Knowing when to replace your furnace gas valve is an essential part of keeping your home safe, warm and energy efficient. The gas valve is an often overlooked part of your heating system—but without it, your furnace simply won’t work.

In this blog, Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning will share the key signs of a malfunctioning gas valve. Whether you’re dealing with issues or planning ahead, this guide for Winnipeg, Manitoba, homeowners will help you recognize the need for furnace gas valve replacement—and when to contact the professionals at Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning.

What is a Furnace Gas Valve and What Does It Do?

To begin, it's important to learn what a furnace gas valve is and what it controls. The furnace gas valve manages the flow of natural gas or propane into the unit's burner assembly, enabling the combustion process to occur and generate heat. If gas can't flow, a gas-powered furnace is unable to warm your home.

Also an important safety feature, the furnace gas valve is supposed to close automatically when an issue arises—preventing a potentially deadly gas leak. The typical furnace gas valve lifespan is about 10–20 years. Though replacement price can change based on the kind of furnace and if any additional repairs are needed, replacing a furnace gas valve costs an average of between $300 and $800.

The Furnace Won't Light

One of the indications 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 is the energy source for combustion. Without proper 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 low gas pressure. If you notice these signs, it's important to contact 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 your furnace won't start or the pilot light won't stay lit.

Gas Leak

One clear sign of a malfunctioning furnace gas valve is a noticeable gas smell in your residence. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance problem—it’s an potentially deadly hazard. A gas leak can create a fire, explosion or even CO poisoning. If you smell gas, get everyone out of the building quickly, call your gas company or 911, and then contact Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning for emergency furnace repair.

Your Furnace Keeps Starting and Stopping

Faulty gas valve symptoms also include short cycling. Short cycling is when a furnace turns off and on frequently rather than turning on and continuing through its cycle as usual. This might be occurring because a faulty furnace gas valve can cause inconsistent gas flow. A valve malfunction also could trigger your furnace to shut down to prevent causing a gas leak.

That said, 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 If You Think Your Furnace Gas Valve Isn't Working?

If you think your furnace gas valve isn’t working properly, it’s important to act quickly and safely.

First, turn off the gas supply to prevent any further risk, then shut down your furnace. Don’t try to repair the valve yourself. DIY gas valve repair can create a deadly gas leak if not done right and also could 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. Plus, 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 Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning to Make Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the Winnipeg, Manitoba, Winter

To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional Winnipeg, Manitoba, HVAC company—Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning. Our HVAC experts know just what to do when it comes to gas valve troubleshooting. We'll diagnose the issue, handle the gas valve replacement safely and make sure your heating equipment is running efficiently again. 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 put your home at risk. Call 204-813-7767 today for gas valve replacement services from Kirkfield Heating & Air Conditioning.