Understanding 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, Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc will break down the key signs of a malfunctioning gas valve. Whether you’re trying to diagnose a suspected problem or planning ahead, this guide for Phoenix, Arizona, homeowners will help you understand when you may need furnace gas valve replacement—and when to contact the professionals at Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc.

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

To start, it's important to understand 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 is unable to warm your home.

Also a key safety feature, the furnace gas valve is supposed 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. Though replacement price varies depending 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 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 what fuels the burner. Without enough gas flow through the system, a furnace can't ignite. Occasionally, homeowners also report 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 can sometimes be symptoms of  other mechanical issues, such as a damaged sensor, a problem with the thermocouple or a pressure drop in the gas line. If you experience these problems, 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 your furnace won't start or the pilot light won't stay lit.

Furnace Smells Like Gas

One major sign of a malfunctioning furnace gas valve is a noticeable gas smell in your home. This isn’t just a furnace maintenance concern—it’s an emergency. A gas leak can create a fire, explosion or even carbon monoxide poisoning. If you smell gas, evacuate the home immediately, call your gas company or 911, and then reach out to Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc for emergency furnace repair.

Your Furnace Keeps Starting and Stopping

Faulty gas valve symptoms also include short cycling. Short cycling describes 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. A valve failure also could trigger your furnace to power off to avoid causing a gas leak.

At the same time, sometimes furnace short cycling is caused by other mechanical issues, so it's important to call a qualified heating expert for evaluation and possible furnace repair. 

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

If you think your furnace gas valve isn’t working properly, it’s crucial that you take action immediately.

First, cut off the gas supply to stop the flow of gas, then shut down your furnace. Don’t try to fix the valve without a professional. DIY gas valve repair can result in dangerous situations if done incorrectly and also has the potential to void your warranty and gas valve coverage. Whether the gas valve is stuck open, closed or malfunctioning in some other way—gas valve work isn’t a good do-it-yourself task. 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 Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc to Make Sure Your Furnace is Ready for the Phoenix, Arizona, Winter

To replace your furnace gas valve safely, contact the professional Phoenix, Arizona, HVAC company—Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc. Our experienced professionals know exactly what to do when it comes to gas valve troubleshooting. We'll diagnose the issue, handle the gas valve replacement safely and ensure your furnace is running smoothly. To save even more power, we can even pair your system with one of our smart thermostats or offer furnace installation service to help you replace your aging, inefficient furnace.

Don’t delay critical repairs. Call 602-584-2884 today for gas valve replacement services from Dial One Mears Air Conditioning & Heating Inc.