recommended to replace a gas valve instead of repairing it. 

Call Lakeside Heating & Air to Be Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the Chelan, Washington, Cold

To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional Chelan, Washington, HVAC company—Lakeside Heating & Air. Our HVAC experts know exactly what to do when it comes to gas valve troubleshooting. We'll diagnose the issue, perform the gas valve replacement safely and ensure your system 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 outdated heating system.

Don’t delay critical repairs. Call 509-300-1829 today for gas valve replacement services from Lakeside Heating & Air.